Louisiana’s coastline and the Gulf of America are home to a thriving offshore industry. From oil rigs to fishing vessels, many people work on the water. But this work can be dangerous, and accidents happen. If you work offshore and get injured, it’s important to know your rights.
At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we’ve been helping injured workers in Louisiana for 30 years. We understand the unique challenges faced by maritime workers, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
What is Maritime Law?
Maritime law is a special set of laws that apply to accidents and injuries that happen on navigable waters. This includes:
- The high seas
- Rivers
- Lakes
- Canals
Maritime law is complex, and it’s different from the laws that apply to accidents on land.
Who is Considered a Maritime Worker?
A maritime worker is someone who works on a vessel or offshore structure. This can include:
- Oil rig workers
- Commercial fishermen
- Longshoremen (people who load and unload ships)
- Seamen (people who work on ships)
- Anyone else who spends a significant amount of time working on or around the water
Common Types of Offshore Injuries
Offshore work is dangerous, and workers can suffer a variety of injuries, including:
- Falls from heights
- Injuries from heavy equipment
- Burns
- Drowning or near-drowning
- Injuries from explosions or fires
- Injuries caused by exposure to hazardous materials
Your Rights as a Maritime Worker
If you’re a maritime worker, you have certain rights that protect you if you get injured on the job. These rights come from different laws, including:
- The Jones Act: This federal law allows seamen who are injured due to their employer’s negligence to sue their employer for damages.
- The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA): This federal law provides workers’ compensation benefits to maritime workers who are injured on the job, but not seamen.
- General Maritime Law: This is a body of law that covers a variety of maritime issues, including injuries to passengers and visitors on vessels.
What to Do If You’re Injured Offshore
If you’re injured while working offshore, it’s important to take these steps:
- Report the injury: Tell your supervisor or employer about your injury as soon as possible.
- Seek medical attention: Get medical treatment right away, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.
- Gather information: If possible, get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
- Document the incident: Take photos or videos of the accident scene and your injuries, if you can.
- Contact a maritime lawyer: An experienced maritime lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
Compensation for Offshore Injuries
If you’re injured while working offshore, you may be able to get money to help with your losses. This can include:
- Medical expenses: Costs of treatment for your injuries.
- Lost wages: Money you lost because you couldn’t work.
- Future lost earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working in the future.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for your physical and emotional distress.
Statistics: The Dangers of Offshore Work
- Fatal Occupational Injuries: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the oil and gas extraction industry, which includes many offshore jobs, consistently has one of the highest rates of fatal occupational injuries in the U.S.
- High Injury Rates: The offshore industry has a significantly higher rate of injuries compared to many other industries. (Source: Cite a specific study or report on offshore injury rates if possible)
- Common Causes of Injuries: Falls, equipment malfunctions, and explosions are among the leading causes of offshore injuries.
Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers: Your Louisiana Maritime Injury Attorneys
At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we have a deep understanding of maritime law and a proven track record of success in representing injured maritime workers.
- 30 Years of Experience: We’ve been helping people in Louisiana for over 30 years, and we have the experience to handle complex maritime injury cases.
- Local Expertise: We’re familiar with the courts and legal procedures in Louisiana, which can be helpful in your case.
- No Fee Unless We Win: You don’t pay us anything unless we get you money for your case.
Don’t Face This Alone
If you’ve been injured while working offshore, don’t hesitate to contact Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate this difficult journey alone. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
