In the non-maritime world, employees who sustain on-the-job injuries or develop occupational illnesses are typically eligible to apply for state workers’ compensation. In the maritime industry, however, that is not always the case.
Seamen, i.e., men and women who work on maritime vessels and whose duties contribute to the function of the vessel or the accomplishment of its mission, are not eligible for state workers’ compensation. When seamen get hurt or fall ill while in the services of the ship, they must seek compensation under the Jones Act, maintenance and cure laws, and/or other maritime laws. A maritime attorney understands these complex maritime statutes and has the resources to help injured and ill seamen get the compensation they need and deserve.
Dockworkers and harbor workers, on the other hand, can often choose between the remedies available under maritime law and state workers’ comp. In most cases, these maritime workers can seek compensation for a work-related injury or illness under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, the Jones Act, or state workers’ compensation laws. An experienced maritime attorney helps longshoremen determine which statute will afford them the best compensation and then assists them in promptly filing a claim.
Maritime laws are complicated. Attorneys who specialize in maritime litigation have the requisite knowledge and skills to represent maritime workers effectively. A non-maritime attorney might make costly mistakes that could limit the amount of compensation you are able to obtain.
Were you injured while working at sea or on a dock? Contact a Boston maritime attorney today to learn more about your legal rights.
Latti Associates LLC –Boston maritime trial lawyers