What Exactly Does an Offshore Injury Lawyer Do?

Working in the midst of the wind and the waves can be an exciting experience, but more so than in any other work environment, dangerous conditions often arise. As a maritime worker, you probably know that your employer is supposed to look out for your well-being while you’re on unpredictable waters. But it often happens that companies fail to do so.

If you’ve been subjected to any kind of maritime injury, you need an offshore injury lawyer who’s going to pick up where your employer left off. You need someone who understands what’s at stake when you put your body on the line to do demanding and dangerous work.

What Exactly is an Offshore Injury?

While working in an offshore setting means having to face certain risks, it should not mean having accidents that could have otherwise been avoided. When a maritime injury lawyer talks about offshore injuries, they mean any accident or damage that occurs while a seaman is on the job. The Jones Act is a law that states that seamen have the right to file a claim if they face a maritime injury or illness while on the job.

Common causes of injury that an offshore injury attorney typically sees include:

• Oil rig injuries
• Deck accidents
• Equipment failure
• Explosions and fires
• Accidents involving other vessels

As you probably already know, these are serious kinds of accidents that can result in catastrophic injuries.

How Do You File a Claim with an Offshore Injury Lawyer?

As with any on-the-job injury or accident, there are certain steps you need to take to file a claim. Before getting in touch with an attorney, make sure you do the following:

• Report the accident and any injuries. Your employer should know what happened, exactly as it happened. You should do this as soon as possible to strengthen your argument, because it will be very clear that the maritime injury did not occur anywhere else.
• Fill out all necessary paperwork. Be absolutely sure that your account of the accident is accurate, and that you’ve signed all forms. You should make sure you have your supervisor’s sign-off as well.
• Get medical attention from an independent physician. As soon as you are aware that you’re dealing with an injury, get in touch with a medical professional. To make sure your assessment is accurate, this should be someone that you choose, and not someone your employer suggests. If you need to take time off work based on their evaluation, make sure that you do so, not only so you can recover but also to strengthen your claim.

Find the Best Maritime Injury Attorney for Your Claim

When you’re dealing with any kind of serious maritime injury, you want to make sure your recovery is stress-free and your future is covered. That’s why having an offshore injury lawyer is so critical.

If you’re ready to get the compensation that is rightfully yours, the lawyers at Reich and Binstock are ready to help you. Visit our website to get in touch, learn more about our services, and find out how we can serve your claim today.