Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Miami is home to a busy, robust maritime industry that employs a wide range of workers to support port-related activities. These jobs are inherently dangerous, leaving many people with questions about their options after getting hurt on the job. Were you injured in a maritime accident in Miami? You may have legal rights under the Jones Act or Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, including medical care and lost wages.
It is important to act quickly to protect your claim and secure compensation, and you can rely on a Miami maritime accidents lawyer to handle all essential tasks. Still, you should get the basics about your legal rights after being hurt at work.
Your Legal Rights After a Maritime Accident in Miami
Whether your accident occurred on a vessel, dock, or shipyard, you may be protected by a type of federal workers’ compensation system under the Department of Labor. These rights can include:
- Medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Compensation for permanent injuries
Common Maritime Injuries Longshore Workers Face
Maritime workers in Miami often perform physically demanding tasks in hazardous environments. Slips on wet decks, falls from heights, heavy equipment accidents, and exposure to harmful chemicals are frequent causes. Common injuries include:
- Back injuries
- Broken bones
- Shoulder damage
- Head trauma
- Repetitive stress injuries
Even minor injuries can worsen if not treated properly. Longshore workers must report any injury immediately to preserve their legal rights. Prompt reporting and medical care are critical for building a strong maritime injury claim.
How Do the Laws Protect Injured Maritime Workers in Miami?
The Jones Act gives seamen the right to sue their employer for negligence. The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) covers non-seamen such as dockworkers, crane operators, and shipbuilders. These laws provide compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages. However, Florida workers’ compensation laws do not usually apply to maritime injuries, making it important to understand which federal law covers your case.
How to File a Maritime Injury Claim in Miami, FL
Filing a maritime injury claim in Miami requires quick and careful action, so start by reporting your injury to your supervisor immediately. Next, seek medical attention and document all treatment.
Depending on your job status, you may need to file under the Jones Act or the LHWCA. Strict deadlines apply, so working with a maritime injury attorney in Miami can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Consult with a Miami Maritime Accidents Attorney for Free
Now that you know your legal rights, make it a priority to reach out to an experienced legal team right away. Waiting too long could affect your ability to recover full compensation, as strict deadlines apply to maritime injury claims. The attorneys at Gerson & Schwartz, PA have decades of experience helping injured maritime workers throughout South Florida. To protect your rights and explore your legal options, please visit us online or call (305) 371-6000 to schedule a free consultation. We can meet with you at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.
