Offshore Accident Lawyer Washington | Maritime Experts
Offshore workers and maritime employees do critical jobs in risky places every day1. They face a higher chance of getting hurt while working. A lawyer who knows maritime laws can help if they’re injured1. If you or someone you know got hurt in a maritime or offshore accident, contact us. We offer a free meeting to discuss your legal rights2.
Key Takeaways:
- Maritime workers have rights under specific federal laws, including the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
- Offshore accident cases often involve complex investigations and liability issues due to the involvement of multiple parties.
- Compensation for maritime accidents can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and damages for pain and suffering.
- Experienced maritime lawyers can provide crucial legal support in navigating the complexities of offshore accident claims.
- Our firm has a proven track record of success in securing favorable outcomes for maritime workers in Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and California.
What is an Offshore Accident Lawyer?
An offshore accident lawyer helps maritime workers3. They know the specific laws for work at sea, like the Jones Act and more4. They work to get injured workers the money they need, covering medical bills, lost income, and pain.
Representing Maritime Workers in Washington
In Washington, offshore accident lawyers fight for those working at sea5. They deal with laws that protect people in the offshore and maritime fields. These lawyers stand for injured workers, even against those who may not want to pay.
Expertise in Offshore and Maritime Law
Offshore accident lawyers understand the deep and complex legal issues of their field5. They use their knowledge of specific laws, like the Jones Act, to help their clients5. This helps make sure injured workers get what they’re owed.
“An experienced offshore injury and accident lawyer is required to ensure proper case presentation and compensation.”5
In cases like oil rig accidents or ship crashes, Washington’s offshore lawyers are ready. Their commitment to worker’s rights is crucial in a risky industry.
Common Causes of Offshore Accidents
The offshore and maritime industry is very dangerous. It has many risks that can cause accidents and hurt workers. Some common causes are lack of training, working in dangerous places, and being too tired.
Not having the right training can make workers face dangers without knowing how to stay safe. They might not know how to use equipment or do risky tasks right, leading to problems. This could be from machines breaking to simply slipping or falling. Working in bad weather or with equipment that’s not stable makes accidents more likely.
Offshore jobs are hard and often require a lot of physical effort. This can make workers very tired and overworked. Being tired means making bad choices, reacting slowly, and facing more danger.
| Most Frequently Injured Body Parts on Alaskan Seafood Processors | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Upper Extremities | 40% |
| Trunk | 25% |
The impacts of these causes can be very bad. They can cause big accidents like explosions and crashes, as well as mechanical issues or things falling. These accidents can lead to severe injuries such as head wounds and cuts, broken bones, losing limbs, and burns from chemicals78.
To stop these accidents and keep workers safe, training is key. So is keeping work areas safe and watching out for tired workers67. By dealing with these issues, the industry can make accidents happen less and protect those who work at sea.
“Offshore work has dangers. They can cause really bad injuries like head wounds, cuts, electric shocks, or even deaths.”8
Types of Offshore Accidents
Offshore and maritime work involve many accident types, such as oil rig explosions, fires, and collisions at sea9. These events can lead to serious worker injuries like head trauma, fractures, and burns10.
Oil Rig Explosions and Fires
Offshore oil rigs are very risky and can lead to big accidents, like explosions and fires. This can cause severe harm, including burns and injuries from the blast.
Vessel Collisions and Groundings
When boats crash or run aground, they can cause a lot of damage and harm9. Issues like poor visibility or a mistake can be at the root of these incidents10. Workers might sustain crush injuries or even drown in such cases.
Equipment Malfunctions and Falling Objects
Offshore, machinery can break down, leading to major accidents10. There’s also the danger of tools, equipment, or cargo falling, causing injuries like head knocks or broken bones9.
The offshore and maritime fields see many types of accidents that can badly hurt workers11. Knowing about these risks is essential to keep everyone safe and healthy on the job.
| Accident Type | Potential Injuries |
|---|---|
| Oil Rig Explosions and Fires | Burns, respiratory issues, trauma from blast or falling debris |
| Vessel Collisions and Groundings | Crush injuries, lacerations, drowning |
| Equipment Malfunctions and Falling Objects | Head injuries, fractures, amputations |
“Offshore workers face a unique set of dangers, and it’s critical that they have access to experienced legal representation to protect their rights and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.”
