Maritime
Inland waterway and dock work sits in a tangle of overlapping federal statutes. The deadlines here are often shorter than people expect, and the wrong path costs the claim.
Which law governs your work
The Jones Act covers seamen. The Longshore Act covers dock workers, shipyard employees and harbor workers. The line between them is contested, and it is where these cases are won or lost.
Unseaworthiness is not negligence
A vessel owner owes an absolute duty to provide a vessel and equipment reasonably fit for their intended purpose. That claim does not require proving anyone was careless, which is why it matters.
Maintenance and cure, regardless of fault
A seaman injured in service of the vessel is owed maintenance and cure until maximum medical improvement, whoever caused the injury. The daily rate offered is almost always too low.
The clock is different here
Jones Act claims generally run three years. Other maritime deadlines are shorter, and some are much shorter. Confirm yours rather than assume it.
Not sure you have a case?
That is what the free review is for. Two minutes on the phone is usually enough to tell you.
Start your case in under 60 seconds
Tell us what happened. An attorney reviews it within 24 hours, and during business hours you will usually hear back in minutes.
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