Working in the maritime industry comes with a host of risks. While it can be thrilling work and often pays well, there’s always the possibility that you could be involved in an accident or injured at sea, working construction on a ship, or even loading cargo in a harbor.
If you’re a Metairie maritime worker who has been hurt at work, we can help. A Metairie maritime injury lawyer can handle every step of your injury claim or lawsuit from start to finish so you can focus on getting rest and recovering from your injuries.
Types of Maritime Accidents and Their Causes
Many different kinds of accidents can happen in the maritime industry, whether you’re working as an engineer aboard a vessel or moving cargo at a loading dock. These accidents can range from minor to catastrophic, but all have the potential to cause injuries. Some of the most common maritime accidents and causes can include:
- Collisions
- Oil spills
- Poor visibility
- Equipment failure
- Improper maintenance of ship parts or equipment
- Lack of proper training for new crew members
- Slips and falls
- Falling overboard
- Lack of safety gear
- Lack of adherence to safety protocols
- Missing safety signs
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Common Maritime Injuries
When maritime accidents occur, injuries are sure to follow. These injuries can range from minor cuts to broken bones and even death. Here are some of the common maritime injuries we see:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Joint dislocation
- Arthritis and repetitive motion injuries
- Head trauma and concussions
- Spinal cord damage
- Chemical burns
- Hypothermia and frostbite
- Lost limbs
- Respiratory illness
- Inflammation and nerve damage
When you are seriously injured, you could require extensive, costly medical care. A Metairie maritime injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation for this treatment.
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What Should I Do After a Metairie Maritime Injury?
Although the days following a maritime accident can be a blur, a few actions will be crucial to your health and your injury claim:
- Seek medical attention: Get your injuries checked out as soon as possible, and keep copies of all medical documents and bills.
- Notify your employer: For any injury claim to proceed, you must report the accident to your employer.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, write down the details you can remember, and get contact info from eyewitnesses. If you are unable, your lawyer can do this for you.
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The Jones Act
The Jones Act was enacted to give seamen a chance to sue their employers for compensation following an off-shore injury. To be considered a seaman, you must work aboard a navigable vessel and spend more than 30% of your time on the ship. You must be able to prove that your injury was caused by the negligence of your employer or another member of the crew.
If you meet these requirements, you may be able to sue for damages for your injuries. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In addition, If a seaman is killed as the result of an injury, their family may be able to claim survivor’s benefits, including a portion of their pay and even funeral expenses. A Metairie maritime injury lawyer can gently guide you through the whole case at this difficult time.
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The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
If you aren’t considered a seaman under the Jones Act, you may file injury claims under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). The LHWCA covers dock workers, harbor workers, shipbuilders, oil rig workers, and shipping terminal employees.
A maritime injury lawyer serving the Metairie area can help you know which legal path would be best for you.
Deadlines to File
Under the Jones Act, you must file your lawsuit within three years of the accident, and you must report the accident to your employer within seven days. Under the LHWCA, you have up to one year to file your injury claim, and you must report the injury to your employer within 30 days.
How Can a Metairie Maritime Injury Lawyer Help?
At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, our maritime attorneys have years of experience handling maritime claims. We’re ready to guide you through the process. A lawyer from our firm could:
- Review any contracts you’ve signed with your employer
- Review insurance documents and help you know what to sign
- Speak to eyewitnesses who can provide statements
- Negotiate with insurance agents and your employer’s attorneys
- Determine the liability of the parties involved
- Review records, including medical reports, police reports, ship logs
- Study the evidence to build your case
- Prepare you and your case for court
It can be overwhelming trying to file a claim alone, and there’s a lot that can go wrong if you aren’t well-versed in maritime law. Having a legal team by your side can be a huge relief. Our Metairie lawyers know what to expect and can guide you every step of the way, starting with your free consultation.
Can I Afford a Maritime Injury Lawyer in Metairie?
Our lawyers understand that unexpected injuries mean unexpected medical bills. This financial stress can be increased if you had to take time off of work to recover. That’s just one of the reasons our team works on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs or fees, and you only pay if we win. In fact, if we win and you receive compensation, your lawyers will simply take their fees out of a percentage of your total settlement package.
Call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Today!
If you’re a maritime worker or seaman and have been hurt at work, let us handle your injury claim or lawsuit. We can do the work of your case while you rest and focus on healing from your injuries. Contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation.
Get The HelpYou Need(337) 777-7777To Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION
24 hours a day • 7 days a week
