Attorney Blog

Placing Value on a Jones Act Claim Settlement for Maritime Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74177 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When maritime accidents leave you injured and unable to work, you will understandably have concerns about staying afloat financially. As your employer explains how to file a Workers' Comp claim, he or she may not even mention Jones Act claims. This is because you have a lot more to gain by pursuing a Jones Act claim. For help, you can get the assistance of a Louisiana maritime lawyer.

Factors to Consider in a Jones Act Claim Settlement

Although Workers' Comp will typically pay for disability, medical care and some lost income, under Jones Act claims, factors in a settlement include:

past and future lost wages;
past and future fringe benefits;
current and future medical expenses;
rehabilitation;
medical devices;
lost earning capacity;
retraining expenses;
lost household services;
current and future pain and suffering;
disability;
impairment;
disfigurement; and
altered quality of life.

It's best that you get in touch with a Louisiana maritime lawyer who understands the aftermath of maritime accidents and can help you obtain the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. The maritime injury team at The Young Firm has handled many cases and will give your case the respect it deserves. (insert link to

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered an offshore accident or other maritime accidents, or if you want to know how to file a worker's comp claim. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

DONE

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74178 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you have a career in the maritime industry, you're probably away from home for weeks or months at a time. This is a good reason to get frequent health checkups. The last thing you want to experience at sea is chest pains. To protect yourself, get the following tests performed annually or more frequently if your doctor recommends so.

Vital signs - these include your blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and respiration rate. High blood pressure could be a sign of cardiovascular trouble. Less than 120/80 is considered normal. A normal pulse rate is 60-100, although your pulse rate may be lower than 60 if you're athletic. Normal temperature should be around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. If you take more than 20 breaths in a minute, that could signal lung problems.
Heart exam - your physician will listen to your heart to detect a murmur, irregular heartbeat, or signs of heart disease.
Lung exam - your doctor will place the stethoscope on your back and listen for any signs of lung disease, such as diminished breath sounds.
Neurological exam - this should be done to assess your nerves, reflexes, muscle strength, balance, and mental state.

Other tests may also be necessary, depending on your condition. A clean bill of health can give peace of mind to you and your loved ones while you’re working at sea.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered an offshore accident or other maritime accidents, or if you want to know how to file a worker's comp claim. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

Cramped quarters while working at sea? There's Still Room for Exercise

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74179 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you spend a significant amount of time in the maritime industry you probably have cramped quarters, which can make it very difficult to keep up your exercise regimen, assuming you have one. However, there are many things you can do to maintain your cardio, strength training, and flexibility wherever you are.

Finding Space to Squeeze in Ship Exercises

Try to work these 3 tenets of every good exercise regimen into your days.

Cardio - march in place, run up and down the stairs, jog in place or run in place with high knees, do jumping jacks, side steps, dance, and/or jump rope.
Strength training - try triceps dips on chairs, triangle wall push-ups, reverse plank, side plank, regular wall push-ups, crunches, squats, resistance band workouts, and/or lunges.
Flexibility - prop your foot up on your bed or a chair and stretch your hamstrings, use doorframes to stretch your upper body by pushing and pulling against them, and if you are familiar with any yoga poses, definitely work some of those into the end of your workout. Remember to stretch at the end of the workout rather than the beginning so that your muscles are warm and you don’t pull anything.

Exercise can prove to be invaluable at sea. It can help you clear your mind, increase your energy and de-stress. It can also reduce your risk of falling victim to a maritime accident.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered an offshore accident or other maritime accidents, or if you want to know how to file a worker’s comp claim. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

WWII USS Laffey Gets $9 Million Makeover

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74180 — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The World War II destroyer USS Laffey has come home, ABCNews.go.com has reported. Dubbed "The Ship That Would Not Die," it returned on Wednesday, January 25 to the coast of South Carolina, where it will be housed at the Charleston Harbor Museum, specially dedicated to maritime and naval history.

More than 2 years ago, it was moved so that repairs, costing roughly $9 million, could be made to the hull on a dry dock. Around 50 people, ex-crew members included, gathered aboard an aircraft carrier to welcome home the Laffey.

The Laffey, which was built in 1943 in Maine, earned its aforementioned nickname in 1945 off the coast of Okinawa. It withstood an attack by Japanese planes, and half of them - about 25 - made contact. There were 103 casualties, the result of 4 bombs and 5 kamikaze planes.

The Laffey was also right in the middle of the D-Day invasion. In 1975, she was decommissioned; in 1981 she was brought to Patriots Point. It is now designated as a historic landmark.

A state loan paid for the renovations and the museum plans to use operating revenue to pay it back. Bringing the ship back was “not about museum ticket sales,” said the museum's director, Mac Burdette. “It's about preserving the heritage,” he said.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered an offshore accident or other maritime accidents, or if you want to know how to file a worker's comp claim. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

Louisiana Maritime Lawyer Explains What Was the Maximum Jones Act Cure

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74074 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

As a victim of maritime accidents, you are entitled to compensation while you recover. This may be in the form of what is called maintenance and cure as well as lost earnings if you are a seaman. If you have been denied compensation, you should have a Jones Act law firm review your case.

When Your Condition Fails to Improve Further

While maintenance covers living necessities, cure covers medical expenses. Your employer has an obligation to foot the bill for your maintenance and cure until you are at maximum medical cure. This is the point in your recovery when it is determined that your condition will not improve further.

For example, if you suffered a herniated disk and all treatment, including surgery, was only partially successful in completely relieving your symptoms, you will have reached maximum medical cure, also called maximum medical improvement. Also, you can reach maximum medical cure if you are disabled permanently and further treatment will not help. In either case, your employer will no longer be obligated to pay maintenance and cure.

If you are having a dispute with your employer about maximum medical cure, you should allow a Louisiana maritime lawyer to advocate for your rights. Maritime accidents have the potential to cause severe injuries. An experienced lawyer can help you fight for all deserving compensation.

Contacting a Louisiana Jones Act Law Firm

Concerned about your medical bills? Wondering what was the Jones Act?

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Louisiana maritime lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Jones Act Claims: Knowing Whether You're Covered

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74157 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you're wondering how to file a Workers' Comp claim after any kind of maritime accidents, you should acquire the assistance of a Louisiana maritime lawyer. An experienced lawyer can review your case and decide whether it would be more beneficial to pursue Jones Act claims.

When You're Covered Under the Jones Act

Under the Jones Act, you can file a claim if you have been injured in service to a vessel that was on navigable waters, including offshore rigs and some barges. You could also have coverage if you were injured on your way to the vessel or when it was docked. Understand that vessel includes:

ships;
boats;
tugs;
barges;
dredges;
cruise ships; and
mobile drilling units.

You may also be covered while in a hotel or restaurant, as long as you are under your employer's direction. If your injury occurred near or on water, you should immediately speak with a lawyer to determine whether you can pursue Jones Act claims. Your employer may explain how to file a Workers' Comp claim and insist that you do, however, you could have more to gain under the Jones Act. A Louisiana maritime lawyer will thoroughly explain your options.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other maritime accidents. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Maritime Industry Job Training Simulator | Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74175 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

To find out if you really want to work in the maritime industry, you may want to try your hand at a simulator at Maritime Professional Training's (MPT) S.M.A.R.T. Center. That's short for Simulation for Maritime Assessment, Research and Training.

If you think simulator means simple graphics on simple screens with a mouse and keyboard, think again. This realistic simulator will soon be available to students at MPT's campus in Fort Lauderdale, FL.The system, which offers a glimpse of what's it like to work out at sea, is part of MPT's plans to upgrade its training tools. Installation plans include upgraded projectors and a curved screen to enhance direct-view displays, as well as multi-image processors for pixel-level image adjustments.

Additionally, there are 3 authentic bridges. M/V Endeavor, the flagship, has a 22 x 20 foot pilothouse with a 325-degree view. It's complete with:

engine gauges;
display panels;
bow and stern thrusters; and
more - be sure to expect realistic motion sensation.

It’s great that more people like you are willing to take a dive in maritime careers but you should understand that you may be subject to serious accidents. That’s why the Louisiana maritime lawyers at the Young Law Firm are here to protect your rights when injury occurs.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered an offshore accident or other maritime accidents, or if you want to know how to file a worker's comp claim. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S.Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

207 People Rescued by NOAA Satellites

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74176 — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Satellites from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) helped rescue 207 people who found themselves in life-threatening situations all over the United States and surrounding waters.

Distress signals were picked up through emergency beacons that were carried by shipwrecked boaters, lost hikers, and downed pilots. Information about locations was then relayed to ground emergency crews.

NOAA's geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites are part of COSPAS-SARSAT, a global rescue tracking system. It utilizes a network of satellites to find distress signals coming from emergency beacons on boats and aircraft, and from PLBs, which are personal handheld locator beacons.

Of the 207 lives saved in 2011:

122 of them were in the water;
71 were on land and used their personal PLBs; and
14 were victims of aviation incidents.

Highlights of the rescues include 2 people who were pulled from a life raft in the middle of the night when their boat sank near Marco Island, FL, and an elderly hiker who was stranded amid a snowstorm in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Furthermore, over 30,000 rescues have been achieved in the world, including over 6,700 here in the U.S. and surrounding waters due to the support of COSPAS-SARSAT.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered an offshore accident or other maritime accidents, or if you want to know how to file a worker's comp claim. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

What was the Jones Act law for lost wages after maritime accidents?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)74069 — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in any kind of maritime accidents, you should not have to worry about how your bills will be paid. As a seaman, you are entitled to maintenance and cure, which is compensation for your medical expenses and living necessities. You may also be entitled to additional compensation, and, therefore, you should have a Jones Act law firm review your case.

Seeking Lost Wages after Maritime Accidents

Besides maintenance and cure, an injured seaman is generally entitled to wages that extend throughout his or her voyage or contract. What this means is that if you sustained your injuries at the beginning of a fishing season that was contracted, you would be entitled to a certain amount of compensation that had been agreed upon, even though you were sidelined with injuries and could not perform your duties.

Unearned wages may include bonuses, overtime and other benefits that a seaman would have earned aboard a vessel.

Before you try to handle a maritime injury claim on your own, you should seek the help of a Louisiana maritime lawyer who handles cases throughout the United States. In the absence of good legal counsel, you may lose out on the necessary compensation to help you recover from your injuries.

Contacting a Louisiana Jones Act Law Firm

Concerned about your medical bills? Wondering what was the Jones Act? Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Louisiana maritime lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Common Vessels that May Be Unseaworthy in Jones Act Claims

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72612 — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Not all offshore workers will be eligible to file Jones Act claims due to unseaworthiness. The type of vessel you are on matters to the validity of your claim, and a claim against a vessel owner stating that the vessel was unseaworthy can be filed only with certain types of vessels.

Basically, a moving worksite is typically considered a vessel under the Jones Act. Some common examples of vessels covered under the Jones Act that may be considered unseaworthy include:

trawlers;
tugboats;
tankers;
water taxis;
commercial fishing boats;
floating cranes;
luxury and recreational boats (provided you are a crew member);
moving barges;
liquid cargo barges;
drill ships;
ferries;
mobile offshore oil rigs or platforms;
mobile offshore gas rigs or platforms;
dredges;
supply boats;
railroad car floats; and
riverboats.

Remember that in Jones Act claims of unseaworthiness, you need to be on a worksite that is classified as a vessel, and your job must qualify you as a seaman. When proving these factors, you may need the help of a New Orleans lawyer to define an unseaworthy vessel in your Jones Act claim evidence.

A New Orleans Lawyer Can Help With Jones Act Claims

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. If you suffer a maritime injury a law firm in Louisiana like The Young Firm in New Orleans has Jones Act lawyers that can help you with Jones Act claims.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your offshore accident injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

7 Conditions that May Signal an Unseaworthy Vessel in Jones Act Claims

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72611 — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you’re considering filing a Jones Act claim of unseaworthiness against the owner of a vessel where you worked, you’ll need to show evidence of how the vessel’s condition created the potential for your injury accident to occur.

The following are 7 unseaworthy conditions that could result in Jones Act claims against vessel owners or manufacturers:

improperly maintained vessels;
weak or unstable structures on the vessel (ladders, railings, etc.);
lack of safety equipment;
lack of necessary crew;
inadequate accommodations for nutritional and hygienic needs;
slippery walking surfaces; and
incompetent, improperly trained or criminal crew members.

Showing proof of these conditions can be difficult, as many of them are only evidenced by documentation the vessel owner holds. The vessel owner, in most cases, won’t be eager to give you access to these documents, which is where a New Orleans lawyer for Jones Act claims can help.

A maritime injury law firm in Louisiana may have more resources to draw from and power to obtain necessary evidence than you’d have alone. Jones Act lawyers who handle offshore injury claims against employers can help you handle claims against vessel owners when their unseaworthy vessel causes your injuries.

If you were injured on a vessel and the accident was caused by the unseaworthiness of that vessel, you may have 2 separate Jones Act claims to file. A maritime injury law firm in Louisiana has the resources that may help you handle your situation.

A New Orleans Lawyer Can Help With Jones Act Claims

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. If you suffer a maritime injury a law firm in Louisiana like The Young Firm in New Orleans has Jones Act lawyers that can help you with Jones Act claims.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your offshore accident injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Your Jones Act Claim is Unique and So Is Its Value

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72570 — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

One of the common questions our New Orleans law firm hears from clients is how the value of their Jones Act claim is determined. There’s a false belief that maritime attorneys have some sort of formula or program that they can use to determine what your case is worth.

The reality is that just how your accident and injury case is unique to your situation, so is the value of your claim. Your claim may be very similar to another boating accident case, but it will still have nuances specific to yours alone. The good news is that similar cases can help your attorney create an estimated value of your claim.

The goal of estimation is to establish a general baseline for how much compensation your employer and the insurer should offer in a case of negligence. Your claim value estimate can be helpful once your employer offers to settle your claim – if it’s far below the average value of similar cases that have been settled in the past, you may be getting short-changed.

There’s typically no going back once you’ve signed a settlement agreement – most insurance companies include a clause that prevents you from filing for future damages. Before accepting a settlement, make sure that you have reviewed the offer with your attorney to evaluate whether or not your current and future needs are being met.

Learn About Your Rights after a Boating Accident from a Jones Act Claim Attorney

Our New Orleans law firm, The Young Firm, has been helping injured maritime workers and Jones Act seamen for over 50 years with their offshore injury claims. Unlike other shipping law firms, we handle claims from all types of maritime occupations – from oil rig accidents to commercial fishing injuries.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Proving Injury in Jones Act Injury Claim with Help from a Boat Accident Attorney

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72565 — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Working on an oil rig puts employees at risk for several types of severe injuries, especially when an oil rig explosion occurs. The cause of these explosions is often negligence on the part of the employer, which has led to many instances of workers needing to file a Jones Act injury claim.

However, developing an injury doesn’t mean that you automatically have a case of employer negligence and a valid Jones Act injury claim. If you’re injured in an offshore oil rig accident such as an explosion, you’ll need to show evidence that another’s negligence led to the cause of that accident. Some examples of how your employer can be found negligent include:

failure to comply with routine maintenance on equipment;
neglect of known safety hazards;
inadequate training for employees on safety protocol;
lack of safety devices made available to employees; and
failing to follow maritime and worksite safety standards.

You’ll need evidence to support your claim of employer negligence, and obtaining it can be difficult without the help of an experienced maritime attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana. Evidence can be developed through witness statements, photographs and maintenance records, the latter of which is often very hard to obtain from an accused employer.

