Offshore Injuries Deserve Strong Representation

Louisiana’s maritime workforce keeps our state moving. From offshore oil crews to deckhands, tugboat operators, commercial fishermen, and shipyard workers, these jobs are vital but extremely dangerous. When an injury happens at sea or on a coastal job site, the laws that protect you are not the same as standard workplace injury rules. You need a lawyer who understands maritime law and who fights aggressively for injured workers.

Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers represents maritime workers throughout Louisiana and the Gulf region. Whether your injury occurred on an oil rig, supply vessel, barge, dock, or in open waters, our team helps you seek the compensation you need to recover physically, financially, and emotionally. We know the stakes are high. We are here to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus fully on healing.

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Why Maritime Injury Cases Are So Complex

Maritime work environments are inherently hazardous, and when something goes wrong offshore, the consequences can be catastrophic. These cases require deep legal knowledge and careful investigation. Maritime accidents often involve:

  • Unsafe or poorly maintained equipment
  • Slip and trip hazards on wet decks
  • Falls from ladders or heights
  • Heavy machinery failures
  • Fires, explosions, or blowouts
  • Tugboat or barge collisions
  • Lifting injuries caused by understaffing
  • Fatigue from long shifts offshore

These environments are governed by unique federal laws, and the process for recovering compensation is different from standard workplace claims. Our team understands how to handle these cases from the ground up.

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The Laws That Protect Maritime Workers

Maritime workers are protected by a set of federal laws designed specifically for offshore and vessel-based employment. Laborde Earles is experienced in every major statute that may apply to your case. Key laws include:

  • The Jones Act, which allows injured seamen to pursue compensation when employer negligence plays a role in an accident
  • The Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act, which covers dock workers, shipyard workers, and others on navigable waters
  • The Death on the High Seas Act, which applies to tragic offshore fatalities occurring beyond territorial waters
  • General Maritime Law, which provides additional protections such as maintenance and cure

Understanding which law applies to your situation is critical. We help you navigate these rules and protect your right to full compensation.

Common Maritime Injuries in Louisiana

Offshore injuries often require long recovery times and carry major financial consequences. We work with medical experts to document injuries such as:

  • Head and brain injuries
  • Traumatic back and spinal cord injuries
  • Crush injuries and amputations
  • Severe burns or chemical exposure
  • Knee, shoulder, and joint trauma
  • Internal injuries from falls or impact
  • Chronic pain conditions caused by repetitive strain

We make sure no part of your physical or emotional harm is overlooked.

Compensation You May Recover After a Maritime Injury

Maritime accidents often affect every aspect of your life and your livelihood. Our attorneys calculate the full scope of your losses to pursue maximum compensation. You may recover damages for:

  • Medical treatment and future care
  • Emergency transport and hospitalization
  • Lost wages and reduced earning ability
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional and psychological distress
  • Loss of quality of life
  • Long-term disability
  • Wrongful death damages for grieving families

We partner with economists, industry experts and physicians to ensure your compensation reflects the true impact of your injuries.

What to Do After an Offshore or Maritime Injury

If you were injured offshore, the steps you take immediately afterward can play an important role in your claim. When possible:

  • Report the injury to your supervisor as soon as you are able
  • Request medical attention immediately
  • Photograph equipment, hazards, or conditions that contributed to the accident
  • Keep records of every appointment and symptom
  • Avoid signing company paperwork without legal advice
  • Do not give recorded statements to company representatives
  • Contact a Laborde Earles as soon as possible

Employers and insurers act fast to protect their own interests. You deserve someone who is protecting yours.

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Why Choose Laborde Earles for a Maritime Injury Case

Our law firm has deep Louisiana roots and extensive experience fighting for injured offshore workers. Maritime law is a complex area, but our team is prepared to take on the largest companies and insurers on your behalf. We help by:

  • Identifying the correct laws that protect your case
  • Investigating the cause of the accident
  • Working with maritime engineers and industry experts
  • Documenting unsafe work practices or equipment failures
  • Managing all communication with employers and insurers
  • Negotiating aggressively for a fair settlement
  • Taking your case to trial if necessary

We treat every client with the respect, honesty, and personal attention they deserve. You are not just a case number. You are part of our Louisiana community.

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like 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!

T
Tracie Martin

Alexandria

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!

M
Megan Couvillon

Alexandria

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!

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maddie jo

Marksville

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!

M
Megan C.

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.

D
Debbie Fontenot

Marksville

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!

B
Brittany Johnson

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.

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Sarah Jorden

Marksville

They have good to keep me updated on the case but so far the settlement has not been reached.

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Lisa S.

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.

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Hazel G.

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

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Maritime Injury Claims Clear Answers to Important Questions

Do I qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act?

If you spend a significant portion of your work time on a vessel in navigation, you may qualify. We can evaluate your job duties and determine your legal status.

What if my employer says the injury was my fault?

Under the Jones Act, the legal standard for employer fault is low. Even slight negligence from your employer can allow you to recover damages.

Can I get compensation if I was injured on a dock, platform or shipyard?

Yes. Dock and harbor workers are often covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act.

What if I was pressured not to report my injury?

This is common in offshore workplaces. You still have legal rights, and we can help protect them.

Do you have more questions?

Our team is here to answer every question about your case—clearly and honestly.

Speak With a Louisiana Maritime Injury Lawyer Today

Offshore injuries change lives in an instant, but you do not have to navigate this process alone. Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers stands with Louisiana’s workers and their families, offering guidance, clarity, and trusted support when you need it most.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let our team help you pursue the compensation you deserve under maritime law.

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