Firm Update: Frischhertz & Impastato is open as we know your needs cannot be placed on hold!  To protect you during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, we are offering video conferencing as well as telephone conferences.  Please contact our office today to discuss your options.

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Firm Update: Frischhertz & Impastato is open as we know your needs cannot be placed on hold!  To protect you during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, we are offering video conferencing as well as telephone conferences.  Please contact our office today to discuss your options.

Frischhertz and Impasto | Personal Injury Law

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Phone: 504-264-9915  Toll Free: 866-920-5611

Phone: 504-264-9915

Toll Free: 866-920-5611

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A serious injury puts everything on the line. We know how to fight the insurance companies and get the compensation you deserve.

Seeking compensation for maritime and offshore injuries

On Behalf of | Oct 7, 2024 | Admiralty & Maritime Law |

Working on a vessel is a rewarding experience. Still, maritime workers face different risks than on-land employees. Fortunately, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) and the Jones Act establish guidelines to protect maritime employees. You may be eligible for compensation if your injury was caused by an accident or negligence. This way, you can focus on your recovery instead of worrying about treatment costs.

Understanding the LHWCA

The LHWCA is a federal law designed to compensate injured maritime employees. This act ensures that employees in traditional maritime occupations have medical coverage in the event of a workplace injury. Additionally, the LHWCA provides survivor benefits to dependents if the injury results in the employee’s death.

A favorable resolution of an LHWCA claim can include multiple benefits, such as:

  • Disability benefits
  • Compensation for lost wages
  • Vocational rehabilitation

These benefits can allow you to fund your recovery and gain the skills needed to return to work. Additionally, you can receive reasonable and necessary treatment for your injuries, including:

  • Surgical and hospital treatment
  • Prescription medications
  • Diagnostic tests
  • Physical therapy

This way, you can focus on recovery and receive the treatment you need.

Understanding the Jones Act

The Jones Act provides options not found in general maritime law. This law specifically covers seamen and provides remedies for injuries caused by an employer’s negligence. To qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, your job must involve necessary work for a ship’s function and mission. Moreover, your employment must be substantial and continual on a vessel in operation or at sea.

If you can demonstrate that your employer’s negligence contributed to your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for multiple factors as follows:

  • Current and future medical care
  • Future lost wages
  • Living expenses
  • Pain and suffering

Therefore, the Jones Act can provide compensation and relief for maritime injuries caused by negligence. Navigating the compensation process for maritime and offshore injuries can be complex. Hence, understanding your rights under the LHWCA and the Jones Act is crucial. Ensure you report injuries promptly, file the required claims and seek medical treatment to receive benefits. If you have questions, a lawyer can guide you through the process and help you defend your rights.