The Longshore and Harbor Worker’s Compensation Act (LHWCA) was passed to protect workers who are not seamen as defined by the Jones Act.  This might include land-based maritime employees who perform important acts like loading and unloading cargo or building and performing repairs on vessels, terminals and platforms.

A longshoreman injury might qualify under the LHWCA for benefits including payments for medical expenses, rehabilitation and compensation for any occupational injury that may arise in the course of maritime employment.  In addition to a LHWCA claim, a maritime lawyer can help a longshoreman evaluate the claim for an additional third party claim under general maritime law if they are found to have caused the injury.

Anyone injured in an accident during the course of maritime employment may be eligible for benefits and should seek the counsel of a knowledgeable and proven maritime lawyer.