Miami Longshoreman Injury

Florida Longshore & Harbor Worker Injury Attorneys

Longshoremen, also referred to as dockworkers or harbor workers, load, and unload cargo from ships. Stevedoring companies contract the work, hire longshoremen and are responsible for both cargo and worker safety.

Moving cargo between ship and dock where containers are stacked requires longshoremen to perform several tasks, many of which can be hazardous. Winch operators run machines similar to cranes, other dockworkers place slings securely around cargo containers and other workers repair ropes, rigging and gears, and ensure that all equipment is in working order.

In the course of their daily work, longshoremen are subject to a variety of accidents which involve falls, hand, leg and back injures. If equipment such as cranes, rope, winch hooks and cable riggings are defective, not in good repair, or safety precautions are violated, injures and even death may result.

While most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, a different form of workers’ comp protects Florida longshoremen injured on the job and provides disability benefits.

The Longshore & Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) is administered by the U. S. Department of Labor. LHWCA covers workers on land engaged in activities related to shipping as well as those involved in the repair and construction of sea-going vessels.

If you are a South Florida longshoreman and have been injured at work, your employer’s insurance company or the negligent party is likely to offer a quick settlement, hoping you will be satisfied. With an eye to their bottom line, insurance companies do their best to pay out as little as possible.

When you are injured, you will need to file an accident report. However, to protect your legal rights, it is essential that you contact an attorney before you speak to a representative from the insurance company, your employer or a doctor affiliated with your employer.

At Friedman, Rodman & Frank, our Miami longshoreman injury attorneys have decades of experience protecting the rights of longshore and harbor workers throughout Florida. We have assisted thousands of injured longshore, dock and harbor workers obtain fair settlement for their injuries, medical expenses, suffering and temporary or permanent loss of income.

If you have been injured and need legal help with a Longshore & Harbor Workers' Compensation Act claim, call our firm today at (877) 448-8585 for a no cost, no obligation evaluation. We are available to speak with you 24/7. Se Habla Español.