The maritime domain is the domain that uses sophisticated and unique laws to manage incidents, injuries, and potential conflicts that take place in waters with navigable depth. Knowing their rights in maritime law becomes very important whenever a person is in a ship servicing company as an employee, a dock worker, or even an offshore oil platform worker. In case of unfortunate incidents like injuries to the employee or any legal issue arising, it would be best to hire a maritime attorney who can protect and legal aid for the best possible outcome.
What Is Maritime Law and Who Defines Its Protection?
Maritime law creates the provisions for the one doing work on or near the navigable waters,, for example, fishermen, employees on cargo vessels, workers on cruise ships, personnel on oil rigs, and longshore workers. Unlike an ordinary worker’s compensation, maritime law offers special protection under the following acts.
- The Jones Act, an injured seaman can take his employer to court. In doing so, he will claim that the employer was negligent.
- Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act-LHWCAB dock and some other marine workers need to be compensated for the injuries sustained, whether or not these are in the course of their employment.
- Maintenance and Cure-Injured maritime workers are entitled to medical and living expenses until recovery.
So, it isn’t simple and needs a qualified lawyer’s guidance.
Importance of a Maritime Lawyer
Maritime claims are not the same as regular personal injury accusations. These claims involve complicated systems of laws, legal definitions, courts, and other components. Here is why hiring a maritime lawyer is essential when facing a naval injury or dispute:
- Specialization in the Field of Maritime Laws
Regular injury attorneys may not grasp the details of maritime law. A seasoned maritime lawyer knows the intricacies that come with these types of cases so that you get the best representation possible.
- Ensuring Full Compensation Payment
If you’ve sustained injuries at sea, your employer or insurance provider may try to minimize your claim. A maritime attorney will defend your claim and get every penny you deserve for medical bills, wages, and distress lawsuits.
For instance, if a deckhand falls on an oil spill due to negligence from the deckhand’s employer, a maritime attorney can use the Jones Act to get damages that exceed the usual workers’ compensation.
- Guarding Against Employer Retaliation
A lot of employees in the maritime field will face fear of retaliation regarding making a claim. A proficient lawyer will defend you against unlawful firing and intimidation from your employer.
- Dealing with the Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are specialists at underpaying settlements. Maritime lawyers know how the insurance companies function and are ready to negotiate a reasonable amount on your behalf.
- Litigation Assistance
There is a considerable difference if your case goes to trial. A professional Maritime attorney will ensure that they put together all the required elements, assemble the facts, and present you in the courtroom in the strongest possible light.
When to Get a Maritime Lawyer
You should try to seek out legal assistance as soon as possible if you:
- Have sustained injuries on a ship, dock, or offshore platform.
- Your boss is refusing to pay you maintenance and cure benefits.
- An insurer is lowballing you with settlement offers.
- You are being wrongfully dismissed or retaliated against for making a claim.
Conclusion: Let A Maritime Lawyer Help You in Protecting Your Rights
Legal representation is paramount for maritime injuries or disputes, regardless if you are a seaman, a docker, or an offshore worker. Do not attempt to piece together the enigmatic layers of maritime law alone. You deserve full compensation, and you should let a naval lawyer help you receive the justice you are owed.
For skilled legal assistance, go to Maintenance and Cure to contact seasoned maritime lawyers who can immediately assist you with your case.