Oil rig workers have rights under the Jones Act, especially in light of the large-scale Deepwater Horizon disaster of 2010. Talk to an attorney to learn how you can protect your rightful treatment after a serious accident.

A Boat Accident Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana Can Help

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A boat accident attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you in many ways, whether you need help proving the oil rig explosion cause in your offshore injury claim or want professional guidance to make sure your rights as a seaman are upheld.

Though we are a law firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights during a Jones Act injury claim.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury claim, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Elements that Qualify You Under Maritime Injury Act DOHSA

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72511 — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When an offshore worker suffers a fatal maritime accident injury, he or she often leaves behind a devastated family. This sudden loss of companionship is difficult enough to deal with, but there’s also significant financial suffering due to the loss of income of the deceased maritime worker.

The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) was established to help families of fatally injured maritime workers recover compensation for the loss of their loved ones. Only certain parties can file a claim under this maritime injury act, so it’s important to consult a Lafayette injury lawyer who knows the laws to help determine if you qualify.

Under the DOHSA, the personal representative of the deceased must bring about the suit for damages. The damages awarded are to benefit the spouse, parent, child or other dependent relative as determined under admiralty law. A spouse, parent, child or dependant relative may serve as the personal representative but there may be arguments as to who will be designated the personal representative.

If there’s a challenge among survivors of the deceased for the right to file a lawsuit under DOHSA, you may need attorneys in Lafayette, LA to help you straighten out the representatives.

There are several maritime injury acts that can be utilized in seeking damages for the loss of a loved one in a maritime accident. Not all acts will apply to your case, and you may have rights under certain acts that you aren’t aware of. It’s best to consult with an experienced Lafayette injury lawyer to determine what to do in your situation.

Attorneys near Lafayette, LA May Help Your Maritime Accident Claim

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. If you are near Lafayette, an injury lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered in a maritime accident where the maritime injury acts may apply.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your offshore accident injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

6 Types of Compensation Your Jones Act Claim Should Cover

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72567 — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you’ve been pursuing a Jones Act claim for injuries from a boating accident or other maritime injuries, you may find yourself frustrated by the time a settlement is offered. At this stage, many maritime workers make the mistake of accepting whatever compensation is offered, which, in many cases, is a very low amount.

A New Orleans law firm with attorneys who handle Jones Act claims can to review your settlement offer and compare it to other similar cases. If you’re not being offered these 6 basic types of compensation for your injuries and damages, you may want to seek an attorney’s help with filing a lawsuit.

The basic compensation types you should be looking for include:

maintenance and cure benefits;past and future wage losses;
past and future medical expenses not already covered by your employer;
costs associated with your injury (equipment, job retraining, etc.);
pain and suffering damages; and
mental anguish compensation.

Remember that aside from maintenance and cure, these other types of compensation typically are only available when the injury was caused by the negligence of another. This is why it’s critical to have a Jones Act attorney on your side to help you prepare the evidence necessary to support your claim.

A case of negligence that leads to a serious boating accident or other offshore accident will involve many factors. The value of your Jones Act claim is just one of the many topics you’ll need to handle when seeking fair resolution to your negligence case, and an attorney can help.

Learn About Your Rights after a Boating Accident from a Jones Act Claim Attorney

Our New Orleans law firm, The Young Firm, has been helping injured maritime workers and Jones Act seamen for over 50 years with their offshore injury claims. Unlike other shipping law firms, we handle claims from all types of maritime occupations – from oil rig accidents to commercial fishing injuries.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Why an Employer is a Bad Source of Information on Jones Act Rights

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72560 — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you’re seeking to file a Jones Act injury claim you’ll most likely seek professional advice on how to obtain your rightful benefits and compensation. While you may think that your employer would be the go-to source for this information, in many cases he or she could be the last person you want advising you on settling a claim.

Most employers put profit before safety, and they’re reluctant to admit that they neglected to keep a worker safe from manageable hazards. When an injured employee comes to their company with an injury claim, it’s not uncommon to see the employer try to dissuade them from filing a claim.

As a maritime worker, you have several laws in the U.S. and internationally that provide you with strict rights to medical care, benefits and compensation for injuries that occur due to work-related accidents. Most offshore workers are too busy with their jobs to learn about Jones Act or maritime law, and therefore aren’t aware of many of these rights. Your best solution is to work with an experienced attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana who handles maritime claims.

Remember that offshore workers, especially oil rig workers, have rights under the Jones Act. By working with an experienced Jones Act injury claim attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana, you may be able to better preserve your rights under these laws and obtain the fair treatment you’re entitled to.

A Boat Accident Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana Can Help

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A boat accident attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you in many ways, whether you need help proving the oil rig explosion cause in your offshore injury claim or want professional guidance to make sure your rights as a seaman are upheld.

Though we are law firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights during a Jones Act injury claim.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury claim, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Chemical Exposure: Danger for Gulf Coast Maritime Workers and Residents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72482 — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Gulf Coast maritime workers are often exposed to toxic chemicals on the job. Such exposures can lead to serious injury and illness. Your employer has a legal obligation to provide you “a safe place to work” under the Jones Act. Yet Louisiana seamen continue to suffer the aftereffects of chemical exposure.

A perfect example of this happened following the 2010 BP oil disaster, when many Gulf Coast residents and cleanup workers became ill long after the event itself. In January of 2011, a report came out that detailed the work of Dr. Rodney Soto, a medical doctor from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Dr. Soto’s findings are disturbing and emphasize the danger of toxic chemical exposure for humans.

Dr. Soto tested and treated many patients who had high levels of oil-related chemicals in their blood in the aftermath of the BP disaster. In every patient he tested, he found extremely high levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). He said, “I’m regularly finding between five and seven VOCs in my patients.” These patients included “people not directly involved in the oil cleanup, as well as residents that do not live right on the coast.”

One woman, who was young and good health, visited the beach and within weeks developed respiratory problems and cancer. Another of Dr. Soto’s patients, a BP cleanup team foreman, was found to have chemicals from both the oil and the cleanup operation in his bloodstream.

In fact, the 1.9 million gallons of toxic dispersants used after the spill are banned in at least 19 countries because of their dangers to human health.

Dr. Soto says he is very concerned about the long-term effects of this chemical exposure because symptoms can develop over years. “I am concerned with the illnesses like cancer and brain degeneration in the future,” Soto said, adding his concern that the chemicals can create “tremendous implications in the human immune system, hormonal function, and brain function.”

If you or a loved one suspects toxic chemical exposure, either as a Gulf of Mexico maritime worker or a resident of the area, you should have your blood tested for VOCs. A positive diagnosis may entitle you to compensation from the company responsible for your illness.

The New Orleans maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm urge you to contact us if you have become ill because of Gulf Coast chemical exposure. We know the law and can fight to protect your rights. Call toll free today at 866-938-6113 to schedule a free consultation.

OCSLA: Maritime Injury Act Supporting Your Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72505 — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you’re using the Outer Continental Shelf Land Act (OCSLA) as grounds for your maritime accident claim, you need to understand which areas are considered in that act. The Outer Continental Shelf is a valuable resource for offshore resources and research and a popular location for maritime professions to have vessels and platforms stationed.

According to the federal government, the waters considered part of the Outer Continental Shelf include submerged lands, subsoil and ocean floor extending from the seaward scope of the states’ jurisdiction and federal jurisdiction. This area begins generally 3-9 nautical miles from the shore and extends out 200 nautical miles or farther, depending on the state.

Areas that include the Outer Continental Shelf are found along the Pacific U.S. coast, Atlantic U.S. coast, and the Gulf of Mexico coast. If you’re employed on a vessel traveling in these waters or a platform positioned in these waters, you may be able to file a claim under the OCSLA if you become injured.

To understand how the Outer Continental Shelf is defined and how the OSCLA may apply to your claim, you should consult with a Lafayette injury attorney. Utilizing these types of maritime injury acts in your claim against your employer can be difficult without the knowledge of legal assistance.

Attorneys near Lafayette, LA May Help Your Maritime Accident Claim

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. If you are near Lafayette, an injury lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered in a maritime accident where the maritime injury acts may apply.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your offshore accident injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Offshore Rigs on Gulf Outer Continental Shelf Increased End of 2011

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72609 — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Part of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources’ end of 2011 reports included a press release regarding the state of the Outer Continental Shelf. The release reported that the number of offshore rigs in the area had increased to the highest level since they had imposed a ban on operations the previous year.

In May 2010, following the Deepwater Horizon disaster, a ban was placed on deepwater drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico. At the end of 2011, 35 rigs were actively drilling in waters designated as Outer Continental Shelf zones – lower than pre-ban average but still a healthy return.

The 3 months prior to the moratorium saw an average of 42 rigs in operation, which declined as no new permits were allowed until February 2011. While the ban only lasted from May 2010 to October 2010, it had a serious impact on the offshore drilling industry with the number of rigs in the Gulf of Mexico dropping to as low as 11 at times.

After seeking regulations to establish a middle ground between the need for safety and the recovery of the drilling industry, the offshore rigs are returning to operations. Governor Bobby Jindal hopes that the push to revive Gulf Coast industries while maintaining environmental safety can continue in 2012.

A New Orleans Lawyer Can Help With Jones Act Claims

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. If you suffer a maritime injury a law firm in Louisiana like The Young Firm in New Orleans has Jones Act lawyers that can help you with Jones Act claims.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your offshore accident injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Are You Safe in Your Louisiana Shipyard Abrasive Blasting Job?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72481 — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The dangers of abrasive blasting jobs are many. And too often employers cut corners or even ignore safety precautions that could prevent many unnecessary injuries and illnesses for their employees. If you work on or around shipyard blasting operations, look around. Are the following OSHA safety practices in place in your shipyard?

Your employer has found and is using an alternative to dangerous silica sand as a blasting agent.
Blasting cabinets, rooms or other temporary enclosures are used to eliminate exposure to operators and bystanders.
All blasting enclosures are well ventilated.
Wet methods of blasting are used whenever possible to reduce risk of exposure to toxic air.
All employees involved in shipyard abrasive blasting are required to practice good hygiene. Eating, drinking and smoking are prohibited by anyone in blasting areas. All employees shower and change clothes after work to protect their families and homes from toxic dust.
Certified respirators of the correct type are used in and around all blasting operations.
Other personal protective equipment, including eye and face protection, protective helmets, heavy gloves and aprons, safety shoes or boots, hearing protectors and fall protection are provided and used on the blasting site.
The air in enclosed workspaces is regularly tested, and measures are taken to reduce any exposure to heavy metals or other toxic elements.
All employees involved in abrasive blasting are trained and made aware of how to control physical and health hazards.
Blast hoses are equipped with safety devices to control static electricity, provide emergency shut-off, hose whip checking, and hose-coupling safety locks.

If you are not sure that your employer has worked hard to keep you safe, it is ok to speak up and ask questions. And, if you have been injured or made ill by unsafe abrasive blasting practices, you should seek experienced legal advice.

The maritime law experts at The Young Firm stand ready to answer your questions and defend your rights. Call toll free at 866-938-6113 today or fill in the confidential form on this page.

Are You Safe Working on a Gulf Coast Vessel? NTSB Says NO

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72210 — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Gulf Coast Jones Act seaman, you deserve the best in safety precautions. But sometimes these precautions are not taken and accidents happen. In November 2011, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued new safety recommendations in reaction to a three-vessel collision in Port Arthur, Texas.

On January 23, 2010 the oil tanker Eagle Otome collided with the cargo vessel Gull Arrow, which was docked and unloading. Then the outbound towboat, the Dixie Vengeance, moving two barges, hit the Eagle Otome and breached the starboard ballast tank. At this point, oil began to flow and a total of 862,344 gallons were released from the tank.

Fortunately, there were no injuries in this mishap, but it caught the attention of the NTSB, which investigated the incident. In their investigation they found the following causes:

Mariner Fatigue: The first pilot of the Eagle Otome was suffering from fatigue, due to an untreated case of sleep apnea.
Pilot Oversight: The second pilot of the Eagle Otome did not respond to a radio call, which distracted the first pilot.
Bridge Control Ergonomics: Both pilots were found to fail at effective bridge resource management.
Waterway Safety: The Jefferson and Orange County Board of Pilot Commissioners was singled out for lack of oversight.

As a result, a great number of recommendations were handed down to the U.S. Coast Guard, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, the Sabine Pilots Association and the governors of Gulf Coast states. All of these recommendations targeted the systems and oversight already in place and not being used.

While no injuries occurred, the situation was potentially disastrous for the vessels’ crews, who are guaranteed “a safe place to work” under the Jones Act. The NTSB acted to protect you, the Jones Act seaman.
If you have been injured in a Gulf Coast vessel collision, you have the right to sue those responsible for your safety. Contact The Young Firm, New Orleans Jones Act law specialists today to learn your rights. Call us today toll free at 866-938-6113.

Although we are based in Louisiana, we will pursue your Jones Act injury claim anywhere in the United States. Don’t wait to get started on the road to both physical and financial recovery.

Are the Laws Onboard a Cruise Ship Different than Onshore?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)72207 — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

It’s the dream of a lifetime! A wonderful trip to an exotic location on a cruise ship can be one of the most memorable times of your life. Whether you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary or just getting away from it all, cruise ships offer entertainment, fine dining, recreation and some well-deserved rest.

But these same ships can also offer something much less desirable - becoming the victim of a crime or injury onboard. According to a congressional hearing conducted in 2007, in the three years from 2004-2007, 28 people fell overboard from cruise ships, and only three were found. 200 claimed to be victims of assault and/or sexual crimes, and four allege grand theft.

The difference between these cases and those on land is that these are rarely solved and usually poorly investigated. Why? Partly because maritime law is difficult to decipher.

Maritime law does require cruise ships to provide safe passage for all aboard; however, because these ships are not even required to report crime and the law depends on what country’s flag is flying and where the ship is located, loopholes and confusion cost many people their rights.

For instance, if you are the victim of crime in a U.S. port, then American law applies, but if you are more than 24 miles offshore from any country, you are on the high seas, and only the laws of the country of the ship’s flag apply to your case.

The best recourse for anyone who is injured or the victim of a crime while onboard a cruise ship is to find legal representation. The attorneys at The Young Firm in Louisiana have over 50 years’ experience in maritime law and can represent anyone in the United States. Call us today for a free case consultation.

The 5 Common Types of Negligence in a Jones Act Negligence Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)71166 — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Employer negligence in an offshore accident injury claim can be one of the most difficult things to prove when seeking compensation for your damages. Before you can file a claim for damages caused by employer negligence under Jones Act negligence laws you need to determine if they were truly at fault for the accident that caused your injuries.

The 5 most common types of employer negligence that can cause serious accidents and injury include:

neglecting to perform routine maintenance on equipment or facilities;
failing to respond to reports of defective or broken equipment;
disregard for hazardous working conditions;
failing to adequately train and supply workers with safety equipment; and
not complying with laws regarding worksite safety.

These negligent actions can often lead to serious accidents offshore, leaving workers in danger of suffering critical or fatal injury while on the job. In cases such as these, you may find it helpful to have a Jones law attorney on your side to help prove employer negligence.

Filing a claim of negligence against your employer can be difficult, frustrating and time consuming - especially if you don't know the ropes. Working with a maritime law firm may give you the resources necessary to develop the evidence in your claim that can qualify you for the benefits and compensation you are entitled.

