How Longshoremen Can Protect Their Rights After a Workplace Injury

Working as a longshoreman is physically demanding and inherently dangerous. Heavy machinery, massive cargo, slick surfaces, and long hours create conditions where serious injuries can happen in an instant. When an accident occurs, knowing how to protect your legal rights is just as important as getting medical care. Taking the right steps early can make a significant difference in your recovery - both physically and financially.

Understand Your Rights Under Maritime Law

Unlike most workers, longshoremen are protected under specialized federal laws, most notably the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). This law provides benefits to maritime workers injured on navigable waters or in adjoining areas such as docks, terminals, and shipyards.

Under the LHWCA, injured longshoremen may be entitled to:

• Medical treatment related to the injury

• Temporary or permanent disability benefits

• Compensation for lost wages

• Vocational rehabilitation if unable to return to the same job

However, employers and insurance carriers often look for ways to minimize or deny these claims. Understanding that maritime law is highly technical - and very different from standard workers’ compensation - is the first step in protecting yourself.

Report the Injury Immediately and Document Everything

One of the most common mistakes injured workers make is delaying injury reports. Even if the injury seems minor at first, it is critical to notify your employer as soon as possible and ensure the incident is formally documented.

You should also:

• Seek medical attention right away

• Keep copies of medical records, accident reports, and work restrictions

• Write down what happened while details are fresh

• Collect names of witnesses if available

Proper documentation creates a clear record and helps prevent disputes about whether the injury was work-related.

Why Experienced Maritime Legal Representation Matters

Maritime injury cases are complex, heavily regulated, and often aggressively defended. Having an attorney with deep experience in maritime law can level the playing field and ensure your rights are fully protected.

The Law Offices of Daniel Weltin brings extensive experience representing injured maritime workers, including longshoremen, in navigating the LHWCA and related maritime claims. From handling employer disputes to pursuing maximum compensation, experienced legal counsel can manage the legal burden while you focus on recovery.

Protect Your Future After a Maritime Injury

A workplace injury can disrupt your livelihood, health, and financial stability - but you do not have to face the process alone. Acting quickly, understanding your rights, and working with an attorney who knows maritime law can make all the difference.

If you are a longshoreman injured on the job, contact The Law Offices of Daniel Weltin to learn how experienced maritime legal representation can help you move forward with confidence. Visit our office in San Leandro, California, or call (510) 319-1904 to schedule a free consultation with no obligation.