Admiralty law is a body of laws that govern matters related to shipping, vessels, and oceanic issues. It includes both U.S. and international laws. Also referred to as maritime law, admiralty law covers matters that happen out at sea as well as on certain lakes and rivers.
If you were injured at sea and have questions about your legal rights, you can speak to a lawyer from our firm. Admiralty law is a unique area of the law, and there are many considerations to take into account if you decide to pursue compensation for maritime injuries.
Accidents Covered Under Maritime Law
If you were injured on a vessel while at sea or in another situation that involves maritime activities, you might be able to bring a claim for compensation. Just like regular laws, maritime law has mechanisms for making claims for compensation for personal injuries and work-related accidents.
Jones Act
If you were injured while at work, you may be able to bring a claim against your employer under the Jones Act, 46 U.S. Code §30104. This federal law allows seamen to bring claims for compensation when they are injured as a result of their employer’s carelessness.
There are a few steps you need to take before you may be awarded compensation for your lost wages and medical expenses. For example, you must first prove that you fall within the definition of a seaman under the act. This may require proof that you work on a vessel at least 30% of the time.
A lawyer from our firm can review your situation and help you determine whether you should pursue compensation through a Jones Act claim or another type of legal action. Speaking with our team can be a great way to get the information you need about your legal rights and options.
Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
According to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal law designed to provide compensation to harbor workers and longshoremen who are injured while on the job. Like the regular workers’ compensation system, there are certain things that a claimant has to establish before they may be awarded benefits.
One of the first steps to filing an LHWCA claim is proving that you are covered under the act. The LHWCA generally covers:
- Longshore workers
- Harbor workers
- Vessel loading and unloading workers
- Constructing vessels
- Building vessels
These are just a few examples of the types of workers covered under the LHWCA. A lawyer from our firm can help you find out whether you may be eligible for compensation under the LHWCA.
LHWCA benefits cover things like lost wages and medical expenses. It is important to make sure that your lost wages are calculated correctly so that you request the maximum amount of benefits that you may deserve.
Personal Injuries
If you are a passenger on a vessel like a cruise ship and you suffer an injury, then you may be eligible for compensation. One of the first things to consider is whether your claim falls under admiralty law. If so, then you may need to follow special laws that apply to cruise ships and other common carriers on the water.
Cruise ships and other common carriers on the water have a duty to make sure that their vessels are reasonably safe and in good working condition. If a cruise ship does not meet this duty and someone gets hurt because of it, then the cruise ship may be held liable. This standard may apply to other types of water-related activities, including:
- Fishing charters
- Private boat rentals
- Sailing experiences
- Ferries
A lawyer from our firm can help you figure out what laws apply to your case and what type of claims or lawsuit you may be eligible to file.
How a Lawyer from Our Firm Can Assist You with Admiralty Law Matters
For many people, admiralty law is a confusing and unknown area of law. A lawyer from our firm can protect your rights and help you take the correct steps in your case. We can:
- Investigate your injury accident or legal matter
- Determine the appropriate laws that apply to your situation
- Help you file the right documents with the right court or claims system
- Gather evidence to support your potential right to financial recovery
- Make sure that insurance companies are treating you fairly
- Negotiate for a settlement if you want to pursue one
- Prepare you for any court appearances or depositions
- Answer your questions about the legal process
- Keep you informed about the progress of your case
- Prepare for trial if necessary
Call the Attorneys at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Now for a Free Case Evaluation
If you want to learn more about admiralty law and whether you may be eligible for financial compensation, contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers. We offer a free consultation so that you can ask questions and learn more about your legal rights. Dial (337) 777-7777 to discuss your case with a member of our team today.