A Jones Act Negligence Attorney can Help with a Claim under Jones Law

You have certain protections your employer may not want you to know about under the Jones Act. The statute of limitations is just one aspect you need to work around when filing a claim of Jones Act negligence. An attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered injury due to the negligence of your offshore drilling co. or other maritime employer.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

Your Slip and Fall Injury May Not Be Apparent at First

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70629 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

After a slip and fall accident while you’re working at a maritime worksite, it may not seem like a big deal at first. You may have some bruises and pain and could need a few days off to let the soreness subside. But what happens when the pain persists and you suddenly lose range of motion, sensation or even experience complete paralysis?

Slip and fall injuries can be a serious matter, even if you don’t feel that bad right after the accident. Sometimes soft tissue injuries take awhile to set in, and nerve damage may not be apparent until later on during your recovery. While your employer may pay maintenance and cure during minor recovery time, if you report more serious injuries they may start giving you trouble.

Under Jones Act law you have the right to maintenance and cure, as well as lost wages during recovery from a maritime work injury. You also have the right to choose your own medical care and do not have to see the company doctor even if your employer tells you that is your only option.

Many maritime workers are unaware of these rights, which lead them to be short-changed when it comes to obtaining benefits and compensation for their injuries. When you’ve suffered serious injury in a slip and fall accident, don’t put off reporting it and seeking immediate medical evaluation. Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, without a good checkup, you may be stuck with complications in the future that your employer won’t cover.

A Maritime Law Attorney Can Help With Maritime Information

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered injuries while employed in a maritime occupation anywhere in the U.S., from Gulfport, Mississippi to Louisiana’s Lafayette. Injury lawyer assistance is available wherever the waters take you.

Though we are a New Orleans law firm based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Damages for Pain and Suffering in a Louisiana Maritime Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70639 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As the victim of a serious maritime accident, you may be entitled to damages for physical and emotional pain and suffering. This is in addition to damages for medical expenses and lost wages. To get an idea of all damages under general maritime law, you should get in touch with a lawyer.

The Young Firm, which is a maritime law firm in New Orleans, has experience handling maritime cases and can take on legitimate cases not only in Louisiana, but throughout the United states.

Damages for Physical and Emotional Pain and Suffering

Attorney Timothy Young in Louisiana and his colleagues understand how your life can be affected in the aftermath of a maritime accident. If appropriate, they can help you seek compensation for both physical pain and suffering and emotional pain. Physical pain and suffering puts a value on your physical pain.

To determine the dollar amount to award for physical pain, a jury may consider:

the extent of your injury;
the possibility of the pain recurring;
the severity of your pain; and
how long the pain may linger.

Emotional pain is considered emotional distress and mental suffering. A jury may decide emotional pain merits payment if it includes:

· terror;
· fright;
· apprehension;
· anxiety;
· nervousness;
· humiliation;
· worry;
· mortification;
· shock;
· grief; and
· feeling as if you have lost your dignity.

It's important that you have New Orleans, LA attorneys with maritime experience review your case because you could be entitled to damages that you weren't aware of.

Contact New Orleans, LA Attorneys with Maritime Experience

Attorney Timothy Young in Louisiana understands that maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. The maritime law firm in New Orleans, The Young Firm, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

Surprising Ways Your Employer May Hinder Your Jones Act Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)71156 — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

One of the best types of evidence for a case of Jones Act negligence is jobsite records. If your injury was caused by faulty equipment, hazardous worksite conditions, or other facility-related matters there should be records to back up these failures to provide a safe work environment.

Unfortunately, most employers will rarely provide the records necessary to show evidence of failure to maintain equipment or resolve safety issues. Some of the records you may be seeking include:

vessel/worksite inspection records;
equipment maintenance logs;
duty logs;
weather logs; and
general employee records.

Because your employer holds these records, you will need to obtain them from their offices directly. It's not uncommon to have an employer tell you that they are not allowed to release those records for confidentiality reasons - but this can often just be a tactic to damage your injury claim.

You have the right to seek compensation for an injury caused by employer negligence under Jones law and you also have a right to hire an attorney to help you seek that compensation. Attorneys for Jones law claims often have more resources and a better chance at obtaining the records necessary to serve as evidence in your claim.

A Jones Act Negligence Attorney can Help with a Claim under Jones Law

You have certain protections your employer may not want you to know about under the Jones Act. The statute of limitations is just one aspect you need to work around when filing a claim of Jones Act negligence. An attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered injury due to the negligence of your offshore drilling co. or other maritime employer.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

2 Potential Types of Employer Negligence in a Piracy Incident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70737 — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As with any offshore injury claim that falls under the Jones Act or maritime laws, damages resulting from an act of piracy should be due to a case of negligence. An attack by pirates in international waters can be a traumatic experience, resulting in both physical and mental damages. While it’s impossible to prevent these attacks completely, there are reasonable safety measures employers should take to raise crew safety.

2 Employer Acts of Negligence in Regards to Piracy

You should consult with maritime lawyers experienced in piracy damage cases to help you determine if negligence of your employer contributed to the occurrence of the pirate attack.

The employer failed to take measures to prevent the attack or provide adequate defensive measures against piracy. You employer should avoid navigating your vessel through areas known for piracy. There are many types of onboard defense systems that can also be used to deter or resolve attacks.
The employer fails to address any psychological damages you suffered after the pirate attack. You may suffer mental trauma from being through such a stressful ordeal, such as being held hostage or kidnapped, and your employer should provide medical support for any psychological conditions such as PTSD, anxiety or insomnia.

Emotional distress lawsuits aren’t as common as offshore injury cases, but they can still be viable maritime claims. If you’ve been the victim of an act of piracy while working on an oil rig, offshore platform or vessel in international waters, you may want to consult with maritime lawyers to discuss your potential psychological damages.

Maritime Lawyers Can Help with an Emotional Distress Lawsuit under the Jones Act

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. Maritime lawyers from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you are seeking to file an emotional distress lawsuit after becoming the victim of piracy, kidnapping, or other traumatic situations while working on an overseas oil rig, vessel, or platform.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

5 Ways Your Employer Can Increase Prevention of Pirate Attacks

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70738 — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent pirate attacks against a vessel that travels international waters or an offshore oil rig positioned overseas, there are some precautions your employer can take. There are physical steps that can be taken to help reduce damages from piracy, as well as international movements by organizations to help combat this growing problem.

5 Ways to Limit Risk of Pirate Attacks

Your employer can assist in the reduction of damages by piracy in several ways:

utilizing onboard deterrents such as security systems, dock patrols, fire hoses and loud PA systems;
training crew members on actions to take if a pirate attack is imminent;
cooperating with naval deployments from nearby countries, including notifying them when your vessel will be in their area of patrol;
working within the boundaries of the anti-piracy patrols of East Africa and the Middle East; and
informing the Somali coast guard if your vessel will be in the area to raise monitoring of your vessel’s safety.

Unfortunately, even though many of these methods have been in place for years, piracy still occurs in many areas of international waters. There’s no foolproof method of preventing pirate attacks, but taking some of these basic steps during travel through known pirate waters may help increase the safety of your vessel and reduce physical injuries against the crew.

A Boat Accident Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana Can Help

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A boat accident attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you in many ways, whether you need help proving the oil rig explosion cause in your offshore injury claim or want professional guidance to make sure your rights as a seaman are upheld.

Though we are an attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights during a Jones Act injury claim.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury claim, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

The Basics of Proving Negligence in a Boat Accident Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70588 — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you are employed on a commercial boat like a fishing vessel or oil tanker, you risk suffering serious injury in a boat accident on a daily basis. Many boat accidents could have been prevented had negligence not been a factor. When both employers and workers follow proper safety rules and exercise reasonable behavior, the risk of accidents is lower.

To better understand negligence in a boat accident injury claim, we offer this scenario:

You are working on a commercial fishing boat and report to your employer that a ladder on one of the decks is broken. Your employer fails to fix the ladder, and you fall, sustaining a serious head injury.

There are many ways to look at this case to determine who is negligent. The employer is where the focus first shifts, because they blatantly neglected to fix the broken ladder after it was reported. However, in a case like this, the defense also will try to argue that you were negligent in your own safety because you knew the ladder was broken but attempted to use it anyway.

You will probably counter this argument by saying that it was reasonable to expect your employer to make the necessary repairs to the ladder. This argument is best made by an experienced boat accident attorney in New Orleans. Proving negligence in a maritime claim is often difficult without the proper evidence and knowledge of Maritime Law, but your attorney will help.

Contact a Boat Accident Attorney in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney who handles cases of negligence that result in a boat accident in Louisiana can be found at The Young Law Firm in New Orleans. Our boat accident attorneys can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries while working on a commercial vessel.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

The Jones Law: Protecting Seamen Injured in Lafayette Maritime Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70591 — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Jones Act Law, also referred to as the Jones law, is one of only a few federal laws that offer protection to maritime employees injured in the workplace. To get a thorough understanding of the Jones law after you’ve been seriously injured, you should meet with a Jones Act attorney in Louisiana.

An injury attorney near Lafayette, Louisiana, at The Young Firm has the authority and knowledge to handle claims throughout the country. Despite where your maritime accident occurred in the United States, help may be available at The Young Firm, which is based in New Orleans.

When the Jones Act Applies to Your Maritime Injury

If your case falls under the Jones Act, you’re then most likely considered a ward of the court, which means the court should have a duty to protect your rights.

Sadly, this doesn’t carry the weight it did in the past, considering employers will do all they can to diminish your claim. However, to ensure that your rights are truly protected, you should have a Jones Act attorney in Louisiana, review your case.

If it’s determined that you don’t qualify as a seaman and therefore are ineligible to file a claim under the Jones Act, you can turn to the Longshore Act. The Longshore Act, which is similar to general Workers' Compensation, is also tailored to fit the maritime industry.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney in Louisiana

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

International Protections and Laws against Piracy

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70736 — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Because most instances of piracy happen in uncontrolled, international waters, the United Nations is the most relevant organization to attempt to provide governance. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), established in 1982, is one of the laws that may factor in an emotional distress lawsuit case of piracy damages.

This law makes maritime piracy a criminal act of violence, detention or devastation when it takes place against the crew or passengers of a ship. While ships are typically the target of piracy, it’s also possible for offshore platforms such as oil rigs to be attacked.

The complications in these cases arise when determining which laws protect seamen when they file an offshore injury claim in international waters. The Jones Act may apply in some cases, and it’s best to consult with maritime lawyers who have experience with these sorts of claims.

Piracy causes many types of damages to vessels and their crews, including the potential for loss of cargo, equipment and even human life. Crew members who sustain injury may be able to file a maritime injury claim with their employers. There are also cases in which these traumatic experiences cause mental anguish and psychological disorders long after the incident, which can be claimed as an offshore injury in some cases.

Maritime Lawyers can help with an Emotional Distress Lawsuit under the Jones Act

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. Maritime lawyers from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you are seeking to file an emotional distress lawsuit after becoming the victim of piracy, kidnapping, or other traumatic situations while working on an overseas oil rig, vessel, or platform.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

7 Meditation Tips to Protect the Mental Health of Maritime Workers at Sea

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70643 — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

As an employee in the maritime industry, you may have to spend long stretches at sea. To protect your mental health and well-being, you may want to try meditation.

Below is a list of 7 tips on meditation to get you started:

· find at least 20 minutes of free time: try to find a quiet area free of distractions;
· get comfortable: many people use the lotus position, sitting Indian style, or if you prefer, you can sit in a chair;
· be at ease: allow your mind and body to settle;
· center your attention on one thing: this thing could be your breathing, a mental image, a mantra or a calming sound which you can repeat in your mind or out loud;
· stay focused: if your mind wanders, gently shift your focus back to the one thing you chose to center on;
· when it's time to stop, do so gently: don't just get up and walk away, make a smooth transition back to your normal activities; and
· repeat as often as necessary: meditation is most helpful when it's done regularly, like once every other day for a minimum of 20 minutes may be sufficient.

It's tough earning a living in the maritime industry. You owe it to yourself to protect your wellbeing. If you’re ever injured on the job, you may benefit by consulting a Jones Act attorney in Louisiana at The Young Firm, which handles cases nationally.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney in Louisiana

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

6 Nutritional Cooking Tips for Small Vessel Offshore Workers

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70640 — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you’re not a crew member on a large oil rig or shipping vessel, chances are, your offshore accommodations are limited when it comes to food preparation.

Good nutrition is often compromised by the lifestyle of a maritime worker on a smaller vessel. While big rigs can afford to have restaurant-quality kitchen facilities and trained chefs, many smaller vessels must make do with a crewmember’s culinary skills in a tiny galley.

Even though many of these jobs require you to be out at sea for weeks, meaning provisions have to be bought all ahead of time, you don’t have to sacrifice nutrition! Here are some tips for making the most of packaged and frozen goods:

Look for flash-frozen vegetables – they retain their nutrients better than traditional frozen foods and sometimes even fresh fruits and vegetables;
Get creative with canned soups – cream based soups can be converted into sauces and gravies;
Stewing for space – one-pot stews can make use of a bag of mixed frozen vegetables and canned soup or stock with your choice of meat, saving space and time;
Stock smart – try to keep goods on hand, such as canned soups, rice and beans, which can be used in a variety of recipes;
Don’t get too convenient – try to avoid prepared meals; they’re generally higher in preservatives and sodium. Make your own versions by buying the basic components and combining them yourself; and
Provide a balanced meal – don’t forget that you need to balance proteins, starches, fruits and vegetables to increase your crew’s nutritional intake.

Good nutrition is a key factor in keeping healthy while working on an offshore job. Try to eat a variety of foods while away from land and take advantage of fresh foods when you have the opportunity to come ashore. Don’t forget that healthy eating can be a major factor in keeping your immune system strong and your body resistant to the harsh conditions you can run into while out at sea!

Contact a Gulf Coast Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Relax During an On-shore Break with Some Venice Fishing

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70641 — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 2011 – Venice, LA – If you happen to have a few days on shore this fall and want to relax a bit, why not try some Mississippi River fishing?

AHN sports contributor Jojo Doria recently ran a story in the NOLA News that the community of Venice in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, is inviting recreational fishermen to come out and experience the excellent conditions that occur during the later fall months. Not only is the weather cooling, but the Mississippi water levels have been lowering, meaning fish are able to pool in a lake-like area rich in sediment.

These are optimal conditions for specks, redfish, flounder, speckled trout, mullet, menhaden and shrimp. The green, murky waters provide an inviting low-water condition that many small fish favor and attracts the larger predator fish, which are excellent for catching.

Local fishing experts say that the conditions this year are optimal all along the river, but some of the best spots include the Main River for redfish and bass, The Jump on the southern bank of Tiger Pass, and Cupid’s Gap, which hosts plentiful schools of trout and flounder.

Taking time off from your maritime work to spend a little rest and relaxation on dry land is important to your health. Even if your occupation is commercial fishing, recreational fishing is much more relaxed and low-pressure, which can be great for de-stressing and improving your mood.

Don’t forget to make personal time for yourself, or you may find that you become fatigued easier or experience more stress and frustration on the job. If you feel burned out, talk to your employer about your situation before it becomes a serious health concern.

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Estimates of Gulf Oil Spill Impact Not as Harsh on Bluefin Tuna Population

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)71169 — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill of April 2010, federal agencies have closely monitored sea life for signs of contamination risks, while employees and volunteers worked tirelessly in the months following the spill to contain the oil and clean up the damage.

