Admiralty and maritime laws govern injuries and deaths near or on navigable waters, including rivers, gulfs, oceans, and lakes. Examples of admiralty accidents include injuries and deaths on oil platforms, commercial harbors, fishing charters, or cruise ships.
These kinds of accidents can be complicated, but our Lake Charles admiralty accident lawyers at Hale Injury Lawyers have nearly 65 years of combined experience. Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for thousands of Louisiana injury victims in jury verdicts and negotiated settlements. We are seasoned trial lawyers and aggressive settlement negotiators with a successful track record.
Contact Hale Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today or call us at (337) 426-1071 in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
How Hale Injury Lawyers Can Help You With an Admiralty Accident Claim in Lake Charles, LA
If you were injured in a maritime accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and financial losses. Several federal and state laws affect injured maritime workers and other victims of boating accidents. Determining your rights and legal options can be challenging. Hiring an experienced admiralty accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving the money you deserve.
When you hire our top-rated Lake Charles personal injury lawyers, you can trust we will:
- Thoroughly investigate the circumstances leading to your accident
- Explain the maritime and admiralty laws that govern your claim
- Consult leading experts in their fields to strengthen your claim
- Defend you against allegations of contributory fault
- Assess how much your claim is worth based on your damages
- Represent you during all court appearances and at trial
- Negotiate fair settlements to your claim to avoid a prolonged trial if possible
- Detail of a handrail and rope tied to a hitch on a boat
Our attorneys have excellent ratings and recognition from national legal organizations, such as Top Trial Lawyers in America, The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 under 40, Top Lawyers of Acadiana, and Super Lawyers. Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Lake Charles admiralty accident attorney.
Several Laws and Statutes Affect Lake Charles Admiralty Accident Claims for Work-Related Injuries
If you are a maritime worker, you may be able to seek compensation for an admiralty accident under one or more laws including, but not limited to:
The Jones Act
The Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (a/k/a The Jones Act) is a federal workers’ compensation system for seamen injured on the job. Injured seamen have the right to file a negligence claim against their employers. However, unlike state workers’ compensation, injured seamen must prove their employer was negligent in causing their injuries to recover benefits.
The Jones Act provides maintenance and cure benefits. “Cure” benefits provide medical treatment for the injured worker. “Maintenance” pays the workers for their living expenses while they are out of work. Semen can also receive pain and suffering damages under The Jones Act.
Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act
The LHWCA applies to maritime workers who do not qualify to file claims under The Jones Act. These maritime workers may work in areas adjoining navigable waters, including shipyards, loading docks, and boat repair facilities. Covered workers include shipbreakers, harbor construction workers, shipbuilders, harbor railway workers, and longshore workers.
The LHWCA is similar to a state workers’ compensation system. The injured maritime worker receives medical treatment and rehabilitation services. They may also receive disability payments if they cannot work. However, the LHWCA does not compensate workers for their pain and suffering damages.
Admiralty Accidents Involving Passengers on Ships and Other Vessels
You may recover compensation for your economic and non-economic damages if you are injured on a passenger ship or in another admiralty accident. Admiralty law also provides a cause of action for personal injury claims when someone is injured in an accident that is not work-related.
Examples of personal injury claims for admiralty accidents include recreational boating accidents, ferry accidents, cruise ship accidents, and accidents on personal watercraft.
Injured parties may recover compensation for their out-of-pocket expenses, loss of income, medical expenses, and other economic damages. They can also recover compensation for non-economic damages, including diminished quality of life, emotional distress, and impairments.
Common Causes of Admiralty Accidents in Louisiana
Numerous factors may contribute to the cause of an admiralty accident.
Examples of reasons for admiralty accidents include:
- Negligence and recklessness by workers, owners, employers, and operators
- Violations of safety regulations, including failing to provide safety equipment, lack of safety railings, etc.
- Failing to train and supervise employees adequately
- Unsafe working conditions
- Failing to maintain and repair vessels
- Oil spills, slippery decks, and other environmental conditions
- Exposure to hazardous substances and toxic chemicals
- Reckless operation of boats and vessels causing collisions
- Faulty or defective machinery and tools
Maritime workers, passengers, and others on navigable waters may encounter numerous hazards and dangerous conditions. If you are injured in an admiralty accident, our attorneys can help you determine the cause of your injuries and identify who is responsible for your damages.
Contact a Lake Charles Admiralty Accident Attorney if You’ve Been Injured
If you were injured in an accident on or near navigable waters, call Hale Injury Lawyers to discuss your legal options for recovering compensation for damages. Our Lake Charles admiralty accident lawyers help clients navigate the complex laws governing these types of claims. Your initial consultation with an attorney does not cost anything.
