Call Us Today Were you injured while performing your job duties as an offshore worker in the maritime industry? At Viles & Beckman, we know that people like you face numerous dangers as part of your line of work, and we are here for those who have been injured on the job.
Whether you work on oil rigs, fishing vessels, cargo ships, or other structures we haven’t named, our Fort Myers offshore injuries lawyer can help. With over 40 years of combined experience, we’ve recovered more than $100 million for personal injury victims just like you.
If you or a loved one has been injured while working offshore, reach out to a Fort Myers personal injury lawyer. The sooner you take action and call an attorney, the sooner your legal counsel can look into the details of your situation and start building a case on your behalf.
What are the Different Types of Offshore Injuries?
Offshore injuries refer to the harm that is sustained by individuals who work in the maritime and offshore industries. These injuries can stem from hazardous conditions, inadequate safety measures, equipment failures, or human error.
These are more specific examples of common offshore injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): This type of injury can arise when you fall, have an accident caused by heavy machinery, or get struck by dangerous objects.
- Spinal cord injuries: Often caused by falls or accidents involving heavy equipment, injuries involving your spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Burns and explosions: Unfortunately, burns and explosions are common on oil rigs and vessels where flammable materials are present.
- Broken bones and fractures: It’s not uncommon for people to fracture or break their bones as a result of slipping, tripping, or falling. In some cases, these injuries can happen when equipment malfunctions.
- Drowning and near–drowning incidents: These often result from someone falling overboard or when safety equipment doesn’t perform as intended.
- Repetitive motion injuries: Many offshore workers have to perform the same tasks day in and day out. This level of repetition can cause injuries due to the physically demanding conditions.
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Legal Protections for Offshore Workers
Offshore injuries are governed by specific laws that protect people who work in the maritime industry. These laws are intended to provide avenues for injured workers to seek justice and pursue compensation for their injuries. They also strive to hold negligent parties accountable.
The Jones Act
Formally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act is a federal law that allows seamen to pursue compensation if their injuries are the result of employer negligence.
To qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, you must spend a significant portion of your work on a vessel in navigation.
Under the Jones Act, if you are eligible, you may recover damages for:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages or loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)
The LHWCA protects non-seamen maritime workers. These include dock workers, harbor workers, and those involved in the building or repair process of ships. This act offers compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages.
Plus, thanks to this law, those who qualify can seek justice without having to prove negligence first.
General Maritime Law
General maritime law encompasses legal principles that apply to injuries that are sustained at sea. This includes the doctrine of unseaworthiness, which requires vessel owners to ensure their ships are safe and adequately equipped.
If a vessel is deemed unseaworthy, injured workers may pursue claims for damages.
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Causes of Offshore Injuries
Offshore injuries can arise for a number of reasons, though they are often due to the inherently dangerous nature of maritime work. That said, here are examples of common causes of offshore injuries:
- Slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and inadequate safety protocols
- Malfunctioning machinery, poorly maintained tools, or defective equipment
- Failing to provide proper training for workers
- Mistakes made by coworkers or supervisors
- Situations stemming from fatigue or a lack of focus
- Rough seas, high winds, and other weather conditions
Click To ContactWhat Type of Compensation Can a Fort Myers Offshore Injuries Lawyer Pursue for You?
If you’ve been injured in an offshore accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care
- Income that you missed out on while recovering from your injuries
- Diminished earning capacity if you’re unable to return to work.
- Monetary compensation for physical pain and emotional distress
- Temporary or permanent disabilities resulting from the accident
- The death of a loved one due to offshore-related injuries
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What is the Statute of Limitations for Offshore Injury Claims?
The statute of limitations for offshore injury claims is typically two years. This is because offshore injury claims fall into the category of personal injury cases, which are held to a 24-month timeline. As a result, you must act quickly if you’ve been injured offshore.
These claim-filing deadlines are strict, and it’s necessary that you adhere to them if you are interested in pursuing compensation for your injuries. That said, different laws and circumstances might influence the deadline that applies to your case.
For clarity on what to expect and how long you have to file your personal injury claim, contact a Fort Myers lawyer with experience handling offshore injury cases.
Reach Out to Our Fort Myers Offshore Injuries Law Firm Today
It’s no secret that offshore workers perform vital yet dangerous jobs that are crucial to the success and longevity of the economy. However, as imperative as these roles are, many workers take on responsibilities that carry a high risk of injuries.
When offshore workers get hurt, the impact not only on the workers but also on their families can be devastating. At Viles & Beckman, our Fort Myers offshore injury attorneys fully understand how life-altering offshore injuries can be, and we want to be there for you every step of the way.
No case is too small, and we make it a point to treat every situation with the utmost level of care. When you reach out to us, you can expect a five–star experience. We are The 5-Star Law Firm®, after all. Call now to learn more about Viles & Beckman and how we can help.
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