Working as a longshoreman or a sailor is a dangerous occupation and accidents can easily happen at work. However, if you’ve been injured on the job and you feel it could have been avoided, or your employer broke labor laws, you need to consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable about maritime labor laws. Not only may you be able to seek compensation for your injuries through state worker’s compensation laws, but you may have claims under certain federal laws as well.
Federal Maritime Laws
There are certain federal laws covering people who work on ships or dry docks, or in other aspects of the maritime industry if they are injured or become ill. For instance, the Jones Act helps sailors recover compensation from employers if they have been injured or taken ill on the job. Since maritime employment is covered under federal law, per the United States Constitution, it is important to hire an experienced maritime accident attorney if you’ve been injured while working as a maritime employee.
State Compensation Laws
In some instances, a case could be under state jurisdiction, so you need a maritime accident attorney with the knowledge of where to file a compensation claim. Filing it with the wrong court could mean that the case is thrown out and the process of seeking compensation for injuries resulting from an accident at work would have to start over. It could delay your case for months, which is a time you cannot afford if you’re unable to work due to your injuries.
Whether you were working as a longshoreman, a sailor, a dock worker, or a ship repair person, if you were injured on the job, you have the right to seek compensation for time off work, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. It’s important to hire an experienced maritime accident attorney so that your case is handled correctly visit us at Davant & Associates.