Four Things To Do After A Gulf Of Mexico Maritime Accident
If you work on or near the water, you are prepared for things to go wrong, from hurricanes to unexpected engine failure. Still, no matter how well you’ve prepared, it is easy to be caught off guard when you yourself are injured in an accident off of the Gulf Coast.
The right course of action after a maritime accident will depend somewhat on what happened — were you exposed to a hazardous substance in the engine room or did you fall on a ladder? — but there are four things you should do after every maritime accident to protect yourself and make sure you receive the care you need to recover.
1. Report Your Injury To Your Captain Or Supervisor
If you get injured on a small fishing boat, your captain and crew will know what happened right away, but on larger vessels and oil rigs, you may need to seek out your supervisor to report your injury. It is important to have a log of what happened if you decide to pursue a claim under the Jones Act or Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
2. Take Notes And Photos
Accidents happen quickly, but figuring out who is at fault can take months or even years. Take the time soon after the accident to write down what you remember happening, including the names of everyone who was nearby at the time. Take pictures of the equipment and conditions.
3. Get Medical Attention
You may be tempted to tough it out, but it is critical that you seek medical attention after an accident. If you decide to make a claim, you will need a medical professional to evaluate your injuries.
4. Consult An Attorney
Many people call us after it’s too late. Even if you think your company is treating you well after an accident, it is still a good idea to get legal advice from an experienced lawyer.
Call Frischhertz & Impastato at 504-264-9915 or toll free at 866-920-5611 as soon as possible after an accident. You can also contact us through our online form. Our office is located in New Orleans, and we represent injured people throughout southern Louisiana.
You have nothing to lose by calling us for a free consultation, but if you don’t take action until you realize something serious is wrong, you may have a harder time receiving the compensation you would otherwise deserve.
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