Injured commercial fishermen, crew members, offshore rig workers, and dockside employees have some of the most dangerous jobs in the Pacific Northwest. Our experienced Seattle, WA maritime accident lawyer has decades of experience litigating the toughest injury cases. We know you’re hurting from your injuries and are worried about paying the bills. Let our legal team represent your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC today to learn more during a free consultation.
Specific federal laws protect the rights of maritime workers, including the Jones Act and the Death on the High Seas Act. As your attorneys, it’s our job to make sure that your employer, their lawyers, and big insurance companies don’t try to minimize your valid claim.
We know the true value of your case and how much money you may need to treat your injuries and compensate you for other losses.
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Federal laws permit you to file a claim similar to a personal injury lawsuit if you’re hurt while on the job. You can seek money for your medical care as well as consideration for your pain and suffering and other ways the maritime injuries affect your life. If your family lost a loved one in a maritime accident, you could have the option to file a wrongful death suit against a negligent employer, recovering compensation for your family’s financial losses. Let our tenacious attorneys get to work for you today.
Seattle, with its bustling port and active maritime industry, is a hub for various maritime activities. Unfortunately, the maritime industry also comes with inherent risks, leading to accidents that can cause significant injuries and even fatalities. Understanding the types of maritime accidents, their causes, and the legal recourse available is crucial for maritime workers and their families.
Common types of maritime accidents include commercial fishing accidents, cargo ship accidents, cruise ship accidents, tugboat and barge accidents, ferry accidents, and more.
Commercial fishing accidents include injuries from equipment, falls overboard, and accidents involving fishing vessels. Cargo ship accidents can occur during loading and unloading, due to equipment failure, or in collisions. On cruise ships, passengers and crew may suffer injuries due to slips, falls, or other onboard incidents. Tugboat and barge accidents often involve collisions, groundings, and accidents during towing operations. High passenger volumes and frequent trips increase the risk of accidents on ferries.
Maritime accidents can be caused by human error, equipment failure, weather conditions, lack of training, negligence, and other factors. Mistakes made by crew members or captains, such as navigational errors or improper handling of equipment, are common causes of accidents. Faulty or poorly maintained equipment can also lead to accidents. Harsh weather can create dangerous conditions at sea. Inadequately trained crew members may not be prepared to handle emergencies or operate equipment safely. Accidents caused by negligence include failure to follow safety protocols, overworking crew members, and other forms of neglect by employers.
Maritime workers are protected under various laws designed to ensure their safety and provide compensation in the event of an accident. Some of these laws include:
After a maritime accident, it is important to seek medical attention, report the accident, document everything, and consult a maritime accident lawyer. Immediate medical care is crucial for documenting injuries and beginning treatment. Inform your employer and make sure the incident is officially recorded. Keep detailed records of the accident, your injuries, and any communications with your employer or insurance companies. Legal assistance is essential for navigating the complexities of maritime law and ensuring you receive fair compensation.
Our maritime accident lawyer offers legal guidance and representation, investigation and evidence collection, negotiation skills, and will help you pursue the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), workers in marine terminals and port operations have higher fatality, injury, and illness rates than other workers in the United States. This is due to the variety of extreme exposures and dangerous work environments that marine terminals and port operations pose. In one study that analyzed a five-year work period, fatal injuries occurred at an annual rate of 15.9 per 100,000 maritime workers, a rate five times that of the rest of the country’s workforce.
In many ways, the laws governing maritime accidents differ greatly from those governing other kinds of accidents. Unlike accidents on land, maritime incidents involve unique challenges such as jurisdictional issues, the applicability of international laws, and specific maritime doctrines.
These accidents can occur on a variety of vessels, including commercial ships, fishing boats, ferries, and recreational boats, and may involve complex liability questions under maritime law. Our Seattle maritime accident lawyer is well-versed in the intricacies of these laws and can navigate the specific legal frameworks to advocate effectively for you and your case.
After a maritime accident, your immediate priority should be to seek medical attention for any injuries. Once the health and safety of you and others is secured, it is crucial to report the accident to the appropriate authorities as soon as possible.
Gathering evidence at the scene, such as taking photos, obtaining the names and contact information of witnesses, and keeping a record of your injuries and medical treatment, is also invaluable for your case. Once your immediate health concerns are addressed, consulting with a maritime accident lawyer can help ensure that your legal rights are preserved and that you take the right steps towards filing a successful claim.
Compensation awarded in maritime accident cases can cover a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. The exact amount and type of compensation you may be eligible for will depend on the specific details of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the applicable laws, and the degree of negligence involved.
Our knowledgeable maritime accident lawyer will evaluate your case and help you understand the potential outcomes of your claim and the maximum amount of compensation you should seek.
Yes, there are specific time limits, known as statutes of limitations. These time frames can vary depending on the type of claim and the laws that apply.
Typically, maritime accident claims must be filed within three years of the injury. It is crucial to consult with a maritime accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed within the required time frame to preserve your right to compensation.
Maritime law is distinct from other areas of law due to its specific regulations, conventions, and practices. Choosing a lawyer with specialized knowledge in maritime law is crucial because they understand the unique aspects of maritime operations, the rights of maritime workers, and the legal standards that apply specifically to incidents occurring on navigable waters.
Our Seattle maritime accident lawyer possesses a depth of knowledge and experience that is critical for accurately interpreting maritime statutes and international agreements. With a maritime accident lawyer, you can rest assured that your legal representation is grounded in a thorough understanding of the law as it applies to maritime accidents. To speak with our maritime accident lawyer about your case, contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC today.
1918 1st Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
For those affected by maritime accidents in Seattle, Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC is here to provide knowledgeable and compassionate legal assistance. Let us help you seek the compensation you deserve. Reach out to our team today, and see how our Seattle maritime accident attorney can make a difference in your case.
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After a worker was electrocuted on a construction site and suffered life-changing injuries, we fought and won on their behalf.
When a retired man was killed in a truck accident, we made sure his grieving family got fair compensation.
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When you request your free consultation, Kent personal injury attorney Zach Herschensohn will listen to you, answer your questions, lay out your legal options, and give you down-to-earth legal advice.
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Lawyer fees for car accident cases vary. Most work on a contingency basis, taking 25% to 40% of the settlement. Hourly rates might range from $100 to $500+. Additional costs like filing fees can apply. Free consultations help you understand the fee structure.
Most injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, taking 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. This means they’re only paid if they win your case.
In Florida, lawyers typically take a contingency fee of around 33% to 40% of the settlement amount in personal injury cases. This fee structure ensures they are paid only if your case is successful.
