Seattle Maritime Lawyers

Many people in Seattle and the larger Washington area are gainfully employed in the maritime industry. There’s no secret why this business sector continues to thrive in the region: It’s traditionally been a busy trade hub and home to a number of highly productive fisheries.

The maritime business is a lucrative one—but it’s also quite hazardous. Sadly, serious injuries on the job are far from uncommon. When disaster strikes, you need an experienced maritime accident lawyer who can help you attain the compensation you deserve, and, if necessary, guide you through the maze of the legal system to obtain a judgment.

Maritime & Offshore Accidents

Why is maritime work so dangerous? When you’re out at sea, threats to your health can come from seemingly everywhere. Inclement weather can cause personnel to topple overboard. Mobile equipment that has been poorly secured may come loose and crush unsuspecting workers. The presence of toxic chemicals and gases on board poses additional risks. Fires sometimes break out, causing serious burns and, occasionally, even triggering violent explosions.

Maritime employees who have been injured at work have access to a type of financial compensation known as maintenance and cure.

What Is Maintenance and Cure?

A traditional feature of maritime law, this refers to two separate yet related elements. Maintenance is the payments to the injured employee made weekly for the duration of their recovery period. Cure is compensation for expenses associated with recovery—e.g., medical bills. A qualified maritime personal injury lawyer can help you file these claims properly.

Other Kinds of Compensation

A good longshoremen attorney will also be able to determine whether you are entitled to additional compensation as well.