A report from Fox10TV.com announced the concerns of pollution of the seafood in the Gulf, both from the oil itself and the cleaning agents being used, may not be as serious as once thought. These chemicals were a hazard to the wildlife, and the workers that were tasked with cleaning them up. Bluefin tuna, an already at-risk fish population, was among the species compromised by the oil spill.

While the spill was active, the contaminates had been estimated to have leaked into about 20% of the tuna's spawning habitat. Bluefin had already been flagged as an overfished species, and restrictions were imposed to limit their size for capture; however, new analysis shows that there’s about a 4% or less rate of reduction in spawning. Still, a summit to review the Gulf's marine health was held in Houston on December 5th to address concerns such as these.

While bluefin tuna may have fared better than predicted, many humans involved in the Gulf oil spill cleanup efforts may not have been as lucky. If you or a loved one were involved in the oil spill cleanup efforts and suffered injury or developed a medical condition related to the work done during this time, you may have a maritime injury claim.

A Maritime Injury Attorney Can Help Injured Oil Spill Workers

You have certain protections your employer may not want you to know about under Maritime Law. A maritime attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered injury due to hazards faced while working in an occupation related to oil rigs or spills.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

International Waters Known for Piracy

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70733 — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The travel routes of international shipping vessels sometimes cannot avoid certain areas known for piracy incidents. However, your employer should attempt to avoid these areas when possible to reduce the risk of assault, robbery, kidnapping and hostage situations related to pirate activity.

There are several known areas that exist in international waters where piracy has become a more common problem. These areas include:

The “pirate coast” off of the Indian subcontinent, mainly between India and Sri Lanka;
The Gulf of Guinea, near Nigeria and the Niger River delta;
The Malacca Strait, between Indonesia and Malaysia; and
The Gulf of Aden, the most publicized area of piracy off the coast of Somalia and the south entrance to the Red Sea.

Many of these areas are home to geographical features that provide hiding places for pirates. The Malacca Strait has thousands of islets that provide excellent ambush positions for pirate ships, and areas like the Niger River delta make it difficult to navigate larger ships to safety.

If possible, your employer should attempt to avoid sending your vessel through these areas to reduce the risk of becoming victimized by pirates. When these attacks do occur, they often cause psychological damages aside from physical injuries. This may lead to future emotional distress and result in a lawsuit for mental anguish.

Maritime Lawyers Can Help with an Emotional Distress Lawsuit under the Jones Act

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. Maritime lawyers from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you are seeking to file an emotional distress lawsuit after becoming the victim of piracy, kidnapping or other traumatic situations while working on an overseas oil rig, vessel or platform.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

New BP Allegations in Deepwater Horizon Oil Rig Explosion

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)71168 — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

More than a year and a half has passed since the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion and reports of safety violations are still being filed.

According to Fox10TV.com, 5 new violations were filed against BP by federal regulators on Wednesday, December 7, adding to the already lengthy list against the oil company. The new violations included failure to perform precise pressure integrity tests and failure to postpone drilling procedures when the safe drilling margin wasn’t maintained.

These violations come just 2 months after federal regulators had cited BP for 7 other violations, and Transocean Lts. and Halliburton for 4 violations. According to a statement from the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, the latest violations were issued in light of additional regulatory violations by BP that has been uncovered.

While BP does have 60 days to appeal the 5 new violations, they’ve already had to answer to numerous other accusations of negligence that may have led to the deadly oil rig explosion that cost 11 workers their lives. Oil rigs are extremely dangerous workplaces and require careful safety precautions and routine inspections to help decrease the chances of a serious accident.

If you’re an employee on an oil rig and suffer serious injury in an explosion, or if you’ve lost a loved one who was a worker on an offshore platform, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages and loss through a maritime accident claim.

A Maritime Injury Attorney Can Help Injured Oil Rig Workers

You have certain protections your employer may not want you to know about under Maritime Law. A maritime attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered injury due to hazards faced while working on an oil rig or offshore platform.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

Damages for Medical Expense after a Louisiana Maritime Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70638 — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Among the damages available under general maritime law that you may be entitled to, are past and future medical expenses. If you have been seriously injured in a maritime accident and you think you have a legitimate case, you should discuss your legal options with a maritime law firm in New Orleans.

The Young firm, although based in New Orleans, handles maritime cases across the country. The lawyer there can review your case, discuss issues of negligence, and guide you in the appropriate direction.

Medical Expenses after a Maritime Accident

The damages for medical expenses that you may be eligible for, based on your unique case, include the following:

· diagnostic exams - common diagnostic exams ordered after a maritime accident are X-rays, CT scan, MRI, arthroscopic surgery, myelogram, and nerve conduction study;
· surgery and other medical procedures;
· hospital stay;
· doctor fees;

prescription and over-the-counter medication;

· home nursing care;
· physical and/or occupational therapy; and
· medical devices - such as a nebulizer, crutches, or wheelchair.

To protect your legal rights, you should consult your case with your New Orleans, LA attorneys with maritime experience shortly after your accident. Attorney Timothy Young in Louisiana has handled many cases and is familiar with tactics your employer or insurance company may try to use to undermine your case.

Contact New Orleans, LA Attorneys with Maritime Experience

Attorney Timothy Young in Louisiana understands that maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. The maritime law firm in New Orleans, The Young Firm, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

4 Safety Tips to Prevent Maritime Slip and Fall Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70627 — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Maritime workplaces like docks, ships and oil platforms are areas where there’s a high probability of wet, slick surfaces. While it’s pretty difficult to keep areas like these dry, there are still safety measures you can take to help prevent slip and fall accidents.

Wear proper clothing – Special work boots or non-slip shoes are a must for keeping your footing when walking on slick surfaces or using ladders or stairs in wet areas. Well-cuffed and secured pants are also important to avoid tripping on loose pant legs.
Report damaged equipment – Staircases and ladders that are broken, loose or damaged can create slip and fall hazards even when they’re not wet. Report any hazardous platforms to your employer immediately so they can be repaired.
Request safety equipment – If your employer hasn’t done so already, request that anti-slip material be installed in areas that are prone to becoming wet and slippery.
Take part in safety training – Many employers offer safety training courses that can help you protect yourself while on the job. If this is not offered, talk to your employer about setting up a course through OSHA or BOEMRE.

Unfortunately, even if you follow good safety practices and your employer complies with all regulations for workplace safety, accidents still do happen. It’s important to understand your rights to recovery and compensation if you suffer serious injury due to a slip and fall accident at a maritime workplace.

A Maritime Law Attorney Can Help With Maritime Information

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered injuries while employed in a maritime occupation anywhere in the U.S., from Gulfport, Mississippi to Louisiana’s Lafayette. Injury lawyer assistance is available wherever the waters take you.

Though we are a New Orleans law firm based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

Jones Act Law Louisiana: 4 Tips for Reporting a Maritime Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70590 — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you suffer serious maritime injuries under the Jones Act Law, your employer may insist that you were partially at fault for your accident and injuries. To prove this comparative fault, your employer may request a recorded statement or accident report, which you should cautiously provide. You should also have a Jones Act attorney in Louisiana go over your case.

You can find knowledgeable Jones law attorneys at The Young Firm, which is based in New Orleans but handles claims throughout the United States. Your attorney is capable of reviewing your case to determine whether it falls under the basics of Jones Act or the Longshore Act.

When Giving a Statement to Your Employer

When your employer takes a recorded statement, the purpose is to not only discuss how the accident happened, but to prove comparative fault and set up a defense early, before you even consider filing a claim under the Jones Act.

Your attorney may encourage you to follow these 4 tips when giving a statement or preparing a report:

· clearly state why the accident happened;
· list any fault on the part of the company;
· list any fault on behalf of employees; and
· state whether any unsafe conditions or unsafe equipment contributed to the accident.

Unlike a claim filed under the Longshore Act, negligence must be proven under the Jones Act for you to receive compensation.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney in Louisiana

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

How Your Degree of Fault Impacts Your Boat Accident Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70587 — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The key to negotiating a settlement in a maritime boat accident claim is your degree of fault. Fault is determined when the circumstances of your boating accident are reviewed to determine who was more negligent and therefore caused the majority of the factors that led to your injuries.

The degree of fault is a very important percentile in your settlement determination. Maritime Law follows a comparative fault system, in which both parties can be found at fault for the accident, and the injured worker's settlement will be reduced by this degree.

For example, you are found to be 20% at fault for a slip and fall accident aboard a commercial fishing boat. Your employer agrees to settle your case for $10,000 in additional damages – but you don’t get this full amount. Because you were 20% at fault, this reduces your settlement by 20% or $2,000. Your final settlement will be $8,000, which could make a big difference in your financial needs.

Having a high degree of fault can prevent you from recovering the necessary settlement amount that you need to support long-term effects from your accident. If you suffered serious injury, and your employer is trying to claim your negligence caused the boat accident, it may be time to seek a boat accident attorney in New Orleans.

Contact a Boat Accident Attorney in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney who handles cases of negligence that result in a boat accident in Louisiana can be found at The Young Law Firm in New Orleans. Our boat accident attorneys can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries while working on a commercial vessel.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

How Effective is the Death on the High Seas Act for Seamen?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)69364 — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

After the BP disaster in 2010, British Petroleum promised to pay the families of the workers killed in the Deepwater Horizon explosion for "all legitimate claims." Unfortunately, while they did pay, the damages were not always fair. One family received only $1,000 compensation for the death of a rig worker under the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA).

Because the Deepwater Horizon disaster was over three miles offshore, it qualifies under DOHSA. This 1920 legislation was designed to provide damages for the families of workers killed while employed over three miles off US coasts.

DOHSA was originally considered a great boon to seamen's widows, who were receiving nothing before it was enacted. However, over the years the protection has become outdated. Today it can be said that families of seamen killed on shore are eligible for more compensation than those killed at sea.

In June 2010, members of Congress listened to BP widows testify. After hearing the widows speak, Congress pledged to update the law. But the cruise ship industry is dead set against this reform. Why? Because so many are lost at sea and the companies do not want to face huge lawsuits. From 2003-2007, 36 people were lost at sea on cruise ships, including two crewmembers.

So, the cruise ship industry continues to try to minimize any changes in current law in order to protect itself, while honest seamen continue to fight for their rights. And the only way for them to find true justice is to seek help from an experienced maritime law attorney.

If you have lost a family member working at sea, you are entitled to the full protection of the law. The Young Firm has successfully represented many families like yours. Call us toll free today at 866-938-6113 to get your questions answered. We want to help.

Injured Your Back Under Admiralty Law? Avoid Aggravating the Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68380 — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you suffer an on-the-job injury in an offshore or boating accident, you should avoid returning to work before you're completely healed. If you're pressured to return to work early, you should speak with an injury lawyer in New Orleans with experience handling claims under admiralty law.

3 Ways to Aggravate a Back Injury

When injured employees return to work too soon, they risk worsening their injury and jeopardizing their injury claim

Prolonged sitting - Even if you're allowed to take frequent breaks from your job, you should know that more weight per square inch is exerted on your lower back discs while you sit rather than while you stand. When you stand, your legs bear a lot of weight, but when you sit, your lower back gets the lion's share.
Bending at the waist - If you bend over without bending your knees, you can easily strain your lower back.
Sudden jolts - Stormy weather can cause sudden jolts on a boat, which could aggravate an injured spine.

It would be beneficial to speak with an injury lawyer in New Orleans after you've suffered a serious maritime injury. A shipping lawyer well-versed in admiralty law can help you prepare a claim to fight for the compensation you deserve. Although we are based in New Orleans, we represent clients throughout the country.

Contact a an Injury Lawyer in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Thousands of Gulf Oil Spill Workers Participating in Health Study

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)70262 — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

November 2011 – Gulf Coast – Workers who aided in the cleanup efforts following the April 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion are the target of a new health study. Their participation in the ongoing cleanup of the largest crude oil spill in U.S. history has provided a unique opportunity to determine the short-and long-term health risks these workers face.

NOLA.com reports that the National Institutes of Health have secured nearly 2,800 participants in what is being regarded as the largest and most significant study of health effects after an oil spill. Chief epidemiologist Dale Sandler began the push for participants more than 8 months ago with a goal of 55,000 participants, so there is still a way to go before the real work can begin.

The focus of the study is to track the health status of workers who were involved in the cleanup efforts with hope that at least 20,000 of the initial participants could be tracked for a decade or longer. Participants were sought using the records from training programs the cleanup workers had to attend, plus employee records from BP and the cleanup contractors.

NIH’s target list contained 155,000 workers and volunteers who received telephone calls and letters starting in February 2011. Unfortunately, response has been slow, which the researchers believe is due to general distrust and an onslaught of other research requests.

Many workers have also received counsel from civil attorneys who advise clients not to participate in these studies. Outdated contact information and general lack of communication response also factor into the low participation levels, according to Sandler.

Still, the NIH is not giving up on their goals and have begun to fulfill their need for participants in other ways. Sandler completed a tour of the Gulf Coast to attend community meetings and speak with local health authorities about the need for participation. Her 4-day tour took her along the Louisiana-Mississippi coast where she met with several workers, volunteers and Gulf Coast residents.

If you are a maritime worker or volunteer who was involved with the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion and spill cleanup efforts or are a coastal resident of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida or eastern Texas, you are encouraged to participate. More information can be found on the NIH website, www.nihgulfstudy.org.

Contact a Gulf Coast Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Hire a Boat Accident Attorney before Accepting a Louisiana Settlement

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68387 — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you are being pressured to settle your Louisiana personal injury claim, you should first discuss your case with a boat accident attorney. If you fear repercussions, you should know that the Young Firm attorneys helped Lafayette, La. clients along with others across the U.S., to successfully return to work after their claims were resolved.

It's never a good idea to accept a quick settlement after you have fallen victim to a serious maritime injury.

Why You Shouldn't Accept a Quick Settlement

Suppose you suffered a serious burn injury and you think you might need future medical care. Before you know whether you'll face any complications, your employer may ask for a settlement figure.

If you give them a figure, they'll likely pay you much less and you'll be out of luck if you suffer serious complications that could lead to:

skin grafting to help tissue regenerate;
surgery if wounds fail to close on their own; and
extensive time in the ICU if you develop sepsis.

All treatment should be performed before a value is placed on your claim. If necessary, your boat accident attorney can consult with expert witnesses to place a fair value on your Louisiana personal injury claim.

Contact Attorneys in Lafayette, La.

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

The 3 Types of Employment-Related Payments after a Maritime Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68394 — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A serious maritime accident may keep you out of work for weeks, even months, as you recover from your injuries. During this time, you may lose out on income that's necessary for you to keep up with your daily needs. Your settlement for your Jones Act injury claim needs to reflect these losses and compensate for them.

There are 3 main types of employment-related payments a typical maritime worker may receive: wages, maintenance and cure:

Wages are the normal hourly or salary payments you receive as per your employment agreement;
Maintenance is a daily stipend you are entitled to if you are not offshore where regular needs like lodging and meals are not provided; and
Cure is payment for the medical expenses and treatment available after the accident.

As an injured maritime worker, you may be entitled to include all 3 of these employment-related payments as part of your settlement.

If you feel your employer is not upholding your rights to compensation under the Jones Act, you should speak with a New Orleans maritime injury attorney. Your attorney can assist you in estimating the value of your Jones Act claim and provide guidance in reviewing and accepting a settlement that fairly compensates you for your losses.

An Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana, is Your Attorney for Jones Act Claims

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A New Orleans lawyer from The Young Firm can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident on an oil platform in the Gulf of Mexico or other injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or tollfree at 1-866-938-6113.

