Long Shore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act

          The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal law which provides medical benefits, compensation, and vocational rehabilitation services to longshore and other harbor workers who have been seriously injured.   The LHWCA covers a broad range of harbor workers including: longshoremen, crane operators, stevedores, ship repairmen, ship builders, forklift operators, dock builders, and other marine workers who have been injured.  To be covered under the LHWCA, injuries generally must have occurred within the navigable waters of the United States, or in adjoining areas customarily used in the loading, unloading, repairing, or building of a vessel.

          As with most maritime related matters, the LHWCA is complex and the time to file a claim is limited.  If you are injured in your longshore duties it is important that you notify your employer promptly, seek immediate medical attention and contact an experienced maritime attorney before you make a statement to any insurance company or sign a settlement offer.  The maritime attorneys at Biggs & Gunst are dedicated to fighting for the rights of longshoremen and harbor workers and ensure that you get the care and compensation that you deserve.  

If you or a loved one was has suffered a longshore injury contact the experienced maritime attorneys of Biggs & Gunst today.  

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