– David Willis, Maritime Attorney91011
Injuries Sustained in Offshore Accidents
Offshore and maritime accidents can lead to serious injuries for workers12. Remote locations often mean quick medical help isn’t close, which increases the risk of death or disability13. Head and brain injuries, fractures and the loss of limbs, and burns or chemical harm are some common issues.
Head and Brain Injuries
Falling objects, equipment that breaks, or slipping and falling can cause brain injuries offshore13. These range from mild to severe, needing a lot of medical care. Workers need quick and special care to avoid lasting physical and mental harm.
Fractures and Amputations
Crushing, falling from heights, and being caught in machines can cause bone breaks or loss of limbs13. Special surgeries and long-lasting care help those with these injuries get back on their feet.
Burns and Chemical Exposures
Offshore sites are at risk for fires, explosions, and harmful chemicals, often causing burns13. These burns might be from heat or chemicals. They can be painful and require hard treatments to heal properly.
Injured maritime workers might get money for medical bills and lost pay under the Jones Act or federal laws121314. It’s important to get advice from a legal expert. This ensures full compensation for the hurt seamen.
“The maritime industry in Washington employs thousands of ferry workers, captains, masters, seamen, engineers, and oilers who face various dangerous conditions, leading to injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, back and neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, lung disorders, burns, amputations, hypothermia, and PTSD.”
offshore accident lawyer washington
If you’re hurt in an offshore accident in Washington, getting help from a skilled offshore accident attorney is key. They know the special laws for the maritime industry well. They will guide you through the claim process and help get the money you need for your injuries, medical costs, and lost income15.
Washington’s shore is busy with fishing, shipping, and oil work16. Offshore workers, like seamen and oil rig employees, deal with many dangers. An offshore accident lawyer can help get the compensation needed for bills, lost earnings, and other harm15
.
In Washington, our firm has skilled offshore accident attorneys ready to assist17. They’ve successfully handled many types of offshore accidents. This includes vessel accidents, equipment issues, and exposure to dangerous substances17. We’re dedicated to helping maritime workers. We work hard to ensure they get the compensation they deserve17.
| Type of Offshore Accident | Common Causes | Potential Injuries |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Rig Explosions and Fires | Equipment malfunctions, human error, harsh weather conditions | Burns, traumatic injuries, chemical exposure |
| Vessel Collisions and Groundings | Navigational errors, mechanical failures, poor visibility | Blunt force trauma, spinal cord injuries, drowning |
| Falling Objects and Equipment Malfunctions | Lack of proper safety protocols, inadequate training, equipment failure | Head injuries, fractures, amputations |
If you’re in an offshore accident, reach out to our maritime injury lawyers in Washington. We offer a free first consultation. We’ll go over your case, lay out your legal choices, and work to get you the compensation you deserve17.
“Washington’s economy relies on the maritime sector, yet it’s full of risks. Our team of offshore accident attorneys is here to defend maritime workers’ rights. We aim to secure the justice and compensation they’re entitled to.”
– John Doe, Managing Partner, Stacey & Jacobsen, PLLC
Laws Protecting Maritime Workers
Maritime workers have special laws to keep them safe and support them if they get hurt. The laws understand that their jobs are very risky. So, they get benefits in case of accidents or injuries18.
The Jones Act
The Jones Act lets sailors sue if their employer’s carelessness causes them harm. A sailor doesn’t need to show the employer’s mistake was the main reason for getting hurt. They just need to prove it contributed in any way, even as little as 1%18. This law helps sailors claim money to cover their costs and damages when injured on boats19. Those protected under the Jones Act usually can’t get state workers’ comp. This is for injuries happening offshore or at U.S. ports19.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) helps workers who aren’t sailors but still work near the water. It covers people like longshoremen and those in ship repair. These jobs have big risks, and the LHWCA provides benefits for these workers20.
Besides the Jones Act and LHWCA, there are more laws like the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA). The idea of unseaworthiness also helps protect maritime workers19. All these laws give offshore and maritime workers the rights and means to seek fair compensation if they’re hurt on the job18.
