Metairie Maritime Accident Lawyer

Being injured at work is never easy, but when you’re a maritime worker, the laws for obtaining the benefits you’ll need are far more complex. Get help from a maritime accident lawyer in Metairie so you can begin collecting the compensation you are entitled to.

Maritime workers do not qualify for workers compensation benefits in Louisiana, or any state for that matter. This is because these employees are protected under the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).

The law that will protect you will depend on which type of maritime worker you are considered to be. Seamen will file under the Jones Act, while all other maritime employees will apply for benefits under the LHWCA.

Pursuing a claim under a federal law can seem overwhelming, and having a highly trained Metairie maritime accident lawyer at the Law Office of Braud & Gallagher on your side can make all the difference in the success of your case. We will work tirelessly to ensure that you are positioned to secure the benefits that you need to provide for yourself and your family while you recuperate.

Protections under the Jones Act and the LHWCA

The Jones Act coverage extends to maritime workers who are considered seamen. These employees work on the navigable waters and can obtain benefits when the vessels they work on are found to be unseaworthy. This occurs when the ship becomes unsafe at any time, for any reason. Your Metairie maritime accident attorney will work diligently to determine whether you meet the criteria for Jones Act benefits as described below.

This is different from other maritime employees who may be awarded benefits through the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. The LHWCA works similarly to state workers compensation laws in that it doesn’t matter whose fault the accident was or how long you’ve been working for your employer; you could be entitled to benefits when you are hurt due to a work-related injury.

Maintenance, Cure, and the Damages You Deserve

Seamen who suffer injuries in Metairie and are approved for benefits under the Jones Act are entitled to recovery of lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, inconvenience, emotional distress, and damage to their earning capacity. In addition, they will also be entitled to maintenance and cure, which refer to the coverage of your necessary living expenses and medical costs, respectively.

Other maritime employees who have been approved for benefits under the LHWCA may have their medical expenses covered, and have the potential to receive wage replacement benefits that will allow them to continue to earn a portion of their salary while out of work. If an injured maritime worker is permanently disabled, they should also be able to receive vocational rehabilitation benefits.

Speak with a Maritime Injury Attorney in Metairie

As can be seen, the impact of such a work-related accident can completely upheave your life. When you aren’t sure which federal maritime law will apply to you, get in touch with an experienced Metairie maritime accident lawyer at the Law Office of Braud & Gallagher.

We are pleased to offer injured maritime workers a complementary claim review. You can schedule yours today by completing the brief contact form included at the bottom of this page or by calling our firm at 1-800-256-5674.