What is the difference between a maritime injury case and workers’ compensation?

The difference between maritime injury cases and workers’ compensation is the process to seek damages. Maritime injury cases are typically handled under admiralty law, which is different than the laws that apply to workplace injuries. Maritime law grants sailors and other maritime workers the right to sue their employer for damages due to an injury sustained while working at sea or on navigable waters. Workers’ compensation cases are handled under the state’s workers’ compensation laws. In the state of Washington, these laws provide injured workers with a system for obtaining compensation for workplace-related injuries. Unlike maritime law, workers’ compensation does not require injured workers to prove negligence on the part of their employer; rather, the employer pays for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault. Maritime injury cases therefore provide a level of protection greater than what is available under workers’ compensation laws. In Washington, victims of maritime injuries may seek damages through a maritime court if they can prove that the injury was the result of negligence or that a vessel was not seaworthy. Damages may be awarded to cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. In short, maritime injury cases are distinct from workers’ compensation in that they involve suing the employer for damages due to their negligence, whereas workers’ compensation does not involve any such action.

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What is the difference between a maritime injury case and workers’ compensation?

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