Many Florida residents work offshore. If you are among them, it is important to make sure you have a clear understanding of your legal rights—especially when you get injured on the job. Here are five important facts for offshore workers from Florida maritime injury lawyer David P. Willis:
Fact #1: Most Offshore Workers are Entitled to “No-Fault” Benefits When They Get Injured on the Job
There are two primary laws that protect offshore workers: (i) the Jones Act and (ii) the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA). Both of these laws entitle offshore workers to “no-fault” benefits when they get injured on the job.
The right to “no-fault” benefits means that you can file a claim regardless of how you got injured. Whether your employer is responsible, a coworker made a mistake or you accidentally caused your own injury, you should talk to a Florida maritime injury lawyer about filing a claim under the Jones Act or the OCSLA.
Fact #2: Many Offshore Workers Can Seek Additional Compensation for Fault
In addition to “no-fault” benefits, many offshore workers can seek fault-based compensation as well. The Jones Act allows offshore workers to sue their employers for even “slight” negligence, and offshore workers will often have fault-based claims against other companies as well. For example, if you got injured on a rig, platform or vessel, the owner of the rig, platform or vessel may be liable. Or, if you got injured by a defective tool or piece of equipment, the manufacturer may be legally responsible for your losses.
Fact #3: You Can’t Rely On Your Employer to Pay What You’re Owed
When seeking benefits under the Jones Act or OCSLA, you cannot rely on your employer to pay what you’re owed. Unfortunately, many companies try to deny their employees’ claims for “no-fault” benefits. When you get injured on the job, it is up to you to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Fact #4: You Need to Take Steps to Protect Your Right to Compensation
After suffering a job-related injury offshore, there are several steps you need to take in order to protect your right to compensation. For an overview of these steps, you can read: 7 Steps to Take After an Offshore Accident.
Fact #5: Hiring a Florida Maritime Injury Lawyer is the Best Way to Maximize Your Recovery
Due to the challenges involved in seeking benefits for an offshore injury, it is best to hire an experienced Florida maritime injury lawyer to represent you. You only have a limited amount of time to assert your legal rights, so you should talk to a lawyer right away.
Talk to a Florida Maritime Injury Lawyer about Your Legal Rights
Were you injured while working offshore? If so, you can contact us 24/7 for a free, no-obligation consultation. To discuss your legal rights with a Florida maritime injury lawyer in confidence, call 800-468-4878 or tell us how we can reach you online now.
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