If you are a victim of a devastating longshore accident, you have certain rights that you should be aware of. The first thing that you need to do is contact a San Diego longshore accident attorney who will help you decide on the next step in pursuing compensation for your injuries. A good longshore accident lawyer in Cueria Law Firm will help you determine if you qualify for worker’s compensation benefits. If you are a qualified employee, you may also qualify for other worker’s compensation benefits, such as medical benefits and disability compensation. As well, the lawyer may also be able to help you obtain compensation for mental suffering, economic loss, and past and future care costs associated with your injury.
Workers’ compensation benefits offered by the longshore and transportation accidents insurance provider (i.e., the port of call in case of a ship collision or grounding) will pay you a lump sum amount for your injuries, lost wages, and past and future medical expenses. These benefits are designed to provide longshore workers who have suffered injuries at work, or their family members, with monetary assistance. However, not all cases will qualify for workers compensation benefits, especially if the worker has a previous history of similar injuries at work. Therefore, it is important that you retain the services of a skilled San Diego longshore accident lawyer. When choosing a lawyer to represent you, the following should be considered:
* The nature of your job. There are three main types of longshore accidents: terminal slips, pipe and dock accidents, and marine terminal slips. Based on the type of slip or accident, your compensation will vary. If your slip or accident occurred on a pier and involved injuries such as cuts and abrasions, permanent damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, or even death from blunt force trauma, you may be entitled to immediate cash benefits. In the case of a marine terminal slip, the amount of lost wages due to the terminal accident, coupled with unemployment benefits and past medical bills, are additional longshore accident benefits you may recover.
* Damages caused by the water damage. It is unlawful to operate a water vessel when there is a high risk of harm to others. If you have been injured as a result of the water damage in your workplace, or while in the process of completing your daily activities on the job, you should contact a longshore accident lawyer to discuss your case. Most states have a maximum liability law, which requires employers to compensate employees for water damage and personal injury resulting from their workplace activities. Contact a San Diego law firm to discuss your case today.
* Lost wages. Not only does a slip or fall mean financial disaster for your family, but it can also mean missed days of work. The onshore and marine transportation workers compensation insurance provides longshore workers with financial assistance in case they are injured on the job. Unfortunately, sometimes injured workers do not receive the full amount of the compensation they deserve. If you have suffered a serious injury at your workplace, you should immediately contact a San Diego law firm to discuss your case. Workers’ compensation often provides longshore and maritime workers with the financial means to repair their medical expenses and compensate them for lost wages.
* Medical expenses. Even if you are not permanently injured on the job, the longshore and marine transportation workers compensation insurance may cover the cost of emergency medical treatment. Even if you are not currently hurt on the job, the longshore accident attorney who represents you may be able to help you recoup lost wages, medical expenses and rehabilitation. Contact a San Diego lawyer today for a free consultation.