What you need to know about Louisiana maritime laws

Most US residents know their basic rights. Most of what we know might be what we learn in movies (at least the Miranda rights, when they say “You have the right to remain silent …” well you know the rest) or something learned in High School Civics. Other than that, attorneys or a lawyer teach people about their lawsuit-related rights.

If you work on a body of water in Louisiana or off its coast, you should probably know Louisiana maritime law.

Ever suffered an injury at sea in Louisiana, federal or international waters? The first thing you should do is call an attorney with experience handling. Louisiana has the largest maritime workforce in the nation so it’s important for every worker to know his or her rights.

Louisiana Maritime Law

If you’re a worker at sea, you should first research your rights and contact an attorney to determine if you are a Jones Act Seaman that requires their employer to pay maintenance and care or if you fall in the category as a Longshoreman. And, don’t trust your employer. Employers would rather classify you as a Longshoreman because this limits your compensation compared to the potential compensation as a Jones Act Seaman.

Since, Louisiana runs along the border of the Gulf of Mexico, it has plenty of ports and infrastructure along the coast line. These ports provide cargo facilities and equipment. Some of the jobs offered at the coast are dangerous. These workers seem more prone to injury and wounds which may even be fatal, especially during hurricane season and cold winter months.

The basic rights of a maritime worker:

• It is the duty of the captain of the ship to ensure safety equipment
• Training of the workers to avoid seasonal and work environment injuries
• In case of injury the shipowner may appear in front of a jury for trials
• The injured are allowed to claim against, at any physical loss, a maritime injury and collect from their employers
• Cannot be compelled to work in hazardous or negligent conditions
• Must provide a boat that is seaworthy and free of unsafe conditions.

If you have any questions regarding a maritime injury claim, give us a call at (504) 345-1111. You can also contact us on our website. Don’t wait. Call us today!

The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.