Seven Common Types of Longshoreman Accidents

Let’s face it – the list of possible risks and injuries associated with the maritime industry is lengthy. Longshoremen, harbor workers, ship repairers and other maritime employees put their lives in danger on a daily basis. They work with heavy machinery and often have to perform their job duties at great heights. Accidents are bound to happen.

Some of the most common types of longshoreman accidents include the following:

• Slip and falls
• Electrocutions
• Crane accidents
• Fires
• Drowning accidents
• Equipment-related accidents
• Scaffolding accidents

Any of these accidents can result in life-altering injuries, even death. Longshoremen have been known to suffer from serious burns, bone fractures and traumatic amputations. Head, neck and back injuries are also rampant in the industry.

Know Your Rights

If you or a family member has been hurt while working as a longshoreman, you need to understand your legal rights. While the Jones Act protects injured seamen, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) protects longshoremen. Under this law, injured workers, including longshoremen, harbor workers, ship repairmen, ship builders and ship breakers, may be able to recover compensation and medical treatment for job-related injuries and illnesses.

If the accident resulted in death, the surviving dependents may be entitled to benefits. Death benefits include funeral expenses and a percentage of the deceased worker’s weekly salary.

When an accident involves a third party, additional compensation may be available. For more information, contact an experienced maritime attorney.

We Can Help

The maritime lawyers at the Law Offices of Vujasinovic & Beckcom have extensive experience in representing injured longshoremen and other workers. We know the concerns that you have following an accident. Our staff understands that you are worried about who will pay your medical bills and how you will cover your living expenses. That is why we will do everything in our power to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

For answers to your questions or a free case evaluation, contact us today at 877.724.7800. 



Be sure to order a FREE copy of maritime lawyer Brian Beckcom’s book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Maritime Injury Case. It has information you need to read, as an injured longshoreman.