The Role of an Offshore Injury Attorney in Your Legal Journey

A maritime attorney’s role is vital, guiding injured workers through the complexities of marine law and advocating on their behalf. Their efforts safeguard the rights and welfare of injured sailors, ensuring they receive adequate compensation for their injuries and losses.

A free consultation provides the initial opportunity to meet an attorney and determine whether collaboration suits your case. During this meeting, you should be prepared to discuss the following topics. 

Free Consultation

Working offshore can be dangerous, with injuries seven times as common as on land. The work involves being exposed to toxic substances and extreme temperatures. Workers also often live and work far from emergency personnel and medical facilities, meaning that a life-threatening injury could require hours before help arrives.

If workers get injured, they can receive compensation for their damages and losses. An experienced attorneyat Charles D. Naylor Law can help determine which laws and rules apply to a case. This can include determining the parties responsible for the injury and identifying all potential damages.

An offshore injury lawyer will typically offer a free consultation to prospective clients and may provide a contingency payment plan. This allows individuals who cannot afford legal representation to seek justice and pursue their rights to fair compensation.

This fee structure is based on the case results and outlines what percentage of the settlement or verdict an attorney will receive. This will be clearly explained at the initial consultation and discussed again in a contract or fee agreement.

Evidence Gathering

Working in high-risk offshore industries like oil rigs and ships is seven times more deadly than most land-based jobs. This is why employers at sea must take many precautions to protect employees from serious injuries and illnesses.

When a worker is injured, they are legally entitled to compensation for their medical expenses and living costs while they recover. Unfortunately, employers and insurance companies often deny these claims or offer a low settlement. An offshore injury attorney can help clients fight for the full amount they deserve.

An experienced offshore injury lawyer will usually handle cases on a contingency fee basis. Clients don’t pay upfront; attorneys only get a percentage of the settlement after winning. Before beginning any legal proceedings, they will discuss fees, costs, and other financial concerns with their clients.

Negotiation

Working in the maritime industry requires specialized knowledge of marine laws and regulations. Offshore injury lawyers are trained to identify the rules that may apply to your case and how those laws can maximize your claim’s value. Unlike state-based personal injury accidents, maritime law is distinct and has its own rules.

Depending on the specifics of your accident, you may be entitled to recover damages for various losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and disfigurement. Many offshore injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay them if they successfully secure compensation for you.

Maritime insurance companies are notorious for using strategies to reduce the money they must pay out on an accident claim. Your lawyer will be knowledgeable about these strategies and can effectively counter them. They can also ensure that your claims are filed within the law’s time limit.

Litigation

Injured seafarers may be eligible for substantial compensation, including medical costs and pain and suffering. An experienced offshore injury attorney will understand how to calculate and claim these damages for you.

In addition, an attorney with experience in maritime law can help you fight your employer’s insurance company and the tactics they often use to avoid paying out legitimate claims. For example, they may try to convince you to sign a release that prevents you from suing them in the future or even prevent you from working again in the industry, a retaliatory tactic known as blocklisting.

Most offshore injury attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they won’t charge you any upfront fees for their services. It allows injured individuals to pursue justice and compensation without worrying about hefty legal bills. However, discuss fees, costs, and other details with your lawyer before hiring them.