Hazardous work environments and grueling demands on workers are part of Louisiana’s maritime industry.
Lafayette Maritime Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
If you suffered a spinal cord injury while working in the maritime industry, your legal options for recovering compensation would differ from those available to typical workers. Fortunately, one of two federal laws that protect injured maritime workers’ rights could cover you.
A Lafayette maritime spinal cord injury attorney from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can help you file a claim and pursue financial compensation for your medical bills, lost earnings, reduced earning capacity, and other damages.
$1 Billion+
Recovered for Louisianians
25+ Attorneys
Collaboration on every case
350+ Years
Combined years of experience
1,700+ Reviews
4.9 Google Rating
Financial Compensation for a Spinal Cord Injury Caused by Maritime Work
An injury to the spinal cord can lead to severe, debilitating symptoms. You may suffer from pain, numbness, reduced mobility, or even paralysis. You may require significant medical intervention, including long-term rehabilitative care.
Spinal cord injuries are not only painful but also expensive. The cost of medical treatment combined with lost income from missed work can be a massive financial burden to an injured maritime worker. Compensation may be available for these expenses, but successfully recovering compensation can be challenging, especially when dealing with a major injury.
A maritime spinal cord injury lawyer in Lafayette, LA, can provide the legal support you need. At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, our personal injury attorneys know the obstacles many injured maritime workers face when pursuing financial compensation and how to overcome these obstacles.
Compensation for Medical Treatment and Ongoing Medical Needs
The spine is one of the most important parts of the body, and the results of a spinal cord injury can be significant. Many spine injury sufferers require medication, surgery, and physical therapy. Severe spinal cord injuries may necessitate adaptive devices for communication or assistive devices such as braces or wheelchairs.
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses related to the following:
- Hospital stays
- Ambulance transportation
- Diagnostic testing
- Emergency room treatment
- Rehabilitative care
- Medical devices and equipment
- Medications
- Other medical needs
Compensation for Your Lost Income
A spine injury will most likely keep someone temporarily or permanently out of work. Depending on the nature of the injury and your position in the maritime industry, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost income. You may also be entitled to compensation for future lost income and lost earning capacity.
Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today
Get a Free Case Evaluation
A Maritime Spinal Cord Injury Attorney in Lafayette, LA, Can Help You Understand Your Legal Rights
Maritime workers are not covered under traditional workers’ compensation laws. The two primary laws regulating injured maritime workers’ access to compensation are the following:
- The Jones Act
- The Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)
The first step in understanding the amount and type of compensation you could receive is determining which federal law your situation falls under. Consult a workers’ compensation lawyer in Lafayette, LA, who is experienced in maritime law to understand better how these regulations impact your case.
The Jones Act Applies to Injured Seamen
46 U.S.C. 30104, called the Jones Act, is a federal law that gives certain maritime workers the right to recover compensation for injuries.
The Jones Act applies to seamen who spend at least 30% of their time working on a ship or boat that travels navigable waters. The following individuals are typically considered seamen:
- Captains
- Commercial fishermen
- Commercial divers
- Deckhands
- Engineers
- Crew members on vessels
- Tug and barge crew members
- Cruise ship staff
A person who brings a lawsuit under the Jones act must file it within three years of the injury.
‘Maintenance and Cure’ Claims Under the Jones Act
If you suffered an injury while working as a seaman on a vessel, you may be able to recover compensation through a “maintenance and cure” claim. Maintenance and cure claims provide compensation for an injured maritime worker’s daily expenditures and medical expenses.
You do not need to prove your employer or another party acted negligently to recover maintenance and cure compensation. You must only prove you meet the definition of a seaman and that your injuries were related to maritime work on a vessel.
Compensation for an Injury Caused by Negligence
Maritime employers must take appropriate measures to prevent avoidable injuries. This includes ensuring a reasonably safe working environment free of risks such as defective equipment or obvious slip and fall hazards. If your employer acted negligently and you were injured because of this negligence, you may have a second option for recovering compensation.
You may be able to file an “unseaworthiness” claim and recover compensation above and beyond what is available through a maintenance and cure claim. An unseaworthiness claim may allow for the recovery of medical bills, lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. An offshore spinal cord injury lawyer from our law firm can help you determine if an unseaworthiness claim is possible in your case. We will do everything we can to maximize your financial recovery.
The Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act Covers Longshoremen and Other Workers
Maritime workers who do not qualify as seamen under the Jones Act typically qualify for work injury coverage under the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).