Do I qualify as a seaman?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68389 — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Two of the most commonly used terms when determining the laws that apply to your maritime injury claim are "navigable waters" and "seaman." These are terms of classification for a maritime worker to know when seeking rights and protections under Maritime Law or Jones Act Law.

The term "navigable waters" applies to both laws, and it means any body of water that can be navigated. This includes the obvious bodies like oceans and rivers but also can apply to inland lakes and canal systems. Maritime Law provides protection to a worker who works on or near a body of navigable water, which can range from dock workers to onboard mechanics.

When applying Jones Act Law to your maritime injury claim, you need to determine if you qualify as a "seaman" or not. The laws define a seaman as a worker who spends the majority of his or her employment on a moving vessel in navigable waters, such as an oil tanker or commercial fishing boat. The Jones Act would most likely not apply to workers on a fixed offshore platform or at a marina.

Determining your classifications for an injury claim can make the filing and resolution process much more frustrating, especially when you are trying to focus on recovering from your injuries. No matter what law applies to your case, you always have the right to consult a maritime attorney to help you determine the difference between Jones Act Law cases and Maritime Law cases.

Contact an Attorney in Louisiana for Jones Act Law Cases

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney who handles offshore injuries under the Jones Act in New Orleans can be found at The Young Firm. Our Jones Act and oil spill attorneys can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries while working on an offshore platform, at a marina, or on a vessel.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Disadvantages of a Company Doctor Looking at Your Offshore Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68392 — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Under maritime and Jones Act law, you have the right to choose your own doctor to treat any injury you sustain while working in a maritime profession. However, many maritime workers are never told about this option and are falsely led to believe that they have to see the company doctor. In the event that this occurs, know that a New Orleans injury lawyer can help you seek justice.

Disadvantages of Seeing a Company Doctor

While you can take this option, it's usually a much better idea to choose your own doctor because the following could happen:

incomplete testing and diagnosis;
delay in reporting test results and symptoms;
inaccurate assessment of special treatment needs; and
generalized assessments of workers' health.

It's this last factor that you need to worry about the most when filing an injury claim under Jones Act or maritime law. General assessments of a worker's health usually don't provide the necessary evidence of a workplace injury. You sometimes need a specialist to diagnose work-related injuries or conditions, and you have the right to seek a specialist of your choice.

To avoid these and the many other disadvantages of using the company doctor, you should exercise your right to choose your own physician. A New Orleans injury lawyer who's focused on Jones Act and maritime law can help you understand your rights in regards to choosing your medical treatment after an offshore accident.

Contact a New Orleans Injury Lawyer or Attorney in Lafayette

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney near Lafayette from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered injury in offshore oil rig accidents or other accidents and injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured in offshore oil rig accidents to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact our New Orleans injury lawyer team today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Recorded Statements and your N.O. Offshore Injury Claim: 4 Myths

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68382 — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

You're going to want to give yourself every advantage possible when filing an offshore injury claim - and a recorded statement may not be in your best interest. Under the Jones Act Law, you don't have to provide anyone with a recorded statement unless you choose to do so.

4 Recorded Statement Myths for Offshore Injury Claim

Common myths surrounding your "requirement" to give a recorded statement:

your employer can deny medical treatment until you give a statement;
the interviewer that questions you is working in your best interest to provide evidence for a fair settlement;
you can lose your job if you don't provide a recorded statement; and
your claim will be denied without a statement.

Many employers try to get your statement on tape as soon as possible when you haven't had time to process the details of your accident. This can result in statements that can be taken out of context to ruin your claim.

If your employer is asking you to provide a recorded statement you have the right to refuse to do so. It's usually best to have an accident report written up instead to provide your information on the accident and your injuries. If you're ever in doubt of your offshore injury claim requirements for accident reports and statements, contact a maritime law firm in New Orleans.

After an Offshore Explosion, Contact a Law Firm in New Orleans

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from a law firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though The Young Firm is are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

The Value of Your Jones Act Claim Includes Your Future

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68393 — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A maritime injury while working at an offshore site can be costly at first. You'll be accumulating doctor bills for the immediate treatment and recovery from your injuries. Losses will also occur for the time you are unable to work, and you may need additional support like special medical equipment or assistance following your accident.

These are all the initial expenses and losses you may face after a serious maritime accident, but they're not the only expenses. Depending on the nature of your injury and your long-term prognosis, you could face many other expenses and losses down the road. A few examples include:

being unable to return to full-income work or any work at all;
requiring special living assistance such as medical equipment or home health care;
needing ongoing therapy or treatment for your injuries; and
suffering permanent disability.

All of these potential issues that may arise in the future will cost you as well, and your Jones Act injury claim settlement amount needs to reflect these potential future expenses.

By working with a Jones Act injury attorney who has experience with several past claim settlements, you can get a true estimated value of your claim. This will help you when it comes time to negotiate the settlement with your insurance company, as it can save you from accepting too low of an offer. If this happens, your attorney may be able to help you negotiate a larger settlement through a Jones Act lawsuit.

An Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana, is Your Attorney for Jones Act Claims

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A New Orleans lawyer from The Young Firm can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident on an oil platform in the Gulf of Mexico or other injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or tollfree at 1-866-938-6113.

Seeking a Treating Physician after Offshore Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68390 — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Patient comfort can have a substantial impact on the effectiveness of treatment for a serious injury. As a maritime worker, you have the right to choose your own treating physicians after you've suffered injuries while working. When this right is denied, it's time you speak with a New Orleans injury lawyer.

Being treated by a physician you know and trust helps you avoid mistreatment or unfair tactics to discredit your work injury claim. It's common to feel nervous or anxious when seeing a new doctor, and your right to choose your own personal physician to evaluate and treat your injuries can help you avoid those feelings. This can result in better treatment and recovery when you're familiar with their practice and trust the doctor is doing the best for your well being.

Company physicians typically don't exemplify this great patient-doctor relationship. They usually don't know your history and can often gloss over details of your injuries when performing general treatment. Some serious types of maritime injury require specialists, which your company physician may be reluctant to provide.

An employee injured while working on an offshore oil rig where accidents can easily occur has the right to seek medical treatment from the doctor of his or her choice. If your employer blocks you from your right or tries to persuade you to see the company physician, a New Orleans injury lawyer can help.

Contact a New Orleans Injury Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney near Lafayette from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered injury in offshore oil rig accidents or other accidents and injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured in offshore oil rig accidents to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact our New Orleans injury lawyer team today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Maritime Workers Should Consider a Fall Flu Shot

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)69234 — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

The winter months can be rough on workers who are out at sea. Chilly temperatures and even chillier waters can wear down your resistance and make working even more strenuous. When you're working in rough weather conditions, it can take a toll on your health and leave you more vulnerable to the flu.

Luckily, flu shots can help many workers avoid coming down with respiratory illnesses and fatigue associated with the flu virus. There are many options to obtaining a flu vaccination, including:

nationwide pharmacies such as Walgreens or CVS;
local health departments;
personal physicians; and
company doctors.

Your employer may cover an annual flu shot through their company doctor, so it's important to check with them first to see if your health benefits cover the vaccine.

Even with the flu vaccine, it's important to watch your personal health during harsh weather and working conditions. Your personal health and safety come first as a maritime worker, and you should raise any concerns with your employer if you feel that your job is taking a serious toll on your health and well-being.

If you work in colder climates, remember to wear proper clothing for the conditions and avoid overexertion, which can lead to a weakened immune system. With a flu shot and proper personal care, you can help prevent being laid up for weeks with a serious illness!

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Does your Maritime jobsite "move"? It matters to your claim!

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68388 — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are so many types of maritime jobs that can qualify an injured employee for protection under the Jones Act Law, Maritime Law or even both. One of the main things maritime attorneys look at when reviewing a claim is the type of workplace at which a client was employed when he or she sustained the injury.

For general Maritime Law cases, a worker can claim protection and rights under those laws if he or she was employed on or near "navigable" water. Navigable water is defined as almost any body of water that can be used for navigation. This would include large bodies like lakes and oceans, but also smaller waterways like channels, canals and rivers.

For the Jones Act Law to apply to your case, you must be employed in navigable water, but also must be on a vessel, such as an oil tanker or commercial fishing boat. This will cover most workers, but there is one area of employment that raises some questions: fixed offshore platforms.

When workers are employed on a stationary offshore platform such as an oil rig, their injury claims generally will fall under the laws of the state or country where the platform is stationed closest. If you work on an oil platform off the coast of Louisiana, you'll need an attorney who handles maritime and Jones Act in New Orleans to determine your rights.

An attorney in Louisiana for Jones Act claims will be your best source of information when trying to determine your jobsite classification. Understanding the classification of your employment is important to determining whether your claim falls under Maritime Law or Jones Act Law.

Contact an Attorney in Louisiana for Jones Act Law Cases

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney who handles offshore injuries under the Jones Act in New Orleans can be found at The Young Firm. Our Jones Act and oil spill attorneys can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries while working on an offshore platform, at a marina, or on a vessel.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Protect Louisiana Maritime Claim; Hire a Boat Accident Attorney

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68385 — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A boat accident attorney may be good for your health if you've suffered a serious maritime injury. If you don't consult an attorney your health could suffer because you may not get the necessary compensation for your medical tests and other expenses. You may benefit by meeting with the Young Firm attorneys, for your Lafayette, La., case who represent clients all over the country.

If you try to handle your Louisiana personal injury case on your own, you'll likely be sent to the company doctor who most likely will refuse to perform costly diagnostic exams such as an MRI or nerve conduction studies. Without the proper diagnostic tests, you won't know the full extent of your injuries and won't be able to place a value on your claim.

When the company doctor refuses to give you an evidence-based diagnosis, you should get a second opinion from a doctor you trust. This is a red flag, a warning that the company is already snubbing your Louisiana personal injury claim and may do everything to avoid a fair settlement. Before you get caught in this predicament, you should consult with attorneys who serve Lafayette, La.

An experienced boat accident attorney can provide guidance to help you prove that your employer is responsible for your injuries and help you prepare a solid claim to get compensation for all of your:

medical needs;
lost wages; and
incidental expenses related to the accident.

Contact Attorneys in Lafayette, La.

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

Common Injuries Louisiana Seamen Face on the Job

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68573 — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Working in the maritime industry can be dangerous. Most Gulf Coast seamen work at jobs that involve physical strength, dangerous machinery and, of course, the hazards of being at sea. While no one wants to be injured on the job, it does happen - and the possible types of injuries are almost endless.

What are the most common injuries for Louisiana seamen? They fall into these basic categories:

Back injuries caused by physically demanding work are the most common injuries for all United States workers, and that includes the maritime worker. The physical work of lifting, pulling and twisting can take a toll on the human back. Back injuries can be cumulative, worsening over time, or sudden, the result of one incident or accident.
Being struck by or striking against an object is almost as common as back injuries. You can be hit by: falling objects, mooring lines, hinged doors, cargo or hatches. You can also fall or slip into the many structures on the ship and be injured.
Falling is a common cause of injury. You can fall from ship to water, dock to water, from a high point to the deck or dock, or into a hold below deck. Slips are common maritime accidents too. Both can result in serious disability for workers.
Chemical injuries include exposure to chemicals used onboard the ship or exposure to hazardous cargo substances. Cleaning solvents, fuel, paints, and pesticides are only a few of the many chemicals that can make you sick.
Other injuries include damage to hearing and vision, burns, crush injuries, lacerations, drowning and psychological trauma.

If you have been injured working in the maritime industry, you have unique rights provided by the Jones Act, including a safe place to work and, unlike many other workers, the right to sue your employer for damages. Contact the Louisiana maritime law experts at The Young Firm toll free today at 866-938-6113 to schedule your free initial consultation.

Helpful but not Needed: Filing Offshore Accident Report in New Orleans

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68381 — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Filing a claim under the Jones Act Law is still possible even if you didn't file an accident report at the time of your injury. Law firms in New Orleans can help you with the paperwork for any claim or report.

It's still in your best interest to file a written accident report with your employer and you should attempt to do so as soon as possible. Unfortunately, many employers attempt to avoid this documentation by telling you to delay the report until you're recovered. Sometimes this results in missing your window of opportunity to file the report as evidence in your offshore injury claim.

This isn't the end of the line for your claim! Many Jones Act Law claims have been successfully settled by our law firm in New Orleans without an accident report. It takes a bit more work on our side, but as long as you have other evidence to prove that your injury occurred because of negligence while you were working, we can help.

You'll want to document everything possible about your offshore explosion or other maritime accident and injuries. The more evidence you have to support your claim that another party's negligence caused the accident and your injuries, the more integrity your claim will have.

While accident reports are beneficial to your injury claim, recorded statements may not be. You should be careful to keep discussions about your accident between yourself and your attorney and learn what's necessary to file your claim.

After an Offshore Explosion, Contact a Law Firm in New Orleans

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from a law firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though The Young Firm is are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

BP Returning to the Gulf, Safely This Time?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68572 — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

While some time has passed since the horrific 2010 Deepwater Horizon accident, every Louisiana seaman remembers the 11 men who were killed and the 17 others who were injured. The victims came from all over the Gulf Coast, and too often they are forgotten in the political battle that has been waged ever since.

Prior to the tragedy, 69 workers had been killed and 1,349 injured on Gulf Coast oilrigs since 2001. And afterwards, oil industry production was severely cut back, as many studies and restructuring took place. This meant many seamen lost their jobs.

But all that is about to change. According to Louisiana's Pelican Post, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) gave British Petroleum (BP) access to the Gulf of Mexico with the first drilling permit since the 2010 Deepwater Horizon tragedy. The news was released the end of October 2011.

BP will begin drilling off the coast of Louisiana in its Kaskida Field soon. Even though some Washington politicians have objected to BP's return to the Gulf, its largest oil producer will indeed return. Their return promises a return to work for many Louisiana seamen.

The maritime legal team at The Young Firm hopes that the enhanced safety regulations and awareness resulting from the BP disaster will carry over into the jobs of our Louisiana offshore workers. Nothing is more important than human life and safety.

Injured Under Admiralty Law? Don't Fear Being Blacklisted

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68379 — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you suffer a serious injury in an offshore or boating accident, you should not return to work until you've thoroughly recovered. A shipping lawyer with experience in admiralty law, also referred to as maritime law, would be an excellent resource at this time. In fact, you should speak to an injury lawyer in New Orleans as soon after your accident as possible.

If you return to work too soon, you risk aggravating your injury and getting blamed for aggravating your injury. In this situation, it's critical that you consult with an injury lawyer in New Orleans.

Don't be afraid of being blacklisted if you contact a shipping lawyer. The rumor that you'll be blacklisted was started years ago to keep employees from filing suit to get the compensation they deserve.

The Young Firm in New Orleans, which represents admiralty law clients throughout the country, has handled many claims for injured workers who didn't lose their offshore jobs after their claims were resolved.

When you seek future employment after you've suffered an on-the-job injury, you should be honest about your injury and medical treatment. However, you should not volunteer information about past lawsuits, and potential employers shouldn't ask about past lawsuits. Keep in mind that you're not obligated to answer any such questions on an application.

Contact a an Injury Lawyer in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

4 Tips to Help Louisiana Offshore Workers Cope While Away from Family

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68374 — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're truly in love, it can be really tough to spend weeks or months away from your significant other. If you work in the maritime industry, you know what we mean.

However, the following coping tips may help you stay positive while you labor far away from home.

