Recovering Compensation for Maritime Injuries in Mississippi
Mississippi has a long history of boating and fishing activities, but maritime accident injuries occur far too often. Unfortunately, these activities can be dangerous and result in serious trauma for mariners. When someone suffers an injury or illness while working on the water in Mississippi, they may be eligible to receive compensation through a maritime law claim.
Getting Help to Recover Compensation
Maritime law claims are governed by the Jones Act, which protects injured seamen who were hurt while performing their job duties. In addition to the Jones Act, workers may also qualify for benefits under general maritime law, state workers’ compensation laws, and other federal laws such as the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). An experienced maritime accident attorney can help you determine if you are eligible for any of these benefits.
A Mississippi Maritime Lawyer Can Protect Your Rights
Regarding recovering compensation, maritime law claims are often more complex than traditional personal injury cases. It is important to hire an experienced maritime lawyer who understands how the laws apply and can help you build your case. Your attorney must prove that your employer was negligent or otherwise responsible for the accident that caused your injuries for you to receive compensation. This may include collecting evidence of unsafe working conditions, inadequate training, or other factors that led to the incident.
Punitive Damages After Suffering Maritime Accident Injuries
In some cases, individuals may also recover punitive damages from their employers after a maritime accident if they can show a pattern of negligence or intentional harm that resulted in the injury. Punitive damages are awarded to punish wrongdoers and discourage them from repeating the same behavior.
Third-Party Negligence May Increase the Value of Your Claim
In addition to seeking compensation from your employer, you may also be able to pursue damages from other parties who were involved in the maritime accident. This could include manufacturers of defective machinery or products, third-party contractors, and suppliers whose negligence was a contributing factor in causing your injury. A knowledgeable maritime lawyer can help you identify all possible sources of compensation for your claim.
Finding a Maritime Lawyer
Maritime claims can be complicated and time-consuming. It is important to hire an experienced lawyer who understands the laws that apply to Mississippi mariners and knows how to fight for just compensation on their behalf. If you have been injured while working in Mississippi waters, contact a qualified maritime attorney today to discuss your legal options.
How a Maritime Lawyer Can Help
A maritime lawyer can help you with many tasks to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve following your maritime injury accident.
One way in which they can help is by investigating the incident and collecting evidence to determine who was responsible for your injuries. This could include speaking with witnesses, reviewing medical records, inspecting the accident scene, and more.
Your lawyer can also assist you in filing the necessary paperwork that must be completed to pursue a compensation claim. This includes submitting an incident report to the US Coast Guard and other maritime authorities, if applicable. They can also help you negotiate with your employer and/or insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Your lawyer can also represent you in court if your case goes to trial. They will work with you to build a strong case, which may include gathering expert testimony and other evidence to support your compensation claim. Finally, an experienced maritime injury lawyer can advise you on the best course of action for you and your family, helping to ensure that all of your rights are protected. They can provide the necessary guidance and support you need throughout the legal process.
The Diaz Law Firm: Maritime Accident Lawyers
Lawyers at The Diaz Law Firm understand how serious maritime injuries can be and are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free review of your case at (601) 607-3456 or (800) 459-2222 today. You can also reach us online.