Keeping records after your back injury will help us to help you

The advice to serve as your own legal secretary after your back injury does not mean to serve as your own attorney. On the contrary, it is to help your attorney to help you. Let’s explain.

Every offshore accident or injury has the potential to turn into a legal action. When this happens, don’t be surprised that if you stand up for your rights, instead of taking a lowball settlement offer,  your employer’s attorneys will eventually blame you for the injuries instead of the faulty winch or rusty railing that was the real culprit.

For this and other reasons, you must be armed with as many facts and figures as possible to assist your case. The best way to do this is to keep a log of events, not only from the time of injury, but before the accident, if possible.

For example, if you see any dangerous equipment or conditions on the vessel, write then down in a notebook. If the safety hazards have been reported, note them. If the hazards are not adequately addressed, note them.

Record as much data about the accident as possible including weather conditions, sea state and witness names and statements. Don’t rely upon the company’s records of witness statements; you have the right to conduct your own investigation. Continue this record-keeping process into the post-accident stage.

Write down as many questions as possible for your doctor. Ask family and friends to share advice. One advantage that you have over the company’s lawyers is that you are the direct witness to the incident that caused your injury; the attorneys weren’t there and have to rely on the memories and statements of other persons who in all likelihood did not take copious notes as you did.

Armed with the facts that you have gathered, your attorneys will have a distinct advantage over the other side. So you will be helping your maritime lawyer to help you.