The LHWCA may cover you if you work as a:
- Longshoreman
- Shipbuilder
- Ship repairer
- Shipbreaker
- Another worker engaged in work related to water and marine transport
Compensation available through the LHWCA is based on a percentage of your average weekly wage or a schedule that pays benefits based on what body part was injured.
Depending on the severity of your injury and the amount of time it takes you to recover from the injury, you could be entitled to:
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits
- Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits
In addition to compensation for your lost income, you may also be reimbursed for any medical expenses incurred by the work injury.
We Help Injured Workers Who Were Denied LHWCA Benefits
If your employer or the insurance company denies you compensation or tries to downplay the severity of your spinal cord injury, our Lafayette maritime spinal cord injury lawyers can help. We will advocate strongly on your behalf and fight for compensation through all the available legal avenues.
Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.
I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I thi...
I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I think it’s safe to assume that the majority of people who call in are stressed and to have someone who is calm and kind taking the call is a great representation of the company.
Marksville
Syntera was Very professional and courteous. Answered my concerns.
Renee McCaslin goes above and beyond to help the clients. Her attention to detail is unmatched! Her kind heart and sweet spirit both go a long way in ...
Renee McCaslin goes above and beyond to help the clients. Her attention to detail is unmatched! Her kind heart and sweet spirit both go a long way in making you feel heard and cared for. And, she’s, like, really pretty!
New Iberia
Elizabeth Lachney was super helpful in explaining a lot of things i didnt understand about my case. Very respectful and seemed so welling to help me! ...
Elizabeth Lachney was super helpful in explaining a lot of things i didnt understand about my case. Very respectful and seemed so welling to help me! She is the best, I 1000% recommend her if you have any questions!
New Iberia
Jourdan is an outstanding paralegal! She is knowledgeable, organized, and truly cares about the clients she works with. Every interaction I’ve h...
Jourdan is an outstanding paralegal! She is knowledgeable, organized, and truly cares about the clients she works with. Every interaction I’ve had with her has been positive — she takes the time to explain things clearly and makes the process much less stressful. Laborde Earles Law Firm is lucky to have someone like Jourdan on their team. I would highly recommend both Jourdan and the firm to anyone looking for trustworthy and reliable legal support.
New Orleans
Working with Toni Stelly has been a great experience. She is compassionate and listens to me when I have a concern or need some information. Toni is q...
Working with Toni Stelly has been a great experience. She is compassionate and listens to me when I have a concern or need some information. Toni is quick to respond to my questions and gets things done!! Good experience working with this firm.
Lake Charles
Stephanie Brooks was wonderful to work with! She was very professional during our interaction and extremely pleasant throughout the entire process. He...
Stephanie Brooks was wonderful to work with! She was very professional during our interaction and extremely pleasant throughout the entire process. Her kindness and clear communication made everything smooth and easy. Highly recommend working with her and the Laborde Earles Law Firm!
Lafayette
Michelle Brouillette is always so pleasant whenever I call or stop by the office. She always has a smile on her face.
Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working ...
Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Her attention to detail is unmatched.
She catches things most people would overlook, and she always makes sure every document is perfect before it leaves her hands.
Beyond her incredible skill set, Bridgette is also kind, reliable, and a true team player. She communicates clearly, stays organized under pressure, and goes above and beyond to make sure clients and attorneys alike feel supported.
You can tell she genuinely cares about her work and the people she helps.
If you're lucky enough to have Bridgette as your paralegal, you're in the best possible hands. Five stars isn't enough for someone this exceptional!
Alexandria
Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, ca...
Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, caring, and goes above and beyond for everyone in her life. She is a true gem! To know her is to love her!! Anybody would be lucky to have someone like Toni in their corner.
Marksville
At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go throu...
At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go through. They checked in on us to see how things were going with DR appointment and therapy. They checked in on the phone or by text and if I had a question and I was in Lafayette and I would stop by the office one of them would come to answer my questions. I truly appreciate the response and respect that they showed to me and my husband and I would really recommend them to family and friends.
Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) whic...
Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) which is always a breath of fresh air to be around someone who is genuine. She's a doll and anyone who comes into contact with her is a lucky one!
Baton Rouge
I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the...
I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the entire process. He was always patient, knowledgeable, and quick to respond to any questions I had. What stood out most was how genuinely he cared. He made sure I understood every step and always made me feel supported and informed.
