Attorneys Handling Longshoremen And Harbor Worker Injury Claims

Longshoremen and harbor workers have difficult jobs that include repairing, altering, outfitting and even constructing ships; loading and unloading cargo; rigging cargo; transferring load trailers; and more. These tasks require unique sets of skills and the ability to work with large and often dangerous machinery and equipment. Accidents occur frequently on these jobs. While the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides some measure of security for workers, it is part of a specified, complicated area of law that requires a lawyer with experience and knowledge.

At Munch and Munch, P.A., we have more than 50 combined years of experience representing injured longshoremen and harbor workers in Tampa and throughout Florida. We can help guide you through the process of obtaining the compensation you are entitled to by law. If you or a loved one is employed as a longshoreman or harbor worker, it is critical that you know and understand your legal rights. Under the general maritime law of the United States, an injured longshoreman or harbor worker has the right to seek compensation under the LHWCA. We can help you get the compensation you deserve.

About The Longshore And Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act

The LHWCA is a federal law that gives benefits to longshoremen and harbor workers who become injured on the job in shipyards or boatyards located on navigable waters.

Workplace injuries for a longshoreman or harbor worker may occur on the following and more:

• Docks
• Building ways
• Wharves
• Dry docks
• Graving docks
• Marine railways
• Terminals

Harbor workers are also commonly subject to occupational diseases as a result of frequent exposure to asbestos while working at the dry docks and shipyards. This is due to the prolonged use of asbestos-containing materials in the renovation and construction of ships.

Common Injuries Affecting Longshoremen And Harbor Workers

The nature of maritime work exposes longshoremen and harbor workers to hazards that can result in severe injuries. Understanding these risks is the first step in recognizing when you may have a valid claim under the LHWCA. Many of these injuries occur suddenly due to workplace accidents, while others develop gradually over years of physically demanding labor in harsh conditions. Frequent workplace injuries in this industry include:

• Crushing injuries: Workers can become trapped between cargo containers, vessels and dock equipment, resulting in devastating injuries to limbs and internal organs
• Falls from height: Slips and falls from ships, scaffolding, ladders and loading platforms can cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones
• Equipment accidents: Forklifts, cranes, winches and other heavy machinery can malfunction or be operated improperly, leading to serious harm
• Repetitive stress injuries: The constant lifting, pulling and twisting required in cargo handling often results in chronic back problems, shoulder damage and joint deterioration
• Chemical and asbestos exposure: Prolonged contact with toxic substances used in ship construction and maintenance can cause respiratory diseases, cancer and other long-term health conditions

These injuries can leave workers unable to perform their jobs temporarily or permanently. Recognizing the severity of your condition and your rights under federal law is essential to protecting your future.

Understanding LHWCA Benefits Available To Injured Workers

The LHWCA provides several types of benefits designed to support injured longshoremen and harbor workers during their recovery and beyond. Knowing what compensation you may be entitled to receive helps you make informed decisions about your claim. Available benefits under the LHWCA include:

• Medical treatment coverage: The act covers all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your workplace injury, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, medication and ongoing treatment
• Disability compensation: Depending on your condition, you may qualify for temporary total disability, temporary partial disability, permanent total disability or permanent partial disability payments that replace a portion of your lost wages
• Vocational rehabilitation: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous position, you may receive assistance with job retraining, education and placement services to help you transition to suitable employment

The amount and duration of these benefits depend on the specific circumstances of your injury and your employment status. Navigating the claims process requires thorough documentation and understanding of federal maritime regulations. Our attorneys help injured workers obtain every benefit they deserve.

Fighting For You

Obtaining compensation under the LHWCA is no simple process, however. The laws and caselaw are complicated, and there are countless nuances in every individual case. Our lawyers know the law, and we know the system. We can help you obtain the compensation you need after a serious accident.

Contact Our Lawyers

If you believe that you are a longshoreman or harbor worker who has suffered an injury or disease due to a workplace hazard, our attorneys at Munch and Munch, P.A., can help you file for disability compensation and medical care under LHWCA.

Call 888-976-3759 or email us to discuss your potential claim.