Whether your schedule is 7 days on and 7 days off or several months on and several months off you must recognize that you won't be offshore forever. Think about all the good times you've shared and reminisce about past memories. This encourages you to make plans for new memories.
Communicate often via email. Ask what your family has been up to and let them know you miss them and are eager to return home. Frequent communication can help you feel better. Communication also provides reassurance that you'll be together again soon.
Find a few co-workers you like and spend time together. If you spend too much time alone your focus can shift to your loved one's absence.
Get some exercise. Even if it's just a few push-ups and crunches every now and then, stay active. This can help improve your mood.

Remember the old saying, "absence makes the heart grow fonder?" Keep the above coping tips in mind to ease your heartache while you're offshore working.

Contact Maritime Injury Attorneys

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

2010 Gulf Oil Disaster Still Causing Leaks of Oil and Gas on Sea Floor

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68375 — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When the Deepwater Horizon spill occurred in April 2010, it caused months of environmental concerns as crews worked to stop the leak and clean up the aftermath. Even now, workers are still out there making sure the leak no longer affects the Gulf Coast.

Unfortunately, recent assessments of the conditions of the Gulf of Mexico from the Gulf Rescue Alliance reported by Real-Agenda.com show that there are still oil leaks actively spilling into the waters, due to the instability created by the initial spill. There are many concerns with the current toxicity of the Gulf, due to the oil itself and one of the chemical dispersants used in the cleanup efforts.

High levels of the Corexit dispersant are causing concerns for marine life in the area, and it's a public health risk. Not only do the toxins pose a risk to commercial divers and other Gulf maritime workers who use these waters, but there is also a great deal of concern with the stability of the sea floor.

Geologic expert BK Lim provided the Congressional Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Subcommittee on Environment and Economy with a detailed assessment on his review of the status of the Gulf's bottom. He believes that there is potential for shifting of the lower and upper crust, shallow earthquakes, seabed erosion, and even submarine landslides that could cause additional chances of a tsunami.

Maritime workers who have been exposed to toxic conditions resulting from an oil spill may suffer a number of complications. Some may manifest at the time of the accident, such as burns and blunt trauma. In many cases, the injuries are toxic, taking months to manifest as poisoning and chronic diseases.

As a maritime worker, you have the right to know about the hazardous conditions in which you work. If you believe your job has exposed you to toxic hazards or you are suddenly injured in an accident like an oil rig explosion, you should contact a maritime attorney as soon as possible to review your case.

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in an oil rig explosion or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Maritime Safety Concerns Working on Gulf of Mexico Docks

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)68217 — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Each year the United States imports and exports millions of tons of cargo through its ports in container ships. These ships must all be loaded and unloaded each time they dock, which creates many opportunities for worker injury and even death.

For example, an Oakland, California man died in August of 2008 when he fell off a container ship into the water and drowned. The U.S. Coast Guard reported that the 77-year-old man, Delmont Blakeney, was helping with an offload job when he noticed that a locking device that held the containers was not working correctly.

Blakeney was killed when the locking device came loose and the container spun and hit him. He was pinned between the container and the ship's rail for a moment. He then fell into the water.

Many safety concerns were raised following the tragic accident. During investigations, the following facts and questions came to light:

Blakeney was in the icy water 40 minutes before a ladder could be found to pull him out. Where were the ladders and other safety equipment?
Blakeney fell because of a faulty locking device.
The same month, another longshoreman had fallen in the water when a line snapped, breaking his arm, and a full hour passed before he was rescued, again because there were no ladders or safety equipment close at hand.
The Oakland harbor docks are far above the water line, and there is no way to get to dry land from the spot the men fell.

This incident is just one of many unfortunate accidents that occur in ports all over the country. In this case, safety equipment and proper maintenance of lines and machinery might have saved Blakeney's life.

The maritime injury specialists at The Young Firm in New Orleans offer their condolences to the family of the victim. They also urge all involved in the shipping trade to abide by safety regulations. And if you were hurt working at a Gulf of Mexico port, they urge you to fight for your rights.

Know Your Rights as a Gulf Coast Worker in Confined Spaces

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)67228 — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Maybe you have been working in a confined space on a Gulf of Mexico ship and have been hurt. There are many ways this can happen, and safety rules developed by the Coast Guard and the Occupational Safety and Health Association specifically address this kind of work.

The shipping industry employs many workers in both shipbuilding and ship repair. Every ship owner is aware of the regulations for confined space work, so it should be safe to do those types of task. Unfortunately this is not always true. Too many times shortcuts are taken and workers are injured, become sick, or even die on the job.

The Jones Act provides protection for seamen suffering confined space mishaps. You are guaranteed the right to "a safe place to work." In confined spaces this includes:

Proper ventilation
Well-maintained equipment and machinery
Removal of potentially hazardous materials, chemicals and gases

If you have become ill, been injured, or suffered skin irritation from confined space work, The Young Firm in New Orleans may be able to help you. We urge you to call us with any questions about your claim toll free at 866-938-6113. We proudly represent seamen throughout coastal Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida and Texas.

Whose Fault is it when New Orleans Vessels Run Aground?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)67414 — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a Gulf of Mexico vessel runs aground, there is a potential for great harm. Of the many maritime accidents that occur, grounding can cause damage to the environment, injury and death for ship workers, problems for the communities near the site of the accident, and financial losses for the industry.

The October 2011 grounding of a diesel fuel supply ship is a good example. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the Australian ship, the MV Island Trader, had run aground and that maritime officials there were investigating the accident.

The ship, which was loaded with 20 tons of marine diesel fuel, hit a sand bank while delivering island supplies. A local senator said that she had voiced concerns about the ship seven years earlier, saying the ship was "an accident waiting to happen."

The grounding raised many concerns that are shared all around the world.

People could have been injured.
The owner/operator may have played a role.
The pilot may have played a role.
Because the ship can carry up to 130 tons of fuel and safety procedures were not in place, it could cause an environmental disaster.
Pollution prevention booms were not in place.

Because vessel groundings continue to happen and human error causes most of them, it is safe to assume the majority could be prevented. If owners were all following established guidelines, many accidents and injuries might never have happened.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Louisiana maritime accident, please call The Young Firm. Based in New Orleans, we serve the entire Gulf Coast region. Our toll free number is 866-938-6113. Call us today for a free case consultation.

Preparing a Supply Kit for Hurricane Season in New Orleans

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66591 — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Although the end of hurricane season is approaching, storms can still develop, causing massive property damage and injuring hundreds of people. While the maritime industry works through the risks of natural disasters, maritime workers should be prepared while they are out at sea. When an accident occurs, know that a lawyer in New Orleans who specializes in maritime accidents is there to help.

Necessities of a Basic Hurricane Supply Kit for Maritime Workers

This list of hurricane supplies is versatile and should be shared with friends and family back home while you're working offshore:

water (1 gallon per person per day);
food (non-perishable, canned, packaged snacks, etc.);
blankets;
water-resistant clothing;
first aid kit;
flashlights with batteries; and
Ziploc bags for important documents.

Maritime workers should have a plan in place for when a hurricane or any other disaster strikes. As an employee, you have a right to your safety and your employer should protect it.

When you've been severely injured or lost a loved one in a maritime accident because of the carelessness of an employer or owner of a vessel or barge, speak to the lawyers at The Young Firm who understand your pain when disaster strikes. Although based in New Orleans, The Young Firm serves maritime workers around the country.

Contact a Maritime Accident Lawyer in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

Your Company's Insurance Coverage in a New Orleans Jones Act Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66239 — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you have been injured while working on a vessel or barge, your company should have insurance coverage that will provide you with the compensation you need for treatment, but sometimes you may have to fight for that compensation. When you need help filing a Jones Act claim, get in touch with a Jones Act attorney in New Orleans from the Young Law Firm.

When Your Company's Insurance Coverage May Not Cover Your Injuries

The aspects of your claim surrounding your injuries most likely will be carefully scrutinized by your company and insurance coverage may not be fully rewarded under the following circumstances:

you were not assigned to a vessel;
your accident did not directly cause your injuries;
you have not spent at least 30% of your employment working on a navigating vessel;
you delayed filing a suit; and/or
you have no evidence.

In any of the above scenarios, it is imperative you seek the help of a Jones Act attorney from the New Orleans Young Law Firm. Considering the attorneys there specialize in this line of work and have helped represent cases around the country, they, too, can help you prove you're a seaman under the Jones Act so you can pursue a fair and full settlement from your company's insurance firm.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney in New Orleans

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

3 Ways Filing a Jones Act Claim in New Orleans Can be Complex

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66238 — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

You may think a Jones Act claim is just like any other claim but it's not. In most cases, to receive a fair and full settlement, you may need to hire the assistance of a Jones Act attorney. Based in New Orleans, the Young Law Firm represents Jones Act cases around the country and has argued many cases similar to yours.

3 Reasons Why a Jones Act Claim Can Be Complex

Filing a claim under the Jones Act can have many complications, including the 3 listed below, which is why hiring an attorney is advised:

you first have to prove you're a seaman;
you have to verify that your injuries were the direct result of your accident; and
you have to establish that the kind of vessel you were on falls under the Jones Act.

If you're not considered a seaman, you may be denied the right to file a claim. This step of the process is important because it won't be until after you're proven to be a seaman that you can file a Jones Act claim.

Considering the fragility of your case, speak to a Jones act attorney from the New Orleans based Young Law Firm to help you seek justice and get the compensation you need and deserve for your injuries.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney at the New Orleans Young Law Firm

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Pursuing Jones Act Claim as a Seaman

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66019 — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Working at sea can be dangerous, and the hazards of marine life can be unpredictable. The Jones Act Law has been created to protect the rights of seamen who may become injured in accidents in navigable waters. Speak with the maritime lawyers at the New Orleans Young Law Firm when you need help filing a Jones Act Claim.

Filing a Jones Act Claim with Maritime Lawyers in New Orleans

When you've been injured and are considering pursuing compensation through a Jones Act Claim, you must meet the criteria of a seaman under the Jones Act Law.

After this is confirmed, you need to show that your employer was negligent, which caused the accident that resulted in your injuries. The Jones Act Law mostly applies to seamen on board a moving vessel, but it may be accepted if you're injured while working on a type of oil rig in navigable waters. Maritime lawyers can help determine that.

There are several damages for which you can acquire compensation. The maritime lawyers at the New Orleans-based law firm are capable of gathering evidence that shows your physical injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages or income, and past and future losses when it comes to fighting your case.

Contact Maritime Lawyers Based in New Orleans

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Why You Should Choose Your Own Physician After a Maritime Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66022 — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you've been seriously injured in a maritime accident, first know that you have a right to choose your own physician to treat you, and second, it'll be beneficial for when you file a claim, but most importantly, for your health. A maritime accident attorney in New Orleans can help when your rights have been tampered with and you need to file a claim.

Importance of Choosing Your Own Physician After a Maritime Accident

Your company may push you into getting an evaluation for your injuries with the company doctor, but you should be aware of the consequences you'll probably face if you commit to this. This can seriously damage your claim or lead to it being denied, and your health may be at jeopardy.

Many company doctors have the job of defending the company that they're in business with. They often downplay the serious nature of your injuries, mistreat your injuries and refuse to order additional specialized tests that may be needed to diagnose serious internal injuries.

If your injuries aren't properly examined, you may have a future ahead of you full of unexpected illnesses, disabilities and worse, an early death. That's why it's important to see a physician that you trust and to speak to an attorney. In New Orleans, the Young Firm has legal counsel you can seek that is familiar with maritime cases like yours and can protect your legal rights.

Contact a Maritime Accident Attorney in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Protect Your Jones Act Settlement in Alabama with a Jones Act Lawyer

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66015 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Under the Jones Act Law, if you've been injured while at work on navigable waters in Alabama, a Jones Act claim may be worth pursing; however, expect your company's lawyers and insurance company to investigate heavily in hopes of diminishing your claim. It'll be beneficial for you to hire a Jones Act lawyer for support and guidance.

How to Protect your Jones Act Settlement in Alabama

After your accident, there are many things you can do in order to pursue a fair and full settlement:

report injuries to your employer;
seek medical attention;
call the insurance company;
file a claim within 3 years (sooner is better);
gather contact information from witnesses;
keep all receipts and notes of doctor visits; and
hire a specialized Jones Act lawyer.

Although the insurance company and lawyers of your company may act as if they're looking out for your best interests, they aren't. It can be frustrating talking to them, and you may be confused as to what you can say and still receive a full and fair amount for your Jones Act settlement.

That's why it's important to get in touch with a lawyer who understands the complexity of Jones Act Law. A lawyer who is familiar and has dealt with cases like yours before makes the process of your claim smoother. You will also have a better chance of success.

Contact a Jones Act Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Filing Claims Under Maritime Law and Jones Act Law

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66025 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured while working on a sea vessel or oil platform, you may be able to pursue compensation for your injuries under Maritime Law, Jones Act Law, or both. It is imperative you seek professional legal help from lawyers in Lafayette, La., who specialize in these types of laws.

Overview of Maritime Law and Jones Act Law

Maritime Law: This typically concerns non-employers of a vessel or structure who become injured on navigable waters. It can include people such as passengers on a cruise ship, third parties, offshore workers, etc.

Jones Act Law: This only applies to employees who are considered seamen. Note that in order to be referenced as a seaman, your time working on a vessel in navigation needs to be 30% or more.

Although these laws seem easy to adhere to when you are filing an injury claim after a boating accident, it can get complicated when details of your accident are brought forth, especially when trying to prove negligence. Also, seamen are able to file suit under Maritime Law and Jones Act Law if they were injured on a fixed structure in navigable water such as an oil rig.

Different types of compensation can be given under these laws, and there may be numerous parties involved that are held liable, which is why it's important you hire help from lawyers in Lafayette, La..

Contact Lawyers in Lafayette, La.

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Two Barges Strike Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66754 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

On June 20, 2011 a barge struck a piling on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel in Virginia. The barge, which broke loose from its moorings, drifted into a stretch of the bridge-tunnel between the two tunnels, causing extensive damage.

Crews had begun repairs to the damaged portion of the structure, when, on September 13, another barge loaded with tons of rocks crashed into the
bridge tunnel again. Around 3:00 a.m., the barge struck a concrete piling, causing even more damage and shutting down bridge traffic for about an hour.

The company that owns the barges, Bayshore Concrete, has a policy that requires two tugboats to be with the barge as it passes through the trestles. A miscommunication from one tug driver to the other caused the September crash.

The company immediately responded with a safety meeting and a plan to install extra fender systems on their barges.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in either accident. But the chances of someone being hurt on the barges or even the roadway above were very real.

It is the responsibility of maritime companies to be sure their employees and the public are kept safe. One violation of safety policy, operation of improper equipment or bad judgment can have serious consequences.

If you or a loved one has been injured on a Gulf Coast maritime job, you need to protect your rights. Call The Young Firm today toll free at 866-938-6113 to learn about your options. We represent injured seamen in Louisiana and throughout the Gulf Coast states.

Why You Should Get an Attorney in New Orleans for your Jones Act Court Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66301 — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're pursuing a claim for your injuries under the Jones Act, it is within your rights to file it yourself but it's highly advised that you get an attorney because otherwise you may not get the full payment of the compensation you deserve. An attorney in New Orleans at the Young Law Firm specializes in Jones Act claims.

Importance of an Attorney in New Orleans for Your Court Case

After you've been injured, you should be aware that your employer will go to great lengths to make sure your settlement is low. Be wary of your company's insurance company and lawyers trying to gather information from you that they can use against you.

