Maritime work can be dangerous, even for the most seasoned professionals. Whether you’re on a tugboat in the Gulf or handling offshore equipment out of New Orleans, an injury on the job can turn your life upside down. Between the pain, the confusion, and the pressure from your employer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But there are steps you can take immediately to protect your health and your rights.
If you’ve been hurt offshore, knowing what to do in the hours and days afterward could be the key to recovering not just physically, but financially. At The Maritime Injury Law Firm, we help injured offshore workers throughout Louisiana and the Gulf Coast get the compensation they deserve. Below are the critical steps to take after a maritime injury.
1. Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
After a maritime accident, your health is the top priority. Even if the injury seems minor, get checked out right away. Some serious conditions—like internal injuries or head trauma—may not show symptoms until later. Immediate medical attention also creates documentation that could be essential in a legal case.
Whenever possible, see your own doctor instead of a company-provided physician. Although your employer may act supportive, their goal is often to protect the company’s bottom line. A doctor chosen by your employer could downplay the severity of your injuries. Getting examined by a trusted medical professional is a crucial first step.
2. Report the Accident to Your Supervisor
You must report your injury as soon as possible. Waiting too long to notify your employer can hurt your chances of receiving full compensation. If you don’t file a report promptly, your employer or their insurance company may try to argue that your injury didn’t happen at work, or didn’t happen at all.
Even if coworkers witness the accident and file a report themselves, it’s best to submit your own statement in writing. Be detailed. Include the date, time, location, what happened, who saw it, and what injuries you sustained. Keep a copy of everything you turn in.
3. Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Counsel
After a serious injury, your employer or their insurance company might pressure you into signing documents quickly. You may be offered a settlement or asked to make a recorded statement. Do not sign or say anything without first speaking to a maritime injury lawyer.
Signing documents too soon could result in you giving up your right to fair compensation. These agreements are often written in ways that benefit the company, not you. Talk to an attorney before making any decisions.
4. Document Everything You Can
If you’re physically able, start gathering evidence immediately after the accident. This includes:
- Photos of the accident scene, equipment, and your injuries
- Names and statements of witnesses
- Any written communication from your employer or insurance provider
- Copies of medical records and doctors’ notes
Strong documentation can make or break a maritime injury claim. The more evidence you have, the harder it will be for the other side to dispute your case.
5. Hire an Experienced Maritime Injury Attorney
Maritime law is a highly specialized area. If you want the best shot at fair compensation, hire an attorney who knows the laws that apply to offshore and maritime workers in Louisiana. Not all personal injury lawyers are equipped to handle these complex cases.
At The Maritime Injury Law Firm, attorney George Vourvoulias has over 20 years of experience helping offshore workers protect their rights under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act and other maritime injury laws. He understands what you’re up against, and he knows how to fight back.
Contact The Maritime Injury Law Firm Today
If you’ve suffered a maritime injury in New Orleans or anywhere along the Gulf Coast, you don’t have to face it alone. The steps you take in the first few days can determine whether you walk away with nothing or receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
From your first doctor visit to your final court date, The Maritime Injury Law Firm is ready to help. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and get the answers you need to move forward.
