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Maritime work is crucial to the global economy and involves numerous risks and challenges. Maritime injuries are, therefore, common and can be severe, leading to death, permanent disabilities, and financial losses. If you or your loved one has been injured while working on a vessel or offshore, it is essential to seek the services of a maritime injury lawyer. But what exactly does a maritime injury lawyer do?
Overview of Maritime Injury Law
Maritime injury law is a complex field that involves federal and state statutes, international treaties, and common law principles. The laws governing maritime injuries are different from those regulating land-based accidents, and they cover a wide range of issues, including compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and disability. Additionally, maritime injury law addresses the unique challenges maritime workers face, such as the Jones Act, Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and the Death on the High Seas Act.
What Does a Maritime Injury Lawyer Do?
A maritime injury attorney is a legal expert who advocates for clients injured or lost their lives while working in the maritime sector. Maritime injury lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations that govern maritime injuries, and they use their expertise to help their clients recover the compensation they deserve.
Here are some of the specific tasks that a maritime injury lawyer does:
1. Investigates the Accident
One of the primary roles of a maritime injury lawyer is to investigate the accident to determine the cause and the responsible parties. This involves interviewing witnesses, reviewing the vessel’s maintenance records, and analyzing other relevant evidence. By conducting a thorough investigation, the lawyer can build a strong case that proves liability and helps their client recover maximum compensation.
2. Determines the Applicable Law
Maritime injury law is complex, and it can be challenging to determine which laws apply to a particular case. A maritime injury lawyer can help their client navigate this legal landscape by analyzing the facts of the case and identifying the relevant statutes and regulations. This ensures that the client’s rights are protected, and they receive the compensation they are entitled to under the law.
3. Assists with Insurance Claims
Maritime employers are required to carry insurance that covers their employees’ injuries. However, insurance companies are for-profit entities that are focused on minimizing payouts. A maritime injury lawyer can help their client negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that they receive the full compensation they are entitled to under the policy.
4. Represents Clients in Court
A maritime injury lawyer can represent their client in court if negotiations with the insurance company fail to yield a fair settlement. A skilled lawyer with experience in maritime injury law can present a compelling case that proves liability and demonstrates the extent of their client’s damages. The lawyer can help their client recover maximum compensation for their injuries by doing so.
5. Provides Legal Advice
Maritime injury lawyers represent their clients in court and provide legal advice. They can help clients understand their rights, explain the legal process, and answer any questions. This can be particularly helpful for clients unfamiliar with maritime injury law and the legal system in general.
Conclusion
Maritime injury law is a complex and specialized field that requires a deep understanding of federal and state statutes, international treaties, and common law principles. A maritime injury lawyer has the expertise and experience to help clients recover the compensation they deserve after an injury or death while working in the maritime industry. By investigating the accident, determining the applicable law, assisting with insurance claims, representing clients in court, and providing legal advice, maritime injury lawyers can help their clients navigate this challenging legal landscape and achieve the best possible outcome.
Maritime accidents can be devastating, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The knowledgeable maritime injury lawyers at Jehl Law Group are here to support you through the legal process. Get in touch with us today to secure the representation you need.