Considering the extremes your employer will go, it's necessary and imperative to contact an attorney from the New Orleans Young Law Firm to protect you and your legal rights. It'll be beneficial to have an attorney at hand, too, in case your Jones Act claim goes to court, as many of them do.

An attorney will be tasked with:

gathering evidence;
collecting documents; and
conducting interviews of witnesses, all of which can be vital to the outcome of your claim.

Whether you file in state or federal court, your attorney in New Orleans from the Young Law Firm can help you receive a fair and full settlement.

Contact an Attorney in New Orleans

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Why You Should Hire Maritime Lawyers in Lafayette, La., After Boating Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66024 — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you've been seriously injured in a boating accident, it'll be in your best interest to seek out maritime lawyers in Lafayette. Maritime Law is complicated, and there are specific rules regarding your boating accident injury that'll determine whether or not you'll be able to collect compensation.

How Maritime Lawyers in Lafayette, La., Can Help Your Boating Accident Case

When you're working in a location on navigable water and are injured, you may pursue a claim under maritime law or Jones Act Law. Your employer, the circumstances of your accident and where you were when you were injured are all factors that will have an impact on whether you can receive compensation under maritime Law, Jones Act Law, or both.

The Maritime lawyers in Lafayette, La., are dedicated to this line of work and understand these laws thoroughly. Considering they've fought numerous cases for maritime workers, they know what kind of evidence and documents need to be gathered in order to prove that your accident was caused by the negligence of another.

The maritime lawyers in Lafayette can also detect when you're being treated fairly and lawfully for your injury. After you've been seriously injured in a boating accident, it's best to seek out lawyers who specialize in maritime injuries to protect your legal rights.

Contact Lawyers in Lafayette, La.

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

5 Hurricane Facts for When Disaster Strikes in New Orleans

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66073 — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

August through October is considered the peak of hurricane season and maritime workers should be prepared for the worst. By knowing some of the basic facts about hurricanes, it may better prepare those working out at sea when a hurricane hits. If you've been injured in a maritime accident, an attorney in New Orleans can help you pursue a claim.

5 Basic Hurricane Facts

Prepare with the following hurricane facts for when disaster strikes:

60% of tropical storms become hurricanes;
tropical storms become hurricanes when they reach speeds of 74 mph or faster;
hurricanes are usually are 400 miles wide;
the storm surge of a hurricane can reach a height of 20 feet and a width of 50-100 miles; and
on average, 2 major hurricanes hit the United States every 3 years.

Fatalities have decreased because of the advancements in warning and watch systems but no one ever really knows when a hurricane can abruptly change direction and grow stronger.

When a hurricane forms, maritime workers are the first victims in an offshore injury or death. When a vessel isn't properly prepared for such a natural disaster, you may be able to pursue a claim with the help of a maritime accident attorney. In New Orleans, the Young Firm specializes in maritime law and can help you receive a fair and full settlement for your losses.

Contact a Maritime Accident Attorney in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Requirements for Filing a Jones Act Claim in New Orleans

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66072 — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Injuries that occur while working in navigable waters can be serious and disabling. Although you may assume that the Jones Act Law will automatically cover you, you have to prove that you're a seaman under the Jones Act to be protected. Contact an attorney in New Orleans at the Young Law Firm to see if you qualify and if you have a claim worth pursuing.

3 Seaman Qualifications under the Jones Act

If you meet all 3 of the qualifications that prove you are a seaman, you may be able to further pursue a claim:

30% of your work time is upon a vessel;
you must be assigned to a vessel(s); and
the vessel you are working aboard must be in navigation.

For many workers, such as a captain, who are not constantly aboard a vessel, it may be hard to determine the time frame you were assigned to a vessel in navigation.

It is difficult to know which documents are needed for evidence to prove you are a seaman, which is why you should seek an attorney at the Young Law Firm in New Orleans to protect your legal rights. Once you've established your status, you can choose where to file suit.

Contact an Attorney in New Orleans

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Importance of Getting an MRI After Maritime Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66021 — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Maritime accidents can cause major injuries that may not even be visible to the eye. That's why it's important for a maritime worker to have an MRI performed to get an accurate diagnosis. If you're seeking compensation for your injuries after a maritime accident, an attorney in New Orleans at the Young Firm can fight for your legal rights.

Importance of MRI Testing After Maritime Accidents

Some offshore drilling companies may demand that you go see a company physician, but understand that you don't have to. Companies do this to protect themselves because they know the doctor is on their side.

Also, whether you see your own physician or a company doctor, basic medical testing now should include an MRI. Many company doctors will bypass this step because the company isn't funding it, or they're defending the company.

Getting an MRI is important not only to your claim, but also your health. Having an MRI performed will indicate whether you have severe internal injuries to the soft tissue or ligaments in your neck, shoulder, back or any other areas of your body.

It'll be beneficial for you to choose your own physician that you trust to treat your injuries. After a maritime accident, you may be suffering physically, emotionally and financially, which is why an attorney in New Orleans at the Young Firm is here to help.

Contact a Maritime Accident Attorney in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Has Your Employer Done His Job in Louisiana Crane Safety?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66092 — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If cranes are not properly maintained, inspected and used on offshore Louisiana rigs, horrible accidents and even fatalities can happen. Being struck by the load, getting caught inside the swing radius or operating with faulty assembly are common causes of accidents.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) provides a list of common safety rules that you, your employer and co-workers should follow when operating a crane offshore:

Only qualified, trained personnel should operate a crane.
A qualified person should inspect the crane each time it is used.
The crane should be level and sitting on a stable surface.
Block and secure sections before unlocking or removing pins.
Barricade accessible areas and fully extend outriggers.
Be sure all crane parts are at least ten feet away from any lines.
Don't wrap hoist lines around the load, and inspect all rigging.
Use the load chart for the specific crane in use.
Always raise the load a few inches then stop to be sure the balance and brakes are working before continuing.
Never move a load over workers.
Use the crane manufacturer's instructions and follow signals.

If you have been injured in an offshore crane accident, even one of these safety rules was ignored, and that ignorance played a part in your injury, you may have cause to sue for damages. To find out more, contact The Young Firm in New Orleans for a free case evaluation. Call today toll free at 886-938-6113, or fill out the contact form on this page.

Defining Seamen Under Jones Act Law

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66017 — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're a seaman injured while on the job, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit under the Jones Act Law. Considering the damages that you endure could cost hundreds and maybe thousands of dollars, it'll be in your best interest to seek help from a maritime lawyer.

How the Jones Act Law Defines Seamen

In order to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation under the Jones Act Law, there are certain criteria you must meet.

First and foremost, you must be considered a seaman. Under the Jones Act Law, a seaman is referred to as an employee who's employed or assigned to a vessel that's in navigation on navigable waters. A seaman must spend 30% or more of his or her time working on the vessel to be able to collect compensation under the Jones Act Law.

A seaman may also pursue compensation for injuries if an accident happened on an oil rig in navigable waters; however, many times this situation falls under Maritime Law. It's necessary to contact a maritime lawyer when this happens.

If you're injured while working as a seaman, you should immediately seek medical attention and get in touch with an attorney. The Young Firm, based in New Orleans, has maritime lawyers who are trained and skilled to fight for your legal rights under the Jones Act Law.

Contact a New Orleans-Based Maritime Lawyer

The Jones Act Law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Importance of Jones Act Lawyer for Your Alabama Jones Act Settlement

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66012 — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you've been injured in an accident while working offshore, on a barge or anywhere in navigable waters in Alabama, a Jones Act settlement may be something you want to pursue. It only makes sense to hire a Jones Act lawyer who specifically understands the laws pertaining to your accident.

It's important to hire a Jones Act lawyer for your accident in navigable waters because he or she has studied and represented cases similar to yours before that fall under the Jones Act Law.

Companies that hire employees to work on navigable waters are supposed to follow suit with the regulations set under the Jones Act Law; however, many times accidents occur due to negligence, and your company's lawyers and insurance company will fight hard to reach a low settlement.

An attorney who specifically handles civil suit damages through a Jones Act settlement knows what's fair and what isn't. Your attorney understands the difficult challenges you may face and the employment you may miss due to your injuries.

When you've been seriously injured, you'll want to focus on treating your injuries and staying emotionally stable. The last thing you want to do is worry about how your accident and injuries will impact you financially. That's why you want look into hiring a Jones Act lawyer who knows how to fight for your legal rights under the Jones Act law.

Contact a Jones Act Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Jones Act Safety and the Gulf Coast Commercial Fisherman

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)66089 — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

With the profession listed as number one on all top ten lists of most dangerous jobs, commercial fishing safety must be taken seriously. Too many times fishermen are injured or even killed because their employers have not been careful enough.

Under the Jones Act, you have a right to a "safe place to work." Your employer should make sure your vessel is properly equipped and maintained, you and your co-workers are properly trained and there are enough workers to do the job safely and well.

The United States Coast Guard, citing the fact that fatalities in the fishing industry are five times higher than those for other domestic vessels, has set as their objective to "reduce fishing vessel casualties to levels approaching that of other commercial vessels."

How can that be accomplished? The Coast Guard has devised the "Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Program (CFVS), which includes:

Education
Voluntary inspection of vessels
Public awareness
Enforcement of existing safety rules

The point of this program is to help owners and operators to know the rules and follow them. However, as all fishermen know, sometimes shortcuts are taken. If it is too expensive, safety equipment may go unrepaired or never even installed, crew will be cut, the vessel may be unseaworthy, weather warnings may be ignored and seamen may be put on jobs they have not been trained to do.

The Young Firm in New Orleans knows the dangers you face each day as a fisherman and urge you to pursue your rights when you have been wronged. Call us today toll free at (866) 938-6113. And be sure to order a free copy of our publication, 6 Secrets Your Company May Not Tell You When You Get Injured Offshore.

Offshore Injury, Maintenance Benefits and the Jones Act Seaman

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)65504 — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

You have been injured working at your Gulf of Mexico offshore job and it is taking longer than you expected to recover. So far, you have been receiving Jones Act maintenance and cure benefits, and you are nearly finished with your medical treatments. But you wonder, "How long must my employer continue my maintenance payments?" Good question.

Maintenance refers to the amount you need to maintain yourself on land while injured. This means the costs of food, lodging, and monthly bills. Many employers pay maintenance rates of only $15 to $30 per day. Hopefully you are doing better than this. There is no basis in law for paying this low amount. If you feel you have been receiving too little, you should consult a lawyer for advice.

While cure benefits can continue even after you have returned to work, maintenance payments stop. Once you are back at work, you are considered able to maintain yourself. For this reason, it is important that you do not go back to work until you are physically able to do so. If your employer suggests that your maintenance costs will stop at a certain date and you know you are not ready to return to work, you have the law on your side.

The principle of maintenance and cure was designed to protect the seaman. If you have any doubts at all about your maintenance payments, contact The Young Firm immediately for help. We are experts in all facets of maritime law and can help you. Just call toll free: (866) 938-6113 or fill out the form on this page to get a free consultation.

Congressional Bill Proposes Offshore Rigs in Gulf Used as Artificial Reefs

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)65948 — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Rigs to Reefs Habitat Protection Act of 2011 is a congressional bill that was launched by Senator David Vitter. The bill suggests keeping offshore oil rigs that are not being used in the Gulf of Mexico as artificial reefs for marine life. Many pros and cons have been discussed in this proposal, such as the risk of a repeat of the BP Deepwater Horizon spill, but know that if an accident occurs, a maritime accident attorney in New Orleans can help.

After the catastrophic BP Deepwater Horizon spill, the Department of Interior mandated that all offshore rigs not in use need to be plugged up and extricated within 5 years. On the other hand, many advocates for marine life are saying the rigs have provided habitats and produced adequate fisheries.

Currently, there are about 650 rigs out of more than 3,000 in the Gulf that are no longer active, waiting in line to be plugged and pulled out of the water. The bill suggests that an assessment of the rig's region be conducted to determine if a substantial amount of marine life is present in the area and if removing the rig would severely damage the oceanic habits.

If the bill is passed, maritime workers should expect more work coming their way as restructuring and maintaining the artificial reefs will be necessary.

Contact a Maritime Accident Attorney in New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Wooden Boat Festival Brings Educational Fun to Louisiana

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)65951 — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

From October 15-16, the Wooden Boat Festival will take place in Madisonville, Louisiana, at the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum. This is a great opportunity for maritime workers to take a break and bring their friends and family to the historic site and soak up maritime history.

The festival will feature hundreds of wooden boats along the Tchefuncte River for visitors to take pleasure in and learn about the history and culture of maritime.

Take your children to the play area to get some energy out, and groove to the music while you snack on scrumptious food. Get your hands dirty with crafts, enter contests to win prizes and get lost in the beautiful artwork. Don't forget to watch the Quick n' Dirty boat parade!

Get the chance to walk through exhibits that explore life out in the water, learn how boats are made and how they have changed over time, take a hands-on field trip, see a lighthouse restoration and enjoy the scenic view of the Tchefuncte River.

It's a great adventure for everyone to enjoy but especially for maritime workers. This is a fun way to take advantage of your time off from work and spend it with your family not only to have a great time, but also to show them what the industry you work in is all about.

Injured in a Maritime Accident? An Attorney in New Orleans can Help

While the festival may be spectacular, cool and fun, maritime employees work in a dangerous industry, and serious accidents can happen causing your loved one pain.

A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help if you or your loved one has suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

How to Choose a Lawyer for Your Louisiana Maritime Injury Case

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)65502 — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured in a maritime accident and feel that it was not your fault, you may be thinking about contacting a lawyer. And you probably should. But how do you know whom to contact? Just because a lawyer says he is the best, is this true?

Here are a few tips for choosing the lawyer who will do the best job of representing you:

Get Personal Referrals: Ask friends or family members who may have had a similar legal problem if they might recommend someone. But don't take the advice to heart until you have met the lawyer yourself. Not everyone values the same things.
Search Online: There are many online sites that list the lawyers in your area. Some of these sites are better than others, though, so choose carefully.
Check With the Chamber of Commerce: Sometimes your local Chamber can steer you to a good, reputable firm.
Check Ratings: Every lawyer and law firm is rated. You can check the Better Business Bureau, the Martindale-Hubble ratings and other sources. A quick search online can give you good information.
Set Up an Interview: You should never accept a lawyer's services without a face-to-face meeting. You should feel comfortable in the office, know what lawyer you will be working with and understand the fees and conditions the law firm uses. You should also find out how long it will take to answer your calls, how often you will be updated on your case and whether the firm is known for promptness.

Maybe you think it is strange for a legal website to write a blog about choosing an attorney, when we obviously want you to select us for your Jones Act case. But it isn't! We are the best at what we do and want you to feel comfortable about working with us. At The Young Firm we can stand on our reputation as hard-working advisors who will do everything we can to defend your maritime rights.

Check our credentials, and then schedule a free consultation at our New Orleans, Louisiana office. We have been given an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau and our attorneys have earned the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell AV rating by representing seamen all along the Gulf Coast. Call us today toll free at (866) 938-6113 and choose a lawyer you can trust.

Does the Jones Act Cover Oil Rig Accidents?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64661 — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Whether or not the Jones Act applies to workers who are injured while working on offshore oil rigs is difficult to hypothesize in general terms. A Louisiana Jones Act lawyer at the Young Law Firm can listen to the specific details of your case and help you determine whether or not your oil rig accident injuries qualify for Jones Act protections.

