At Morgan & Morgan, our maritime attorneys handle Maritime and Admiralty personal injury claims that occur on or near the water on behalf of seamen, crewmen, longshoremen and boaters. We represent people for Jones Act claims, recreational boater claims, and serious cruise line passenger and crew claims (e.g., sexual assaults). Our focus is on representing individuals that suffer maritime personal injuries on cargo and merchant vessels, tankers, pleasure boats, tugs, barges, spud barges, ferries, cruise ships, wave runners, jet skies, casino boats, shrimp boats, and watercraft of all kinds. We also handle claims for people injured near the water on docks, cranes, and loaders as well as those participating in other maritime-related activities.

Under maritime and admiralty law, the vessel owner has a duty to provide a vessel that is reasonably fit for its intended use, is stocked with proper equipment, has a competent crew, and is a safe place to work and live. If you or a loved one feels that you have a possible maritime injury claim, please fill out our free, no risk case evaluation form.

We understand and empathize with Maritime workers that have been hurt on the job. Your job and the circumstances surrounding it can be dangerous. Sometimes, you are required by your employer to work under conditions that make a dangerous job extremely hazardous. You have rights and remedies available under the Jones Act; you are allowed to seek compensation directly from your employer or the vessel owner for injuries that occur due to your employer's negligence and even the unseaworthiness of the vessel. Under the Jones Act, your employer owes you the duty to provide a safe working environment, even if you are working a notoriously dangerous occupation.

Regardless of fault, a seaman who is injured has a right to "maintenance and cure." In other words, the employer is responsible to pay for daily allowance and medical care. But these damages do not preclude a seaman from bringing a legitimate claim under the Jones Act. A Seaman may also recover for injuries sustained as a result of the negligence of a third party. These claims are similar to general negligence claims and can be filed in conjunction with a Jones Act claim.

The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) also provides benefits to injured maritime workers who are not covered by the Jones Act or state workers' compensation laws. Maritime workers who typically qualify for LHWCA benefits include those engaged in longshore operations, harbor work, maritime construction and the loading, unloading, building and repairing of vessels. Injured maritime workers who file for benefits under the LHWCA can receive medical care, disability benefits and vocational rehabilitation. If you were injured at work and suspect you qualify for LWHCA benefits, fill out our free case evaluation form to speak with a maritime attorney.