Should I hire a maritime lawyer after an injury at sea? Our maritime attorneys will explain compensation for injuries at sea. Maritime accident cases are different from common workers’ compensation claims because injuries at sea do not necessarily fall under the jurisdiction of the laws of any state. Instead, some federal laws apply to maritime injuries, including compensation laws to shoreline workers and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).
This entitles maritime workers to different benefits after a work injury, depending on the circumstances. But these maritime laws can be complex and your ability to obtain compensation depends on many factors, such as your position and the circumstances of the accident.
Unfortunately, these factors are not always clear, making it easy for your employer to deny your claim. So, if you are injured at sea as an oil worker, fisherman or any other related occupation, then you should speak with a lawyer experienced in maritime laws about your options and rights.
Attorneys at PMR Law have handled more than a thousand injury cases. Because of this, they have first-hand knowledge of the shortcuts companies take to make a profit while jeopardizing the safety of their workers. PMR Law uses this specific knowledge to fight for the rights of the injured in maritime accidents.
After suffering an injury at sea, you must take steps to protect your health and the ability to obtain compensation. After an accident at sea, it is important that you:
Seek treatment
Always get medical treatment after an accident at sea, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some injuries take days to appear. Others can cause serious secondary health problems, such as infections.
Fill out an accident report
It is vital to have correct records that show your injuries and the circumstances related to your accident. So, complete an accident report for your employer and make sure you keep a copy.
Call a lawyer
Besides the initial report, do not sign any document from your employer before it is reviewed by a lawyer. You could be waiving certain rights. You should also never give any recorded statement about your injuries without the advice of a maritime lawyer.
Get a second opinion
If your employer has its own medical staff, also look for independent verification of your injuries from a medical professional not related to your employer. The medical staff that works for your employer can minimize the seriousness of your injuries to avoid paying more in compensation.
WHAT LAWS APPLY TO WORKERS WHO ARE INJURED AT SEA?
Maritime laws allow those who work on ships to receive maintenance and healing for their injuries, regardless of who is at fault. This means that after an injury related to your work, your employer is responsible for covering your basic needs such as income, electricity, and food as well as the necessary medical care for your injuries. In addition, you can receive maintenance and care until you reach maximum medical improvement. However, these laws may vary for union members.
In addition, specific maritime laws cover certain types of workers and accidents. These include:
The Jones Law
The Jones law protects sailors or people who spend considerable time working on ships and navigation. In some cases, offshore platform workers may be covered by the Jones law.
The compensation law for dock and offshore workers (LHWCA)
This law covers maritime workers who are not marine. LHWCA can cover those who build ships, repairmen, and laborers who work in or near navigable waters.
The law of death at sea (DOSHA)
This law provides compensation to the families of offshore workers who die from acts of negligence at sea. However, DOSHA has very strict guidelines on when family members can make claims.
Pipeline Accidents
If you have been involved in a pipeline accident and received an injury related to oil or gas, we can identify what went wrong, who is responsible, and build your case.
If you were injured at sea, then our lawyers can help you determine if you have a valid claim under maritime laws. Depending on the circumstances, you may have multiple options to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and more. Our attorneys can answer your questions and explain your options based on your individual circumstances.
Houston Maritime Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident in an oil rig, contact a personal injury lawyer immediately. It is difficult for a layperson to understand the complexities of federal and maritime law. Retaining the services of a skilled and experienced Houston maritime accident lawyer can save you time and money, while also placing you in a position to recover damages. Call PMR Law at 832-481-3427 today to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer who will tirelessly fight for your legal rights.
Get in touch with us immediately so we can evaluate your case for free. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also fill out a form by clicking here.
PMR Law is considered one of the Best Law Firms of America, by Rue Ratings. Several of our attorneys have been given the honor of being named Super Lawyers by Thomson Reuters. The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys has named our attorneys 10 Best in Client Satisfaction. Speaking of personal injury, Attorney and Practice Magazine awarded our attorneys with Top 10 Personal Injury Attorney distinctions. The National Trial Lawyers, as well as the American Academy of Attorneys, have named two of our attorneys as Top 40 Under 40. Our attorneys have been recognized as Best Attorneys of America, by Rue Ratings. PMR Law is a proud member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocate Forum.