Maritime workers play a vital role in our everyday lives and our economy at large. Remember that much of the world’s food, fuel, manufactured goods, and raw materials are delivered by sea. This is a profession that can be dangerous for those working in it. We often come across horror stories of seamen getting injured in their line of work. But when that happens, seamen may be entitled to compensation in case of an accident.
As an industry, seafaring is often overlooked by international organizations and state regulations. Work with a St. Charles Parish maritime injury lawyer who knows what you’re up against.
Have a St. Charles Parish Maritime Injury Lawyer On Your Side
At the law offices of Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, we understand how difficult it can be to deal with maritime accidents. We provide legal representation to seamen who have suffered severe injuries due to negligence by employers in the maritime industry.
This can include:
- Death
- Serious brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burns
- Severe cuts and lacerations
- Broken bones
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
Common equipment like cranes and forklifts require special training and protocols to be used safely. After your accident, try to recall if any pertinent safety protocols weren’t being followed at the time, and make sure to tell your attorney.
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Know the Federal Laws that Protect You And Provide Benefits
The Jones Act
Passed in the early 20th century, the Jones Act allowed injured mariners to sue their employers for damages under certain circumstances.
The Jones Act states that “Any seaman who shall suffer personal injury in the course of his employment may, at his election, maintain an action for damages at law, with the right of trial by jury, and in such action, all statutes of the United States modifying or extending the common-law right or remedy in cases of personal injury to railway employees shall apply.” This means that if you were injured while working aboard a ship or oil rig, you might be able to file a lawsuit against your employer.
To qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, you must work onboard a navigable, seafaring vessel, and spend at least 30% of your time on the ship. You must also file your injury claim within three years of the date of your accident.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)
The LHWCA covers all kinds of injuries, including those caused by occupational diseases. It can pay for medical treatment and rehabilitation. It may also pay for survivors’ benefits if an injured worker dies. If you were injured while working on a vessel, oil platform, or other floating structure, you might be eligible for compensation through the LSHWCA. You must meet several requirements before being qualified, but you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses and disability payments if you do qualify.
The LHWCA covers maritime workers who aren’t considered seamen and don’t qualify for the Jones Act. You may qualify to file under the LHWCA if you work near or adjacent to navigable water. This can include dock workers, shipbuilders and repairers, oil rig workers, and shipping terminal workers.
Under the LHWCA, a claim must be submitted within one year of the date of the accident, and a report of the accident must be given to your employer within 30 days.
Negligence From the Crew
If you have been hurt onboard a ship or oil rig because of the fault of another person, you may also be able to recover damages from them. However, this depends on whether the other party was negligent. Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care towards you.
Here are some examples of what negligence can look like on a ship:
- The owner failed to provide safe equipment or a safe workplace
- Cargo was improperly or carelessly loaded
- No signs were hung to warn you about a dangerous or slippery location
If you believe you’ve been harmed, a lawyer can help.
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How a Maritime Injury Lawyer Serving St. Charles Parish Can Help
A maritime lawyer is an attorney who specializes in representing people who have suffered an injury at sea. The marine industry includes commercial shipping to fishing boats, cruise ships, and offshore drilling rigs.
Benefits of working with a maritime lawyer:
- We know how to navigate the legal system and can guide you through it.
- We understand the unique risks of maritime careers and can advise you on dealing with liability issues.
- We can help you determine whether you are eligible for compensation under the LHWCA.
The maritime industry has its own rules and regulations governing safety practices and procedures. The most important rule is that all parties must act responsibly and safely. When a company or individual violates this rule, it is considered negligent. As a victim, you can sue the responsible party—and we’re here to help.
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Who Will Pay for My Legal Fees?
Our office operates on a contingency basis. So, you have no upfront costs or fees, and we take our percentage from your financial award. To put it simply, we don’t get paid unless you do.
Get The HelpYou Need(337) 777-7777To Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION
24 hours a day • 7 days a week
Call a St. Charles Parish Laborde Earles Injury Lawyer Today!
If the negligence of another person has injured you, we can help. Contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation. Call (504) 777-7777. We will review your situation and explain what steps we can take to navigate your claim.
Get The HelpYou Need(337) 777-7777To Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION
24 hours a day • 7 days a week
