What if I have been injured while working aboard a vessel?
If you have been injured while working aboard a vessel in Washington, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Under maritime law, there are two different types of claims that you can bring depending on the circumstances of your injury: a Jones Act claim or a claim under the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA). If your injury was caused by the negligence of a fellow crewmember or your employer, then you may be entitled to bring a Jones Act claim. This type of claim is based on the negligence of those responsible for your injury, and if successful, will entitle you to damages including compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Alternatively, if your injury resulted from a hazard associated with working on a vessel or dock, you may be eligible to bring a LHWCA claim. This type of claim is based on the doctrine of “no-fault” and entitles you to compensation regardless of fault. However, the LHWCA has strict eligibility requirements which must be met in order to bring a successful claim. If you have been injured while working on a vessel, it is important to speak to an experienced maritime lawyer who can assess your case and advise you on the best course of action. With the right amount of knowledge and representation, you may be able to obtain the compensation that you deserve for your injuries.
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