Longshore work is a rewarding career, but it comes with significant risks. When dock workers suffer injuries on the job, it can impact their ability to earn a wage or even live independently in the future. The good news is that there is a path to compensation following these debilitating accidents.
If you have sustained injuries at work, a Houston dock worker injury lawyer can help. There are significant benefits to putting your case in the hands of a dedicated maritime injury attorney. Reach out today to learn more.
Understanding Dock Accidents
There are many ways for dock workers to suffer an injury while working. This includes a wide range of hazards that can lead to burns, crush injuries, and even toxic exposure. A Houston attorney with experience handling dock worker injury cases can investigate your accident before pursuing a claim on your behalf. Common causes of dock worker injuries include the following.
Vehicle Accidents
One of the most common causes of injuries in this type of work involves motor vehicle collisions. Both small passenger vehicles and large commercial trucks are commonly present in dock areas, and a collision can lead to debilitating injuries.
Slips and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls happen often in harbors or loading docks. Not only is the constant presence of water a serious risk, but many accidents result from spilled oil from forklifts or other equipment.
Lifting Injuries
Some injuries occur due to overexertion or repetitive stress. The most common example of this is damage to the muscles of the back due to improper lifting techniques. Back pain can be chronic and long-lasting, even requiring surgery in some cases.
Toxic Exposure
Not all cases of injuries to dock workers concern acute injuries such as broken bones or spinal cord damage. Some of the most devastating conditions occur as a result of exposure to toxic or harmful substances. Inhaling hazardous fumes or exhaust gases from heavy equipment can cause permanent damage to your health.
It is important to note that this is not a comprehensive list, so we recommend that you schedule a consultation with our attorneys to learn what compensation may be available in your specific case.
What Is the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act?
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal law designed to protect maritime workers who are not covered by the Jones Act. While the Jones Act applies primarily to sailors who spend a significant portion of their time working on vessels, the LHWCA covers those who work in shipyards, docks, harbors, and other maritime-related areas on land or adjacent to navigable waters. This law ensures that dock workers can pursue financial compensation if they suffer injuries while doing their jobs.
Under the LHWCA, injured workers have the right to receive benefits for damages such as medical treatment and rehabilitation. The LHWCA can also provide wage replacement, which typically equals a percentage of your average weekly pay. The law also extends certain protections to survivors if a maritime worker dies in a work-related accident.
Unlike traditional workers’ compensation programs administered by states, the LHWCA is federal, and the U.S. Department of Labor is responsible for overseeing claims. This means that harbor workers across the country rely on the same system for compensation, including those working in our city’s busy ports. Within this system, the support of a Houston dock worker injury attorney can make the difference between getting the compensation you need and getting nothing at all.
Talk to a Dock Worker Injury Attorney in Houston Today
If you have sustained injuries while working at a harbor or loading dock, you may be entitled to compensation through the LHWCA. To learn more about your legal options, reach out to a Houston dock worker injury lawyer at Williams Hart & Boundas today.