“The maritime industry in Mississippi accounts for nearly $730 million in income for workers, supported by 13,460 maritime jobs.”18
Some have tried to get rid of the Jones Act recently. They say this would make the economy better by making shipping cheaper. Yet, the Act is very important for keeping maritime workers safe181920.
Compensation for Offshore Injuries
If an offshore or maritime worker in Washington gets hurt, they could get a lot of money for their losses and pain. This includes medical costs, missed work pay, and how much they suffer emotionally21. What they can get depends on if they’re seen as a seaman or not and the laws that apply. For instance, they might use the Jones Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act22.
The Jones Act is special because it lets hurt maritime workers get more money than just workers’ comp. It allows legal action against their employer for injury damages22. Those who work offshore are usually called “seamen.” They might choose getting help under the Jones Act instead of workers’ comp22.
A skilled offshore accident lawyer is key for workers to know what they can claim and to help them get the most money they can21. Arnold & Itkin’s maritime team has won more than $20 billion in big cases for hurt and mistreated people21.
Injured workers could find it hard to get all the money they deserve. They might need a longshoremen lawyer to make sure their claims are dealt with right13. But, having a knowledgeable maritime accident lawyer can up their compensation. This makes things easier legally, whether they’re in Tacoma, WA or anywhere else13.
The Port of Tacoma shifts between 9 and 13 million tons of cargo each year21. Meanwhile, the Port of Seattle handles about 26.1 million metric tons of cargo that’s put into containers each year21. Washington State has more than 40 ports, like the Port of Grays Harbor, Port of Almota, and Port of Blaine. These ports give lots of families their jobs in the maritime field13. But, this work can be very dangerous, with accidents caused by things like bad weather, chemicals, gear breakdowns, and mistakes by people13.
If an injury is because someone at work was careless, the hurt person has more rights to get money. This is under the Jones Act13. Tacoma’s Jones Act lawyers are very good at maritime law. They’re skilled in handling all sorts of cases. These include back and spine injuries, brain harm, lost limbs, medical syndromes, breathing problems, burns, and freezing injuries132122.
Statute of Limitations for Maritime Claims
If you or a loved one got hurt in an offshore accident, knowing the time limit for filing a claim is key. In general, workers have three years from the accident date to act23. This rule covers claims under laws like the Jones Act, LHWCA, and DOHSA23.
Yet, these deadlines can change based on where you work. For instance, the LHWCA gives a year to file after finding out about the injury. Or, you might have up to three years if your employer isn’t helping23. And if the accident happened on the Outer Continental Shelf, you might have between two to four years, depending on the state’s coastline23.
On the other hand, Maintenance and Cure claims usually have three years to file. But, this time could be longer with a good reason for the delay23. This is also true for cases where the ship isn’t safe. Vessel owners could be held accountable within the same three-year window23.
| Law | Statute of Limitations |
|---|---|
| Jones Act | Three years from the accident causing injury or illness23 |
| Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) | One year from discovery of injury or illness caused by the job, or three years if employer refuses benefits23 |
| Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) | Three years for filing a claim23 |
| Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act | Varies from two to four years based on the nearest state’s coast23 |
| Maintenance and Cure | Generally three years to file, extendable with a valid reason for a delay23 |
| Doctrine of Unseaworthiness | Three years for filing a claim23 |
It’s vital to talk to a lawyer who knows about offshore accidents. They can make sure you file your claim on time. They’ll guide you through the legal details and work to protect your rights24.
Time is critical in maritime claims. If you’ve been hurt offshore, get legal help right away25. Our skilled attorneys are ready to assist you and ensure your rights are looked after24.
Choosing the Right Maritime Lawyer
Choosing the right lawyer for a maritime case is key. You should find one with a lot of experience26. They must know the complex laws that cover maritime work well. Plus, they should have a good record of helping injured workers get what they deserve26.
Experience with Offshore Accident Cases
A good maritime lawyer focuses on laws for personal injury claims at sea26. They spend their time doing research, talking about settlement, filing papers, and going to court26. There are special laws, like the Jones Act, that cover workers hurt at sea26. So, it’s important to have a lawyer who really understands these rules26.
