ARE YOU AN INJURED SEAMAN OR MARITIME WORKER?
Jeffrey J. Shapiro & Associates is a reputable, nationally recognized NYC-based law firm that has successfully fought for the rights of injured seamen and maritime workers for over 40 years. We represent workers who have been victims of accidents occurring at sea or in the coastal areas as well as inland waters.
PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS AND GET THE COMPENSATION THAT YOU DESERVE!
Maritime workers face extraordinary risks on a daily basis. Working on any type of vessel, whether it is a barge, ferry, tug or any other poses constant danger. For this reason, there are special laws to protect seamen and maritime workers and give them legal rights that very few other workers have.
Under the Jones Act, an owner or operator of a vessel must ensure that the vessel is seaworthy, and can be held liable for a worker’s injury if he is hurt because of a dangerous condition on the vessel.
This is very important, because the typical “maintenance and cure” (similar to workers compensation) benefits paid to an injured worker are never enough to compensate for a severe injury.
The Jones Act allows an injured maritime worker to bring a lawsuit so that he may recover all of his damages, including loss of income, benefits, and, most importantly, pain and suffering.
These laws only protect you if you have a lawyer who knows them and how to use them for your benefit.
We are fully aware of your rights as a maritime worker and will devise and execute a strategy that will get you the best possible result. With a solid understanding of maritime law, we will craft a legal representation for you and get you the justice you deserve!
Employers protect their own interests, which is why if you have been hurt you need a legal team that will fight for you. Hiring a lawyer well versed in maritime law is crucial. We have a long list of wins to our credit and can help do the same for you.
Contact Us
“I will be in this with you the whole way, and will personally handle your case from beginning to end. Call me directly for a free consultation to discuss your case.”
– Jeffrey Shapiro
FAQs for Maritime Accidents
What is the Jones Act?
The Jones Act is a Federal law that protects workers who live and work on water vessels that go to sea. It provides that the owners and operators of these vessels must ensure that they are “seaworthy”, i.e., safe for the crew working on them.
What if my accident didn’t happen on a sea-going vessel?
You still have similar protection under a different set of laws.
Why are these laws important to me?
Injured workers receive benefits such as lost earnings and coverage for medical expenses. However, these benefits are miniscule compared to the economic loss of someone who can’t work, nor do they provide compensation for pain and suffering.
The Jones Act allows an injured maritime worker to collect benefits and to bring a law suit against the owner and operator to recover full damages. Depending on the seriousness of the injury, this right to recovery can be very substantial.
What should I do if I get hurt?
- Report the accident immediately. If you are asked to give a description of the accident, keep it simple and precise and include the defective or unsafe condition that caused you to get hurt, i.e.,”I fell on a loose rope”, “An unsecured bolt fell on me”, etc.
- Take a picture of the condition that caused your accident, if you can.
- Get the names of any witnesses to your accident or the condition that caused your accident if you can.
- Get medical attention as soon as you can.
- Call an experienced maritime injury lawyer ASAP to learn about your legal rights and options and to make sure your rights are protected.
We are happy to speak to you with no obligation to advise you of your rights so that you can make an informed decision.
CALL US FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
We’ve helped clients receive millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. You and your family do not have to suffer through the pain and anguish that has resulted from your unfortunate situation. Contact Jeffrey J. Shapiro now to determine if you are entitled to financial compensation for your injuries.