The maritime industry wouldn’t function without dredge workers — professionals who keep our waters navigable and our environment protected. But just like many offshore jobs, working on a dredger can be dangerous, sometimes even deadly.
If you’ve been injured while working on a dredge vessel near Louisiana or along the Gulf Coast, you might be wondering what to do next. At The Maritime Injury Law Firm, based in New Orleans, we help injured offshore workers get the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about your legal rights as a dredge worker under the Jones Act.
Common Dredge Worker Accidents
Dredge boats use heavy equipment to excavate seabeds and river bottoms. Unfortunately, that equipment can also create serious hazards. Common accidents for dredge workers include:
- Slips and falls
- Falling overboard
- Drowning
- Onboard fires
- Explosions
- Equipment collisions
- Being struck by falling tools or gear
Many of these incidents occur because of unsafe working conditions or employer negligence. If your accident happened while working offshore in Louisiana, your employer may be liable.
Are Dredge Workers Covered by the Jones Act?
Yes, in 2005, the Supreme Court confirmed that dredge workers are considered “seamen” under the Jones Act. That means you have powerful legal protections if you’re injured while working on a dredge vessel in navigable waters.
The Jones Act allows seamen to file personal injury claims against their employer if negligence played a role in their accident. You don’t always need to prove fault to receive basic benefits, but doing so can significantly increase your compensation.
Examples of employer negligence include:
- Requiring you to work in dangerous weather
- Failing to maintain equipment
- Inadequate training or safety protocols
- Allowing unsafe conditions to persist on board
What Are “Maintenance and Cure” Benefits?
As a dredge worker covered by the Jones Act, you’re entitled to “maintenance and cure” — two forms of compensation for offshore injuries:
- Maintenance covers your daily living expenses (rent, food, utilities).
- Cure pays for your medical treatment and related costs, including travel to appointments.
These benefits are available regardless of whether your employer was negligent.
Additional Compensation for Dredge Boat Injuries
If your injury was caused by employer negligence, you may also be entitled to additional damages under the Jones Act. These can include:
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Medical bills (beyond cure)
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life and recreational activities
Our legal team at The Maritime Injury Law Firm will help you assess every possible form of compensation available to you.
Why You Need a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer
Maritime law is not the same as other areas of personal injury law — it’s complex and often used by employers to minimize what they owe injured workers. A dedicated maritime injury lawyer in Louisiana understands how companies try to avoid responsibility and knows how to fight back.
If you’re a dredge worker injured offshore or along the Gulf Coast, our firm is ready to help you navigate your next steps.
Contact The Maritime Injury Law Firm Today
If you were hurt while working on a dredger in Louisiana or along the Gulf Coast, you do not have to handle this alone. Based in New Orleans, The Maritime Injury Law Firm has over 20 years of experience representing injured offshore workers and holding negligent employers accountable.
Before you sign anything or accept a settlement, talk with a maritime attorney who understands your rights. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and let us fight for the compensation you are owed.
FAQs About Dredge Worker Injuries in Louisiana
Are dredge workers considered seamen under maritime law?
Yes. Dredge workers are classified as seamen under the Jones Act, which provides strong legal protections for injuries sustained while working on a dredge vessel.
Do I have to prove negligence to receive benefits?
You do not need to prove negligence to receive maintenance and cure. However, proving employer negligence can allow you to recover additional compensation.
What if my employer says the accident was my fault?
Under the Jones Act, you may still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. Your recovery may be reduced, but it is not eliminated.
Can I choose my own doctor after a dredge injury?
Yes. You have the right to seek treatment from a doctor of your choice, not just the company doctor.
How long do I have to file a Jones Act claim?
Most Jones Act claims must be filed within three years of the injury, but acting sooner helps preserve evidence and strengthen your case.
What should I do immediately after a dredge boat injury?
Document the incident, seek medical care, avoid signing statements, and speak with a maritime attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