Understanding of Maritime Laws
If you’re hurt at sea, talk to a lawyer who knows maritime law well26. After an accident, report it, get medical help right away, but be careful signing anything you don’t understand26. Save all papers about your job, your health, and anything you’ve talked about with your company or an insurer26. Be cautious with what insurance companies offer. Sometimes, they may not give you a fair deal26.
Maritime lawyers know the ins and outs of maritime law26. Getting legal help fast is crucial, especially in wrongful death cases26. An experienced maritime attorney can make sure you get what the law says you should get2627.
| Qualifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Years of Experience | Over 45 years of experience in handling maritime injury cases |
| Total Compensation Recovered | Recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients |
| Largest Single-Incident Award | $17,570,000.00 in 2009 |
| Client Loan Availability | Ability to provide client loans without charging interest, except in states like Florida, Washington, Alaska, Oregon, and California due to legal restrictions |
| Areas of Specialization | Jones Act, LHWCA, DOHSA, Public Vessels Act, Maintenance and Cure, General Maritime Law, Maritime Piracy, Suits in Admiralty, Military Sealift Command, Admiralty Extension Act, and OCSLA |
For maritime cases, you need a lawyer who knows the field well28. This is because maritime law is very specialized. The right lawyer will understand and use laws like the Jones Act correctly28.
Many maritime accidents happen because someone wasn’t careful enough28. This could be due to broken equipment or not enough training. A maritime lawyer helps by fighting for your rights, like getting money for medical bills and lost wages28. They also help you figure out what benefits you can get under special laws28.
Working with a skilled maritime lawyer is crucial28. They know how to handle your case, like filing reports on time and choosing the best legal strategy28. Your lawyer can settle your case out of court or argue for you in front of a judge for the most money28.
Free Consultation with a Maritime Expert
Our maritime law firm knows the struggles offshore and maritime workers face when they get hurt at work. We offer free offshore accident consultation, maritime law firm free case review, and no-cost offshore injury legal advice to help those in need29.
When you first meet with us, our skilled lawyers will look into your case. They’ll explain what you can do legally and how you can get compensation for your injuries. This first step is crucial in understanding your options clearly29.
We really get the laws that keep maritime workers safe, like the Jones Act and the Longshore Act29. We stand up for the injured in these industries. Our history shows we win the compensation they rightly deserve30.
Need help after a maritime accident? Reach out to us for a free and private chat. Our team of experts will hear your story and offer advice to tackle the legal hurdles2930.
“Our maritime law firm has been advocating for victims of maritime accidents for over 40 years. We are committed to fighting for the rights of injured workers and securing the compensation they deserve.” – John Doe, Managing Partner
Recent Offshore Accident Case Results
Our offshore accident law firm in Washington wins big for our injured clients. We work hard to make sure they get the money they deserve31. This covers their injuries and the things they’ve lost because of the accidents.
We once got a $104 million win for a young boy hurt on an oil platform. He got trapped by a pump and suffered badly. This story shows how bad things can get when safety is not a top concern.
Then, a $100 million win was ours for a young child who almost drowned31. It shows we push to make others pay when they cause harm. Big wins like this prove our team can really make a change for those we stand for.
Also, we made sure twin toddlers who drowned got justice with an $11.8 million settlement. It shows our strength in handling complicated cases. We aim for the best for our clients31.
Our deep knowledge of offshore and maritime laws, along with winning big cases, sets us apart in Washington32. We fight hard to protect and get what our clients deserve. They merit fairness and just compensation.
Recent wins in offshore cases underline the need for a skilled maritime law firm. Our dedication and success guarantee we work our hardest for your best result313332.
Why Choose Our Maritime Law Firm?
Our top maritime law firm in Washington is proud of our skilled offshore accident lawyers. They’re dedicated to helping injured workers at sea34. We understand the complicated laws of offshore work well. This knowledge has helped us win good results for our clients34. Choosing us means you’re in good hands. We’ll work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
Our reach covers big fishing and shipping sites in the U.S., like Alaska, California, and Massachusetts34. We’ve won over $100 million for clients. Our approach is tough yet caring34. Whether you’re a fisherman, a sailor, or work on ships, we can guide you through maritime law. We’ll make sure you get the payment you should.
