St. Charles Parish Seaman Injury Lawyer
If you sustained an injury while working aboard a vessel on navigable waters, you may need help recovering not just physically, but emotionally and financially as well. The pain you experienced may be overwhelming, and it can intensify if your employer or the vessel owner refuses to take responsibility for your accident.
Fortunately, there are ways to fight back and obtain compensation for your injuries. A St. Charles Parish seaman injury lawyer can put their experience and skill to work for you and fight for a positive result for your injury claim. Work with an experienced maritime injury attorney that could attempt to achieve a positive outcome for you.
Common Hazards Faced by Maritime Workers
Each day, countless seamen are exposed to harsh working conditions that many people are not equipped to handle. Most of these diligent individuals understand basic safety procedures and are encouraged to maintain a safe working environment by their employers.
However, most seamen are regularly exposed to various work hazards, including:
- Slip and falls
- Equipment failures
- Shipwrecks
- Engine room accidents
- Fires and explosions
Companies have a moral and legal obligation to keep their workers safe. Proper safety training is necessary for all seamen, and supervisors should be sure to report any safety hazards to the correct department or individual as soon as they are noticed. If a supervisor fails to do so, the employer can be held liable for harm caused to a worker as a result.
Importance of Filing for Financial Compensation
Many seamen are unaware they may be able to file a personal injury claim after sustaining an injury at sea. This is especially true if a company refuses to take responsibility, and seamen should understand they may be entitled to compensation for their injuries.
These injuries can be painful and expensive, and can even prevent a person from returning to work and supporting their family. Medical bills can be unbelievably high, even with health insurance. Without compensation, injured seamen will be forced to pay for their own injuries. Individuals who have been injured, should consult a St. Charles Parish seaman injury lawyer can help individuals pursue compensation.
The Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (Jones Act)
The Merchant Marine Act of 1920, also known as the Jones Act, was enacted to protect individuals working on maritime vessels who are often exposed to hazards that can leave them permanently injured. The Jones Act ensures seamen are provided certain rights of protection for their lives and livelihoods.
The Act also allows crew members, as well as their spouses or children, to file suit if they sustain an injury that was directly caused by the negligence of an employer. Jurisdictions in the United States must honor this act, and any company that employs offshore workers must do the same.
How a St. Charles Parish Seaman Injury Attorney Can Help
No one should suffer injuries caused by a negligent employer. Help from a St. Charles Parish seaman injury lawyer can even the playing field against your employer and their insurance company.
An injury attorney will fight for you, your rights, your compensation, and your future. Call an attorney today to find out how they can help you obtain the compensation you deserve to recover from your losses.