Terrebonne Maritime Lawyer
Work in the maritime industry has its risks, but when you’ve been injured at work and struggling to obtain financial support, a maritime lawyer in Terrebonne could help you secure the compensation and benefits you are entitled to.
Maritime workers are unlike many other types of Louisiana employees in that they are federally protected in the event of an injury. Seamen can obtain benefits under the Jones Act, while other maritime workers can pursue claims under the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA). However, gaining access to these benefits when you need them most can prove to be more difficult than you are prepared for.
When this happens, a Terrebonne maritime lawyer at the Law Office of Braud & Gallagher could be the answer you were looking for. Our firm can provide the experience and energy you need from your legal team. We will work diligently to obtain the approval you deserve so you can recover without having to worry about how you will continue to keep food on the table while out of work.
Compensating Injured Seamen Through the Jones Act
When a seaman is injured while working on an unseaworthy vessel, their employer will be obligated to provide them with benefits under the Jones Act. This federal law states that when a ship is even one percent dangerous for seamen, in any way, the injured worker is entitled to specific benefits. These include the following:
- Personal injury damages such as pain and suffering and lost wages
- Maintenance, which includes living expenses such as the cost of utilities and rent or mortgage payments
- Full coverage of the injury related medical expenses, known as cure in the maritime world
Only seamen who suffer injuries at work are able to recover compensation through the Jones Act, so if you have questions about whether you are considered a seaman, you should speak with your attorney in Terrebonne.
Benefits for Harbor Workers and Other Maritime Employees
Harbor workers, those who work in shipyards, longshoremen, oil rig workers, and other maritime employees are unique in that they are unable to file claims under the Jones Act, and they are not entitled to state workers compensation benefits when they suffer a work-related injury. Instead, these maritime employees can file a claim for benefits under the LHWCA.
If your claim is approved, you could be entitled to payment of your medical expenses, up to 66 percent of your lost income, and vocational rehabilitation if you are unable to continue working in the maritime industry due to the extent of your injuries.
Contact a Maritime Attorney in Terrebonne
Maritime workers who have suffered serious on-the-job injuries may need legal assistance securing the compensation they are entitled to.
To see whether you qualify for benefits under the Jones Act or the LHWCA, you can reach out to a highly trained Terrebonne maritime lawyer at the Law Office of Braud & Gallagher and schedule your no-cost claim review. We can set up yours when you give our office a call at 1-800-256-5674 or submit the quick contact form we have provided below.