Houston Longshore and Harbor Workers Accident Lawyer

Longshore and harbor workers can be at risk for serious and debilitating on-the-job injuries. Compensation in these industries can work differently than in other fields, so hiring a dedicated maritime injury attorney can be a good idea if you or a loved one were injured. A Houston longshore and harbor workers accident lawyer can help you determine which benefits program applies to your role so you can get the compensation you deserve and focus on healing from your injury.

How Can Longshore and Harbor Workers Receive Compensation After an Accident?

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) covers longshore and harbor workers’ compensation rather than Texas workers’ compensation. This federal law provides benefits similar to workers’ compensation for maritime employees, including longshore workers, shipbuilders, and harbor construction workers. Others injured on navigable waters may also qualify. If you were injured while working in a maritime setting, a longshore and harbor workers accident lawyer in Houston could help you pursue your claim and obtain the compensation you deserve.

How Does an Injured Worker File an LHWCA Claim?

An injured worker should notify their employer as soon as possible. If the injury is severe, seeking emergency medical treatment should take priority. Employees must submit written notice of their injury within 30 days of its occurrence or discovery. The discovery rule applies to conditions that develop over time, such as repetitive stress injuries. Additionally, workers must file a claim with the federal Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) within one year. Longshore and harbor workers can choose their own doctors but must submit an authorization form to their employer for approval. Navigating these requirements can be complex, but a Houston longshore and harbor workers accident attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring you file your claim correctly and receive the full benefits you deserve.

What Does LHWCA Provide for Longshore Workers?

In Houston, a longshore and harbor workers lawyer can help you secure benefits such as disability payments, vocational rehabilitation, and coverage for medical expenses. Both temporary and permanent total disability benefits amount to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage. Partial disability benefits provide two-thirds of the difference between the worker’s average weekly wage and their current earnings, applying when an injury limits them to lower-paying work or reduced hours. Scheduled permanent partial disability benefits offer fixed compensation for specific injuries, such as the loss of a hand, leg, hearing, or vision. Other permanent partial disability payments follow the same structure as temporary partial disability benefits.

LHWCA medical benefits cover all reasonable and necessary expenses related to an injury or illness, including hospital treatment, prescription medications, prosthetic limbs, and physical therapy. Coverage also extends to transportation costs for medical appointments. There is no time limit on medical treatment, which continues as long as necessary. Vocational rehabilitation services assist permanently disabled individuals in transitioning to new roles through training, assessments, and job placement services.

Discuss Your Longshore and Harbor Workplace Accident Case With a Houston Lawyer Today

Identifying whether your role qualifies for Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act benefits or regular workers’ compensation can be difficult. Hiring a Houston longshore and harbor workers accident lawyer can help you get the best possible outcome after a serious injury at work. Benjamin Roberts Law has the experience you need. Contact us to discuss your case today.