Maritime Attorneys

The Nature of Working at Sea

Working on a ship or a large vessel can be quite hazardous work. Accidents happen often enough that laws, rules, and regulations have been put into place to protect workers at sea. Working off the coast provides a very different and very unique working environment, and this sometimes includes very dangerous working conditions. Congress passed the Jones Act and other laws to help alleviate some of these issues.

Workers that are injured need protection. Too often the injury is caused by the carelessness of the employer and not the actual worker. This can include an overworked and very fatigued worker that is continually willing to take on more and longer work days. Employers know that workers are trapped on the boat with nothing else to do but work, so they take full advantage of this situation. This also includes a worker who finds himself on an "unseaworthy" vessel.

All of these types of issues fall under the realm of maritime law. This area of law is quite complex. There are many considerations and factors that play into any one maritime law case. For example, vessels move in and out of jurisdictions. Depending on the location of the vessel and when the worker is injured may affect the outcome of a settlement and what rules may apply.

If you have been injured while at sea or have a family member who has, you probably have a lot of questions and may be feeling quite overwhelmed. This is the time to make some important decisions. The first is to decide if you have received all medical treatment necessary to begin that road to recovery. The second step it to contact an attorney.

Contacting the right attorney may greatly affect the outcome of your situation. Some attorneys do not have the knowledge of this type of law, nor the experience, nor the time. Maritime attorneys dedicate themselves to this practice area. Maritime attorneys know where to start, have in-depth knowledge of the relevant part of the law, including the Jones Act, and have the time and resources already in place to take on your case.

Maritime attorneys understand the employment issues that come up when a worker is injured. They act as the advocate of the employee, arguing issues involving wages, compensation, and even contract disputes. They will be your advocate in all pertinent areas. The maritime attorneys of Williams Kherkher do in fact act as advocates since they have the knowledge, the experience, and the resources for these types of cases.

There is a statue of limitation that may affect you depending on how long ago you were injured. Do not wait any longer. Contact an attorney at Williams Kherkher today to schedule your free consultation.