Longshore and Harbor Worker's Compensation Act
The Longshore and Harbor Worker's Compensation Act covers maritime employees who are not seamen but who are injured during maritime employment on navigable waters. Maritime employment includes loading, unloading, building and repairing vessels. Those injured on docks, piers, wharves or bridges are covered by the Act.
Unlike maritime laws governing seamen, the Act provides workers' compensation benefits that do not depend on finding the employer at fault. The Act provides medical and disability benefits as well as rehabilitation services and death benefits to survivors. Diseases that "arise naturally" from marine employment are included under the Act. A formal claim for benefits must be filed with the Department of Labor within one year of the injury.
Claims may also be made against a vessel's owner if the injury occurred on the vessel. Unseaworthiness claims, reserved for seamen, may not be filed under the Act.
If you or a loved one does not meet seaman status but was injured or killed while employed on navigable waters, it may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be time limits within which you must commence suit.
Attorneys associated with InjuryBoard.com will evaluate your case free of charge. In addition, you will not pay any fees or costs unless your attorney recovers money for you. Please click on the free Ask An Attorney button to take advantage of this valuable service.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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