Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
There are risks present in any work environment, but some jobs are more dangerous than others. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), job-related conditions in the maritime industry carry significant threats to the lives and health of employees. Commercial fishing is extremely perilous, while individuals in the water transportation field are subject to a fatality rate that is almost five times the rate for all American workers.
Because of these risks, there are multiple laws that protect maritime and longshore workers. With help from a Miami maritime accident lawyer, you can recover the compensation you’re entitled to under the statutes that apply to your situation. An attorney can handle the following important tasks.
Pursue Compensation Under Maritime Laws
A maritime accidents lawyer is well-versed in laws designed to protect injured maritime workers, such as:
· The Jones Act
· The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)
These laws allow workers to claim compensation for injuries sustained while working on ships, docks, or other maritime facilities. The lawyer helps gather evidence to prove negligence or unsafe conditions that contributed to the injury. They also ensure all legal documents are filed within the required timelines, helping injured workers secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering in Florida courts or through settlements.
Handles Complex Legal Proceedings
Maritime accident cases are notoriously complex, often involving federal laws and overlapping jurisdictions. A skilled Miami maritime accident lawyer ensures injured workers do not face these challenges alone. They determine whether the case falls under admiralty law or state jurisdiction and identify the best legal strategy.
The lawyer also represents clients in hearings, negotiations, or trials, ensuring procedural requirements are met. With expertise in maritime regulations, they help injured workers overcome legal hurdles and focus on recovery while the lawyer handles court filings, evidence collection, and any disputes that arise during the claim process.
Negotiates with Employers and Insurance Companies
Employers and their insurance companies often attempt to reduce compensation claims, leaving injured maritime workers vulnerable. A Miami maritime accident lawyer negotiates aggressively to secure fair settlements. They will:
· Evaluate the full extent of injuries
· Factoring in future medical costs and rehabilitation needs
· Ensure that you receive proper amounts for lost earning capacity
Using this data, they advocate for just compensation, countering lowball offers and legal defenses used by employers. With local expertise in Miami and Florida’s maritime industries, the lawyer ensures injured workers receive the maximum benefits allowed under maritime law, avoiding delays and unjust denials that could jeopardize their financial recovery.
Speak to a Miami Maritime Accidents Attorney for Free
These are just a few of the tasks an experienced lawyer can handle on your behalf. If you or a loved one were injured in a maritime accident, the attorneys at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, are here to help. With offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, our team is ready to provide personalized legal guidance and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (305) 371-6000 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation with an experienced maritime accident attorney.