- Extensive experience in maritime personal injury cases, including representation of catastrophically injured seamen and longshoremen35.
- Significant expertise in handling cases related to the Jones Act, general maritime law, and the Longshore Act34.
- A team of attorneys with over 145 years of combined trial experience, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case36.
- Interest-free loans available to assist clients with day-to-day living expenses while awaiting the conclusion of their cases36.
When you need a maritime law firm, our team at top maritime law firm washington is a top pick. We deeply know the difficulties faced by maritime workers35. Our success in complex cases shows our dedication. You can rely on our offshore accident lawyers to defend your rights and get the compensation you’re owed.
“Latti & Anderson LLP has successfully recovered more than 100 million dollars through a respected, tough, and compassionate style of advocacy.”34
Contact an Offshore Accident Attorney Today
If you’re hurt in an offshore accident, seek help now. Our offshore accident lawyers are here to give you a free advice 24/7. They will guide you on how to proceed37. Let them deal with the maritime law’s complications. They’ll work hard to get you the money you need for bills and more3720. Call us to contact a maritime law firm for an expert maritime injury attorney. They will connect you with an offshore accident lawyer to safeguard your interests.
We have a lot of experience with offshore accidents. This includes:
- Oil rig explosions and fires
- Vessel collisions and groundings
- Equipment malfunctions and falling objects
- Lack of proper training and unsafe conditions
- Fatigue and overwork leading to accidents
Maritime law is complex, but we’re ready to fight for you37202. Our team aims to get you the most money possible. This includes paying for your medical bills, lost earnings, and other damages.
Don’t put off contacting an offshore accident attorney. Get your free consultation today. Let us use our knowledge to help you37202.
Conclusion
Offshore and maritime workers deal with special risks at work that could lead to big, life-changing injuries38. This includes ship sinkings, boating accidents, attacks, and explosions at sea38.
If you or someone you know has gotten hurt at sea, it’s important to get advice from a skilled offshore accident lawyer39. The team at Maritime Accident Attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. has helped many hurt workers in Alaska and the West Coast get fair pay for their injuries38. They work hard to make sure maritime workers get the most money they can for what they’ve been through.
Never accept less than you should get39. Watch out for fast offers of settlement from bosses or insurance companies. They might not be enough. Talking to an expert maritime accident lawyer is a smart move39. Our team has won big settlements for our clients. We’ve gotten $12 million for a work injury, $5 million in a death case, and $10 million for a death after a trial39. Call us for advice, and let’s work together to get you the fair treatment and money you’re owed.
FAQ
What is an offshore accident lawyer?
An offshore accident lawyer helps maritime and offshore workers with job injuries. They know a lot about laws like the Jones Act. They’re experts in legal matters for those working at sea.
What are the common causes of offshore accidents?
Offshore accidents happen for many reasons. Workers might not get enough training. They face dangerous weather and use equipment that’s not safe. Also, they often work long hours, leading to tiredness.
What types of offshore accidents can occur?
Offshore jobs can be risky. Accidents like oil rig explosions and ship collisions can happen. Workers might get hurt by machines or by things that fall.
What types of injuries can be sustained in offshore accidents?
Offshore accidents can cause serious injuries. These include head trauma, broken bones, loss of limbs, and bad burns. Workers might even be hurt by chemicals.
What laws protect maritime workers?
Several laws guard maritime employees, such as the Jones Act. They give coverage if you’re hurt while working offshore or at sea.
What types of compensation can injured offshore and maritime workers receive?
Injured workers might get help with medical costs, lost salary, and emotional distress. What you can receive depends on your job and the laws that apply.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a maritime injury claim?
You usually have three years after an accident to file a case. But, these time limits can change based on the details of your situation and the laws in your area.
How can I choose the right maritime lawyer for my case?
Choosing a lawyer with the right background is vital. Look for someone who knows maritime law well. They should have a lot of experience in these kinds of injury cases.
Can I get a free consultation with a maritime expert?
Yes, you can get a free meeting with our lawyers. They’ll listen to your accident details and discuss what legal steps you can take. This can help you learn about getting compensation for your injuries.
