The important work that dredge crews perform cannot be understated. Widening navigable waters and coastal areas to ensure navigation remains possible is what keeps the economy moving, consumers supplied, and recreational travel possible. However, there are many hazards that a dredge worker faces on the job. These conditions may lead to severe injuries, but certain federal laws may help protect your rights after an injury.

An Olive Branch dredge accident lawyer is here to assist you. A discussion about your case with experienced maritime injury attorney Elissa M. Coombs might help you understand how to pursue your right to financial compensation.

How Dredge Accident Occur

Many different factors can lead to a serious accident for a dredge crew member. With proper legal representation, a client can have higher odds of winning financial compensation for those injuries. The causes of these accidents are an important part of a claim, as proof of negligence may play a significant role in determining the outcome. Potential causes of dredge accidents include, but are not limited to:

  • Equipment failure and defective products
  • Worker fatigue and overexertion
  • Lack of training or employer support
  • Negligence of other employees or third parties
  • Electrical shocks or chemical exposures
  • Fires or other hot surfaces which cause burns
  • Being knocked overboard, leading to serious injuries or drowning

These potential injuries, and many others that may occur on a dredge, can have catastrophic consequences for a worker’s health and the livelihood of their entire family. A skilled dredge accident attorney in Olive Branch can help someone seek fair compensation under federal law.

Federal Protections and Dredge Accidents: Two Laws Which May Apply

Under federal law, there are two separate acts that may apply to a dredge accident, depending on the circumstances of the case. Two separate acts protect the rights of many maritime workers, but each applies to their own unique class of workers. To determine the proper avenue to seek compensation, a dredge injury lawyer in Olive Branch is a crucial asset for an injured worker.

The Jones Act

Federal law permits an injured dredge worker to file a claim for personal injury damages against their employer when their employer’s negligence was the cause of the accident. This may apply to third parties responsible for the plaintiff’s harm as well. When dredge workers spend at least 30 percent of their time on navigable waters, and meet certain other criteria, this act may supply the types of monetary damages needed to help compensate the injured worker.

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act

If a dredge worker does not meet the criteria under the Jones Act, he or she may be eligible under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act when the proper criteria are met. Unlike the Jones Act, this law operates much more like a workers’ compensation claim and provides different protections and procedure for seeking damages.

Both acts may provide significant compensation to an injured person. They do not have to know ahead of time which act applies when they hire a qualified attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can help them navigate these complex determinations in order to seek appropriate compensation.

Consult an Olive Branch Dredge Accident Attorney

After a dredge accident, you are likely facing serious injuries that have greatly impacted your life and the lives of your family members. Compensation may be available for these injuries or even for the death of a loved one in a dredging accident. To seek compensation in your case, consult an Olive Branch dredge accident lawyer. Contact Elissa M. Coombs from the Law Office of David E. Gordon today.

The Law Offices of David E. Gordon

The Law Offices of David E. Gordon
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