When you work on the water and around ships, yards, and docks, you probably do not spend much time thinking about the difference between these laws. However, if you suffer workplace injury, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) OR the Jones Act will be at the forefront of your legal remedies. Both statutes are akin to a type of federal workers’ compensation program, but they apply to very different employment situations. As with many legal claims, the details matter – particularly the definitions and rules on eligibility.
If you were hurt while working on or around boats or water, it is likely that you can file a claim under one of these laws. You can trust a Miami workplace injuries attorney to address the specifics on Longshore versus Jones Act claims, but reviewing the basics is helpful.
Key Definitions