Long Island Seaman Injury Lawyer
All maritime workers, especially seamen, have to perform dangerous duties. That is why the law protects them in case of work-related accidents. If you were hurt while doing your job, you can seek compensation. An experienced Long Island seaman injury lawyer can explain your rights and help you recover full damages.
Since laws protecting maritime workers are more complicated than regular personal injury laws, legal assistance is especially important. A seasoned maritime injury attorney could help you make correct legal decisions and avoid errors.
Types of Injuries Seamen Sustain at Work
Whether a seaman is working in navigable waters or onshore, they face many dangerous situations. Some of the common injuries they sustain are:
- Back Injuries: Lifting heavy equipment or being thrown during rough seas can lead to serious back or spinal cord injuries
- Head and Brain Injuries: Falling objects, slips and falls, or collisions can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or concussions
- Broken Bones: Machinery accidents and sudden impacts can cause fractures.
- Electrical Injuries: Seamen working in engine rooms or near electrical systems face risks of fire-related burns or electrocution
- Crush Injuries: Getting caught in heavy machinery or between moving parts can lead to crush injuries or traumatic amputations
- Exposure-Related Illnesses: Prolonged exposure to hazardous chemicals or extreme weather can lead to respiratory problems and skin conditions
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Tasks requiring repetitive motion (e.g., hoisting, pulling ropes) may cause chronic pain and joint damage
Regardless of how an injury was sustained, if it led to damages, the seaman has the right to seek compensation. An experienced Long Island seaman injury attorney can help evaluate the damages and file relevant claims.
Laws that Regulate Maritime Worker Compensation
Several laws make it possible for maritime workers to claim compensation. They include:
The Jones Act (Merchant Marine Act of 1920)
The Jones Act allows seamen who were injured in the course of their employment to file a personal injury claim against the employer. The injured person can take action in federal or state court. Even though maritime law does not usually give plaintiffs the right to a jury trial, the Jones Act allows this for personal injury claims.
Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA)
DOHSA allows families to recover damages if a loved one dies due to negligence or wrongful acts that occurred more than three nautical miles from U.S. shores. It applies to both maritime workers and passengers.
Maintenance and Cure Doctrine
The Maintenance and Cure Doctrine requires employers to provide injured seamen with daily living expenses (“maintenance”) and medical care (“cure”) until they reach maximum medical improvement. This benefit applies regardless of who was at fault for the injury.
A qualified attorney in Long Island could help the seaman understand which laws apply to their case and how to take advantage of them. The legal team can help obtain maximum compensation as soon as possible.
Consult a Skilled Seaman Injury Lawyer in Long Island Today
If you were injured while performing your duties at a maritime job, you can seek compensation. The approach to damage recovery depends on many factors, including the circumstances of the accident and the skills of your Long Island seaman injury lawyer.
An attorney with experience in NY and federal maritime laws can help you get the money you deserve. To discuss your next steps, schedule a free consultation with our team today.
