Katy Dock Worker Accident Lawyer

Working as a dock worker or longshoreman can be both rewarding and hazardous. If you are a harbor employee and suffer a broken bone, amputated limb or appendage, hearing loss, or other injury while at work, you may be eligible for benefits. Recovering money for your lost earnings, medical expenses, and other losses may require you to file a claim under state or federal law, such as the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.

Many injured longshoremen find that hiring a Katy dock worker accident lawyer helped them to successfully navigate the nuanced benefits system. Our seasoned maritime injury attorneys have worked with employees who operate in the seaside and shoreside operation, maintenance, and loading and unloading of ships. We would be happy to meet with you and see how we can get you the help you deserve.

Examples of Injuries Experienced by Dock Workers

Longshoremen are exposed to many hazards on a given shift, opening up the possibility of many types of injuries. Examples of harm they may experience on the job include the following, among others:

• Slipping and falling because of slick floors, causing them to hit their head and suffer a traumatic brain injury
• Being struck by cargo or machinery, resulting in broken bones or crush injuries
• Being electrocuted by exposed or faulty wiring, causing burns or nerve damage
• Exposure to hazardous chemicals that make them sick

There are other injuries dock workers may endure, such as neck, back, or repetitive stress conditions. To address these, the employee may have to take on a lower-paying position or forego work entirely while they heal. In severe cases, the stevedore may not be able to work again or may lose their life because of the incident.

Dock worker accident attorneys assist injured employees in Katy by investigating the cause of their condition and seeking compensation. They help people in these positions get the physical and financial support they need so they can pay rent, cover their medical bills, and provide for themselves and their families.

How Can Dock Workers Get a Financial Award for Job-Related Injuries?

Many shoreside maritime employees (like dock workers) can receive benefits if they are injured while doing their jobs. To claim these benefits, eligible stevedores may need to submit a claim under the federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (found at 33 United States Code §§ 901 – 950). This law applies to many (but not all) people who participate in shoreside maritime activities, like repairing ships and loading and unloading vessels.

Depending on the harbor employee’s situation, other state or federal workers’ compensation or civil laws may cover the incident. If the worker is eligible for employment-related benefits, the compensation they might receive includes healthcare expenses and a wage replacement payments. In contrast, if they must bring a personal injury lawsuit, they may receive additional damages, such as pain and suffering, but may need to prove their employer is at fault.

Katy attorneys who handle dock worker claims have the training necessary to determine what laws apply to an accident. They could also help the employee preserve their legal rights by meeting their notice and filing deadlines.

For Legal Help, Call a Dock Worker Accident Attorney in Katy

Longshoremen work hard every day to keep track of shipments, load the freight ships, and perform other critical shoreside maritime tasks. If you are a dock worker and suffered a job-related injury, you may qualify for benefits under state or federal laws. Navigating the claims process on your own might jeopardize your healing process, so consider handing over the legal matters to a successful law firm you can trust.

Every day, our legal team fights for people who are hurt while working on the docks and harbors in the United States. We understand what you might be going through and welcome the chance to serve as your advocate during the legal process. Contact a Katy dock worker accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation.