Offshore Lawyer Outlines Victim Rights Following Crane Accidents

If you or a loved one was injured in a Mobile crane accident, you likely feel overwhelmed by what to do next. Fortunately, an experienced Alabama offshore attorney can guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are fully protected following the accident. What are the legal rights of Mobile crane accident victims?

1.  Longshore and Harbor Worker’s Compensation Act

This federal law protects dock workers, longshoremen, and harbor workers. It was passed with the goal of providing benefits following an injury, including a percentage of average weekly income, medical benefits, and employment rehabilitation services.

2.  Longshore and Harbor Worker’s Compensation Act, Section 905(b)

In addition to the other protections afforded by this Act, Section 905(b) allows for a claim for damages to be brought against the non-employer owner of a ship if the owner caused the injuries in question.

3.  Jones Act

The Jones Act covers the injured victim if he or she is the master or member of the crew of the vessel. The Act allows victims to bring a claim for damages against any of the following:

• Ship owner
• Captain
• Crewmembers

It permits damages for maintenance and cure, past and future lost wages, disfigurement, impairment, and loss of enjoyment of life.

4.  Product liability claim

The injured maritime worker may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer of the crane if it is determined that the product design or malfunction caused the injury.

5.  Third-party claims

Following the crane accident, the injured victim may be entitled to damages from third parties other than those covered by Section 905(b). These potential claims allow the victim to recover full compensation for the injuries incurred.

For more information and a free consultation from an experienced offshore attorney, call (877) 724-7800.