What is the ‘Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act’ and how does it affect my claim?

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal law that provides workers’ compensation benefits to maritime workers who are injured or contract occupational diseases during the course of their employment. This law is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor and is distinct from state workers’ compensation laws. In Texas, the LHWCA applies to all workers who are injured while working as longshoremen, harbor workers, fishermen, and other workers who work on navigable waters. This may include dockworkers, deckhands, welders, carpenters, and repairmen who perform tasks related to loading, unloading, repairing, building, or breaking vessels. Under the LHWCA, maritime workers who are injured on the job can receive medical care, wage replacement, and benefits to cover vocational rehabilitation. The LHWCA also provides death benefits to the dependents of employees who are killed in the course of their work. The LHWCA is very important to maritime employees in Texas, since it provides them with worker’s compensation benefits that they would not otherwise be entitled to. This law ensures that injured maritime workers are able to receive compensation for their losses, so they can focus on their recovery and get back to work. Furthermore, the LHWCA provides a valuable safety net for workers’ families, in the event that their loved one is killed in a maritime accident.

Related FAQs

Is there a limit to the amount of time I can take to file a maritime injury claim?
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What if the vessel I am working on is not adequately maintained?
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What if I was injured by a fellow seaman or crew member?
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What is the ‘vessel owner’s liability’ and how does it affect my claim?
Can I file a suit against the owners of ships or other vessels?
How can I seek compensation for my pain and suffering?

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