Introduction
Working at sea is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. Maritime workers face unique risks, from rough seas and heavy machinery to hazardous cargo and long shifts. When accidents happen, the consequences can be devastating — often leading to serious injuries, financial losses, and even permanent disabilities.
This is where a maritime injury attorney becomes essential. These specialized lawyers help injured seamen, dockworkers, and offshore employees secure fair compensation under laws like the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), and general maritime law.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about maritime injury attorneys, including what they do, when to hire one, and how they can maximize your claim.
What Is a Maritime Injury Attorney?
A maritime injury attorney is a lawyer who focuses on representing injured workers and their families in accidents that occur at sea, on offshore rigs, or in ports and harbors. Unlike typical personal injury lawyers, maritime attorneys have in-depth knowledge of complex maritime laws that govern offshore and seafaring work.
They assist with:
- Filing claims under the Jones Act (for seamen injured due to negligence).
- Pursuing compensation under the LHWCA (for dockworkers and harbor employees).
- Handling cases under general maritime law (unseaworthiness claims, maintenance, and cure).
- Negotiating settlements and litigating in federal or state courts.
Common Types of Maritime Injuries
Maritime work involves unique hazards, and injuries can range from minor to life-threatening.
| Type of Injury | Description | Common Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Back & Spinal Injuries | Herniated discs, spinal fractures, or paralysis | Heavy lifting, falls, machinery accidents |
| Traumatic Brain Injuries | Concussions, brain damage | Falling objects, slips, or being struck by equipment |
| Broken Bones | Fractures in arms, legs, or ribs | Slips on wet decks, machinery mishaps |
| Burns | Thermal or chemical burns | Explosions, fires, hazardous chemicals |
| Amputations | Loss of fingers, hands, or limbs | Ship machinery accidents |
| Drowning or Near-Drowning | Loss of oxygen, brain damage | Falls overboard, vessel capsizing |
The Role of a Maritime Injury Attorney
A skilled maritime injury attorney provides more than legal representation. They become advocates for injured workers by:
- Investigating the Accident
- Collecting evidence from ships, rigs, or port facilities.
- Interviewing witnesses and coworkers.
- Reviewing maintenance logs and safety records.
- Determining Liability
- Identifying negligence by shipowners, employers, or third parties.
- Establishing whether unseaworthy conditions caused the accident.
- Navigating Maritime Laws
- Deciding whether the Jones Act, LHWCA, or general maritime law applies.
- Filing claims in the correct jurisdiction.
- Maximizing Compensation
- Calculating damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care.
- Negotiating with insurers and employers for a fair settlement.
- Taking cases to trial if necessary.
Maritime Laws That Protect Injured Workers
Maritime injury claims differ from regular workplace accidents because special laws apply.
1. The Jones Act
- Covers seamen who spend at least 30% of their work time on a vessel.
- Allows injured workers to sue their employer for negligence.
- Provides compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
2. Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)
- Protects dockworkers, harbor employees, and shipbuilders.
- Offers workers’ compensation-style benefits, including medical coverage and disability payments.
3. General Maritime Law
- Grants rights to all seamen, including maintenance and cure (living expenses and medical care until recovery).
- Covers unseaworthiness claims if the vessel itself is unsafe.
When Should You Hire a Maritime Injury Attorney?
Not every offshore accident requires a lawyer, but many do. You should contact a maritime injury attorney if:
- You suffered serious injuries requiring hospitalization.
- Your employer or insurer denies liability.
- You’re unsure whether the Jones Act or LHWCA applies.
- You are pressured into accepting a low settlement.
- The accident involved complex issues like equipment failure, explosions, or vessel unseaworthiness.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
A maritime injury attorney can help you recover different types of compensation depending on your case.
| Compensation Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, rehabilitation, surgery costs |
| Lost Wages | Past and future lost earnings |
| Pain and Suffering | Emotional distress, reduced quality of life |
| Disability Benefits | Permanent or partial disability compensation |
| Maintenance and Cure | Daily living expenses and medical treatment until recovery |
| Wrongful Death Benefits | Funeral expenses, loss of financial support for families |
Benefits of Hiring a Maritime Injury Attorney
- Specialized Knowledge – Maritime law is highly complex, and only attorneys with this expertise can properly handle these cases.
- Maximized Settlements – Employers and insurers often underpay; attorneys fight for fair compensation.
- Peace of Mind – Injured workers can focus on recovery while the lawyer handles the legal battle.
- Trial Experience – If settlements fail, attorneys can pursue litigation in federal or state courts.
How to Choose the Right Maritime Injury Attorney
When selecting an attorney, consider:
- Experience in maritime law (not just general personal injury).
- Successful case history with Jones Act and LHWCA claims.
- Reputation among maritime workers and legal peers.
- Willingness to go to trial if settlement negotiations fail.
- Clear communication and transparency in fees (many work on contingency).
Steps to Take After a Maritime Accident
Taking the right steps immediately after an accident strengthens your case.
- Report the injury to your supervisor or captain.
- Seek immediate medical treatment (even for minor injuries).
- Document the scene with photos and witness statements.
- Avoid signing settlement papers without legal advice.
- Contact a maritime injury attorney as soon as possible.
Case Example: Jones Act Claim in Action
Imagine a seaman working on an offshore drilling rig suffers a back injury because the employer failed to provide proper safety equipment. Under the Jones Act, the attorney proves employer negligence and secures:
- Full coverage of medical bills.
- Compensation for lost wages during recovery.
- Damages for long-term disability.
This example shows how crucial it is to have a knowledgeable attorney by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the statute of limitations for maritime injury claims?
Most maritime injury cases must be filed within 3 years, but deadlines may vary depending on the law.
Q2: Can families of deceased maritime workers file claims?
Yes. Families may pursue wrongful death benefits under the Jones Act or general maritime law.
Q3: How much does it cost to hire a maritime injury attorney?
Most attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win compensation.
Conclusion
Maritime work is vital to global trade and energy production, but it comes with significant risks. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury offshore, hiring a maritime injury attorney can make the difference between struggling with unpaid bills and securing the compensation you deserve.
With expertise in the Jones Act, LHWCA, and maritime law, these attorneys fight to protect injured workers and their families. Don’t navigate these complex legal waters alone — seek help from a dedicated maritime injury lawyer today.