On this page
- Common Causes in Boating and Maritime Injuries Cases
- Injuries Often Involved
- Maritime Law and Specialized Claims
- Evidence That Can Prove Your Claim
- Who May Be Responsible
- What to Do Next
- Compensation You May Be Able to Recover
- Why Acting Early Matters
- How Our Attorneys Can Help
- Attorneys Who Handle These Cases
- Frequently Asked Questions
Longshore and harbor worker claims involve federal compensation rules for workers on docks, terminals and shipyards.
This is a specialized area of law with its own rules, procedures and deadlines. During a free consultation we will review your situation and explain whether we can represent you directly or help you find appropriate counsel.
Longshore and Harbor Worker Injury Claims cases are part of our Boating and Maritime Injuries practice. We represent people injured in boating collisions, personal watercraft accidents, marina and dock incidents and cruise ship accidents, and we evaluate maritime worker claims that may fall under specialized federal statutes.
Common Causes in Boating and Maritime Injuries Cases
- Operator inattention and excessive speed
- Boating under the influence
- Inexperienced or untrained operators
- Defective vessels and equipment
- Unsafe docks, gangways and marinas
- Inadequate safety equipment or crew
Injuries Often Involved
- Drowning and near-drowning injuries
- Propeller injuries and lacerations
- Head and spinal injuries
- Fractures from falls on deck
- Fatal injuries
Maritime Law and Specialized Claims
Federal maritime law can apply to accidents on navigable waters, and cruise ship tickets often include strict notice and filing deadlines and forum requirements. Seamen, longshore and harbor workers may have rights under specialized federal laws that are different from ordinary workers' compensation. We review these issues at the outset of every case.
Evidence That Can Prove Your Claim
Strong cases are built on evidence gathered early. Depending on the facts, we work to obtain:
- Coast Guard and incident reports
- Vessel maintenance and safety records
- Crew training and staffing records
- Weather and navigation data
Who May Be Responsible
More than one party may share responsibility, which can increase the insurance coverage available. Potentially liable parties include:
- Boat operators and owners
- Cruise lines and ferry operators
- Marina and dock owners
- Vessel employers and equipment manufacturers
What to Do Next
- Call 911 and get medical attention, even if you feel fine
- Report the crash to police and get the report number
- Photograph the vehicles, scene, road conditions and your injuries
- Exchange insurance information and collect witness contact details
- Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver's insurer
- Speak with an attorney before signing anything
Compensation You May Be Able to Recover
Depending on the facts and the law that applies, a claim may include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering and emotional distress
- Rehabilitation, long-term care and home modification costs
- Property damage and other out-of-pocket losses
Why Acting Early Matters
Every state sets deadlines for filing injury claims, and claims involving government entities can require formal notice within a much shorter time. Video footage, records and physical evidence can be lost quickly. Speaking with an attorney early protects your options.
How Our Attorneys Can Help
We investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, document the full extent of your losses and pursue a fair settlement — and we are prepared to go to court when an insurer will not be reasonable. Personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Consultations are free and confidential.
Attorneys Who Handle These Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a case involving Longshore and Harbor Worker Injury Claims?
If someone else's negligence caused or contributed to your injury, you may have a claim. The answer depends on how the incident happened, the evidence available, your injuries and the law in your state. A free consultation can help you understand your options.
What is a Longshore and Harbor Worker Injury Claims case worth?
Every case is different. Value depends on the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost income, long-term effects, the strength of the evidence and the insurance available. We cannot predict an outcome, but we document every element of your losses.
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
We handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you, and the consultation is free and confidential.
What law applies to a boating accident?
State law, federal maritime law or both may apply depending on where the accident happened and who was involved.
Who is responsible for a jet ski accident?
The operator, the owner, a rental business or a manufacturer may be responsible, depending on the facts.
This page provides general information, not legal advice. Laws differ from state to state, and every case depends on its own facts. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.