Wesley’s professionalism and compassion truly set him apart. He made a stressful situation so much easier, and I’m incredibly grateful for all of his hard work. I highly recommend Wesley and the entire Laborde Earles team. They really do put their clients first.
Lafayette
Michelle Brouillette is a wonderful addition to the Laborde Earles team.
Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated T...
Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated Toxic Water Claim. Mr. John Chaillot has been instrumental in advising me on documentation, timelines, and all matters pertaining to my case. A true professional and appreciated. Thank you.
The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...
The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!
Alexandria
Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attor...
Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attorney who is extremely knowledgeable and you'll never doubt that he'll get the job done!
I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's,...
I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's, Amber, Toni, Debbie, Alana & Erica are absolutely amazing. You couldn't have ask for better. And to Rachael, she was so sweet the other day when I needed some information about when my advance was going to be ready. Thank you Laborde Earle's Law Firm for always being the Best.
New Orleans
Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...
Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!
Alexandria
Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one re...
Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one reason why we use Laborde Earles Law Firm. They make you feel like family!
New Iberia
I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica wa...
I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail. She took the time to explain each step of the process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and made sure I always felt supported and informed.
Her dedication and attention to detail were clear throughout, and it was evident she genuinely cared about achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to Erica’s hard work and expertise, my case went smoothly and successfully.
I highly recommend Erica Ducote to anyone in need of a skilled, reliable, and compassionate paralegal. She truly goes above and beyond!
Marksville
I’m so grateful for the help I received from Renee McCaslin. From start to finish, they were kind, professional, and truly cared about my situat...
I’m so grateful for the help I received from Renee McCaslin. From start to finish, they were kind, professional, and truly cared about my situation. They made everything easy to understand and handled every detail with care. I felt supported the whole way through. I highly recommend Renee McCaslin to anyone looking for a paralegal who goes above and beyond.
Lake Charles
Trudy Dupuy is a wonderful asset to the team. She does an amazing job.
I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions ...
I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions and concerns, and her professionalism was top notch. Her phone etiquette, and calm and caring attitude was outstanding.
Baton Rouge
Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had ...
Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had our best interest and our well being as a priority. I would recommend them to friends and family. My case had some extenuating circumstances and they both worked diligently to help us. I am very thankful for their service and dedication to us.
New Orleans
Courtney Marsh has a positive attitude and great attention to detail in her work!
Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...
Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!
I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are gua...
I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are guaranteed to work hard on your case and get the outcome you deserve. Brittani C. is one of the most organized, thorough and helpful paralegals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She keeps you informed and answers all your questions throughout the litigation process.
Baton Rouge
Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you fo...
Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you for all your hard work to all the people working on our case.
I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to det...
I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and a high level of reliability. Jillie consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that everything is handled efficiently and with care. Her knowledge and work ethic make her an outstanding professional, and I would highly recommend her!
Baton Rouge
They have good to keep me updated on the case but so far the settlement has not been reached.
I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and ...
I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and incredibly responsive. He took the time to explain every step of the process in clear terms and always made sure I felt informed and supported.
His attention to detail, strong communication, and genuine dedication made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. Derek went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome, and I’m truly grateful for his hard work.
If you’re looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, reliable, and truly cares about his clients, Derek Hebert is an outstanding choice.
Lafayette
Eryn Laughlin is a good employee, we love her!
Car Accident
Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. He...
Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. Her communication is clear, and she truly cares about delivering results. I couldn’t recommend her more highly!
Lake Charles
Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - profession...
Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - professional and always on top of everything. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and made sure I understood every step along the way. My case was resolved better than expected. I can’t thank them enough.
New Orleans
Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is ...
Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is truly a blessing!
The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...
The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!
I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other thing...
I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other things. Her detailed skills are very delightful. She goes out of her way to check on us, make sure we don't have any questions, and she is always on point. She moves very quick and always goes above and beyond for us to make sure we understand the process. I am so glad I ran into Laborde Earles and Alexis. Everyone will know about this company for sure and Alexis
Lafayette
Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly a...
Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly appreciate her attention to detail and genuine care for her clients!
New Orleans
Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews
Read More TestimonialsContact a Lafayette Maritime Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer for Personalized Assistance
Maritime workers play a crucial role in our economy and society. If you suffered injuries while working in a maritime job, our law firm can protect your rights and help you pursue financial compensation.
Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers offer a free initial consultation so that you can explore your legal options. Call us today so that we can learn more about your situation and how we can help.