Qualifying injuries that take place on an oil rig are covered by the Jones Act if they take place specifically on floating oil rigs or jack-ups. In theory, provided the oil rig isn't attached or fixed to the ocean floor, the Jones Act should apply. If the oil rig is attached to the ocean floor, then you would be eligible for the Longshoreman and Harbor Workers Compensation Act, but not for the Jones Act.

If you've suffered an injury while working aboard a floating oil rig or jack-up, contact a Louisiana Jones Act lawyer who can help you establish your claim for Jones Act benefits. You deserve to be compensated for your injuries, and an attorney at the Young Law Firm can help defend your rights and fight for benefits you need to cover your medical expenses, replace your lost wages, and minimize the effect of the injury on your life.

Contact a Louisiana Jones Act Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

STOP! Don't Try to Settle a Louisiana Jones Act Injury Case On Your Own

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)65038 — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured on a Gulf of Mexico maritime job and feel that your employer or a co-worker was negligent, you most likely have a very good chance to sue. But too many people like you do not understand the importance of seeking professional help and end up getting much less than what they deserve.

A good maritime lawyer will be able to guide you through the complications of the legal system and represent you in court. The qualifications you should consider are:

A good track record. The firm should win maritime cases and be able to show you the results.
Lawyers who specialize in maritime law. Some firms advertise themselves as maritime attorneys when they spend most of their time on non-maritime cases.
A support staff with much experience in maritime law. The staff should know how to deal with the stall tactics of company lawyers and know how to move a maritime case.
The firm is willing and able to go to court. Many firms work to settle cases, even when it is not in the best interest of their clients.
The firm is able to supply unsolicited testimonials. Some firms pay people to write about them. Good ones just get the good reviews without asking.
The firm has received awards and high ratings. If a firm has been successful, they should be able to show you evidence.
Caring is most important. Above all, a good law firm demonstrates caring and compassion, treating each of its clients with respect.

If you find yourself wondering where you can find all these qualities and more, you are in the right place. The Young Firm gets and deserves the confidence and respect of their clients. Call today toll free (866) 938-6113 to schedule a free consultation about your injury case. Let experience support you when you need it most.

Safety Tips During Man Overboard Drills on Jones Act Vessels

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64667 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Once, a boat crew was running a "man overboard drill" on a Jones Act vessel and attempted to recover a dummy in the water. One of the seamen leaned over the railing to reach the dummy and fell into the water when the handrail gave way. The man overboard drill quickly became a real scenario. It's important to treat safety drills as if they are the real thing, and there are certain tips you can keep in mind while running drills that will minimize the possibility of actual harm. If you are injured in an accident, contact a Louisiana Jones Act lawyer at the Young Law Firm who can help you file a claim for your injuries.

To stay safe during drills:

adhere to your company's best practices and procedures as closely as possible;
use Jason's cradle instead of leaning on hand rails;
all hand rails should be checked for damage and stability every week;
discuss safety alerts with your crew; and
most importantly - treat drills like the real thing.

As a crewmember aboard a Jones Act vessel, remember that in order to be eligible for the protections of the Jones Act should you ever be injured in an accident, you must demonstrate that you were not negligent, and thereby, that you did not contribute to your own injuries. Demonstrating your own familiarity with safety protocol is useful in proving the negligence on the part of the vessel owner. Speak with a Louisiana Jones Act lawyer who can help craft your case if you're hurt.

Contact The Young Law Firm

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. Just like ocean accidents require the attention of a federal body, the Coast Guard, maritime accidents fall under federal law. A maritime law attorney from The Young Law Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

Tips for Coping with Injury after an Offshore Mississippi Maritime Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64668 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've been seriously injured in a Mississippi maritime accident, you may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of suing for emotional distress and injury. An attorney who handles maritime accident cases can relieve you of the frustration and anxiety of handling court documents and proving your case against powerful insurance companies.

If you are injured in an accident, and, for instance, you are given emergency medical services by the Coast Guard, maritime accident law more likely than not applies to your case. An attorney will be able to explain this more in the context of the specific facts of your case, but that generally makes you eligible for certain benefits while you are still in recovery. While your attorney works on your case, here are some recommendations for coping with the psychological stress of injury and not being able to work:

Without straining yourself or disobeying your doctor's orders, engage in as much of your normal routine as possible.
Spend time with family and friends.
Join a support group for injured workers.
Consider meeting with an occupational therapist who specializes in injured maritime workers.

If you have been injured in an offshore Mississippi maritime accident, you can get help from an attorney who focuses on maritime law and may be able to win you compensation by suing for emotional distress and injury.

Contact a Louisiana or Mississippi Maritime Accident Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. Just like ocean accidents require the attention of a federal body, the Coast Guard, maritime accidents fall under federal law. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Louisiana Commercial Divers: Your Injury and the Jones Act

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)65036 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Gulf of Mexico commercial divers take risks every day on the job. Even though safety regulations have improved in recent years, injuries and even death occur regularly. That is why every diver needs to know if and how the Jones Act covers you.

The Jones Act covers anyone who qualifies as a "seaman," a term that has been under scrutiny by the courts for many years. Just how a diver qualifies as a seaman and, therefore, for the benefits of the Jones Act, may be murky. Hiring a qualified Jones Act attorney is your best bet if you are injured on the job. The following questions can help to determine if your commercial diving work is covered and if you can file a Jones Act lawsuit:

Are you employed by a commercial diving contractor?
Do you contribute to the function or mission of a "vessel in navigation"?
Do you dive from a vessel that is especially equipped for commercial diving?
Do you feel that the company or employers you work for were negligent?
Is the vessel you work on unseaworthy in any way?
Were you well trained for the job? Was your tender well trained?
Was your equipment well maintained?

These and many more questions must be answered to determine your Jones Act eligibility. And, if the Jones Act does not cover you, you may be covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act. But do not let your employer tell you what your options are if you are injured while diving. Too many times, they will steer you away from the strong legal protection of the Jones Act.

In order to be sure you receive the very best medical care and legal options following a diving accident, contact the maritime attorneys at The Young Firm, with over 50 years experience in representing Louisiana and Texas seamen. Call today toll free at 866-938-6113 for a free consultation.

Maritime Industry Rules that Coexist with Jones Act Safety Rules

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64663 — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Where and when you work is important when it comes to determining whether or not your offshore injury claim is governed by maritime law, the Jones Act Law or both. Most maritime workers don't consider what laws give them their rights to compensation and care when they suffer an injury in an offshore oil rig accident. That's where a Louisiana maritime lawyer who deals with maritime law and Jones Act claims comes in handy.

Maritime law applies to accidents that occur to workers while on "navigable water," which sounds like it would apply to all maritime professions. However, there is often conflict when deciding if an injury that occurs on an offshore fixed structure such as an oil rig platform would be covered under maritime law.

Fortunately, there is the Jones Act Law that provides rights to those workers classified as "seamen." If you are more or less permanently assigned (that is, 30% of your working time) to a vessel in navigation, you are considered a seaman protected by the Jones Act Law.

There are many other considerations to be made when filing your offshore oil rig accident claim. The difference between injuries that occur on platforms and ones that occur on barges can make a substantial impact on how your injury claim is settled. For the best assistance in determining these differences, consult with an attorney.

Contact an Attorney for Workers on Oil Platforms in the Gulf of Mexico

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

A Lawyer Can Prove Your Louisiana or Mississippi Maritime Accident Status

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64665 — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've been injured in a Louisiana or Mississippi maritime accident, you may already know that one of the surprisingly complex challenges is proving that your accident happened in such a way and aboard such a vessel that you qualify for certain protections and benefits under general maritime law. Contact a lawyer who can help you determine the status of your maritime accident and assist you with the process of suing for emotional distress or injury if your accident was caused by negligence.

When an accident occurs in the sea instead of on land, new rules apply about jurisdiction of law. For instance, when a boating accident occurs, the police don't respond - instead, calls are sent to the Coast Guard. Maritime law operates in a similar way. Instead of applying the laws of land mass that is closest, accidents that occur in the water fall under federal regulation and protection.

After a maritime accident off the coast of Louisiana or Mississippi, a maritime accident lawyer can collect evidence to demonstrate to the courts that your accident occurred on navigable waters, the No. 1 eligibility requirement to qualify for maritime law protection. This is a very important step toward getting compensation for your injuries and lost wages, so trust your case to a lawyer you can count on.

Contact a Louisiana or Mississippi Maritime Accident Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. Just like ocean accidents require the attention of a federal body, the Coast Guard, maritime accidents fall under federal law. A maritime law lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Seamen Beware of Dangers of Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)65001 — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

With peak hurricane season under way, more dangerous rip tides and marine hazards will be present. Currently, Tropical Storm Maria is near the east coast of the U.S., and more storms are expected to develop. If you're a seamen out on the water working in these types of conditions where a severe injury or even death can occur, know that a maritime attorney from the New Orleans Young Law Firm can help.

Although it's predicated that Tropical Storm Maria won't come close to the mainland of the U.S., it's still highly advised that you be careful while out in the water. There most likely will be strong winds and rip tides near the ocean shores, which means if you're a seaman working on a vessel or oil platforms, you may be in harm's way.

You and your employer should take precautious during these kinds of heavy storms and make sure your safety comes first. During these times, it's imperative that all safety regulations under maritime law and the Jones Act Law are heeded.

Serious injuries can occur, especially for seamen at work, and if your maritime accident or injuries were caused by negligence, you may be eligible to pursue compensation. Wherever you're located while at work on navigable waters, know that a maritime attorney at the New Orleans Young Law Firm is capable of guiding you to a fair and full settlement.

Contact a Maritime Attorney from New Orleans

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Why It's Important to Prove Your Injury Qualifies for Jones Act

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64660 — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've been injured in a maritime accident, determining if you qualify for Jones Act benefits can make a world of difference in the outcome of your claim. Seamen who qualify for Jones Act coverage are still eligible to file a general maritime claim as well, which means that you could receive additional benefits to help defray the high cost of medical expenses and daily living costs while you are unable to work. Speak with a Louisiana Jones Act lawyer at the Young Law Firm who can manage your claims from start to finish.

There are several important reasons you should investigate every opportunity to qualify for Jones Act benefits.

If you qualify for Jones Act benefits, you can still file a general maritime law claim and receive compensation through both;
The Jones Act's burden of proof is considered "featherweight" - meaning all you have to prove is that the employer's negligence contributed in some way, even if it's a very small way, to collect damages; and
Jones Act includes fringe benefits, such as meals your employer provided while you worked manual labor, retirement benefits and health insurance.

If you have been hurt in a maritime accident, speak with a Louisiana Jones Act lawyer at the Young Law Firm to determine if you qualify for Jones Act benefits.

Contact a Louisiana Jones Act Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

Trial by Jury: When Oil Rig Injury Claims Go to Court

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64637 — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

There is a wide variety of circumstances to consider when filing a claim for an injury suffered while working on an offshore oil rig. In some cases, your claim may settle out of court and never have to consider applying maritime or Jones Act Law. Other times, when negligence plays a large part in the cause of your accident, you may find yourself before a judge and a jury.

If your claim falls under the jurisdiction of the federal court, you have the right to decide whether or not your case is heard by a judge alone or if a jury will be present.

If your claim is brought to state court, especially in Louisiana, the defendant (normally your employer) also has the right to a trial by jury. This means if you request that your case is only heard by a judge, the employer can demand trial by jury instead.

The inclusion of a jury in the settlement of your offshore oil rig injury claim can be a deciding factor of a fair settlement for your damages. There are pros and cons to a jury trial which an attorney who focuses on maritime law and Jones Act claims can explain.

Knowing how your location on an oil platform versus a barge/ship when you suffered your injury is important. Different laws govern different worksite locations for maritime injuries, and this can have a substantial impact on how to handle your case. You should speak with a Louisiana maritime law attorney for additional help.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Differentiating Between Jones Act Law and General Maritime Law

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64633 — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're injured while on the job in Louisiana or Mississippi, a maritime accident attorney may be able to help you with the otherwise complex process of suing for emotional distress and injury in a maritime incident.

There are certain requirements you must meet in order for your case to fall under the laws of maritime law or Jones Act law. Maritime law applies to any injury that occurs as the result of an accident that takes place on a navigable body of water or waterway, such as the Gulf of Mexico or Mississippi River. If that condition is satisfied, then maritime laws apply. This is a federal law, and you can assume that if an accident warrants the involvement of the Coast Guard, maritime law applies.

Your accident may also fall within Jones Act law. The Jones Act is a federal law that gives more protections to injured workers who are generally permanently assigned to a vessel. In order to qualify as a Jones Act seaman, you must spend a certain amount of time working aboard a ship, and longshoremen are typically not considered Jones Act seamen.

If you've been injured in a Mississippi maritime accident that involved the Coast Guard or any other accident, contact an attorney who will assist you in suing for emotional distress and injury if negligence played a role in your accident.

Contact a Louisiana or Mississippi Maritime Accident Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Be Careful Who You Trust During Your Offshore Injury Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63801 — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

After a serious offshore injury while working aboard oil platforms in the Gulf of Mexico, you'll be the center of attention for quite some time while your injury claim is settled. Your friends and family will of course be concerned with your condition and recovery, but so will your employer and their insurance company.

Avoid Unfair Tactics for Your Rightful Compensation after Offshore Injury

Unfortunately, it's common to see employers and the insurance companies taking advantage of maritime workers. Be cautious of these deceptive tactics:

Getting you to sign documents you don't understand - medical release forms are the most common, and signing one without knowing what it means could give the insurance company information to damage your claim.
Demanding you see the company physician - you have the right to choose your own physician for any long-term treatment for your injuries.
Promising your medical care will be handled by your employer as long as you don't file a claim - There's no guarantee you'll get the complete care you need for long-term recovery if you don't file an injury claim and have the accident documented.
Abruptly forcing you to give a recorded statement - insurance companies often catch claimants off guard during these interviews and coerce them into damaging their own claims.

Before you file your maritime accident claim, you need to know what behaviors and events to avoid so you don't damage your claim. A Louisiana maritime lawyer can help you throughout the claim process so you have the best shot at a fair settlement.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Employer Negligence Can Cause a Diving Accident in Louisville

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63802 — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've been injured while diving in the course of your maritime-related employment, you may qualify for Jones Act Workers' Compensation to defray the lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering you sustained as a result of your diving accident.

Diving companies are required to follow certain safety procedures. Typically, a diving company can be held liable for injuries from a diving accident if it's shown that the company didn't meet the minimum requirements of these procedures, was negligent in its conduct, or failed to maintain equipment in a way that somehow contributed to the accident that caused the injuries.

Causes of Diving Accidents in Louisville

In a number of cases, diving companies may breach their duty to safety protocol for convenience or additional profit margins by:

Using improper decompression tables or experimental tables;
Bringing divers up too quickly;
Failing to provide adequate medical treatment or maintaining proper medical equipment;
Insufficient manpower or staffing;
Inadequate training;
Unsafe operation; and
Violation of Coast Guard safety procedures or failing to maintain adequate safety policies internally.

These are just a few of the examples of negligence that can give rise to a diving accident. Maritime accidents can entail serious injuries and tragic repercussions for the injured seaman or diver, so speak with a Jones Act workers compensation lawyer who can answer questions specific to your injury and help you determine the best course of action.

Contact a Jones Act Workers Compensation Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Important News for Every Injured Louisiana Seaman – A Recorded Statement Can Wait

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)64286 — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Have you been injured on the job while working as a Gulf Coast maritime worker? Be sure you are following the proper steps to get the best possible treatment and compensation. Many times your employer will ask for a recorded statement following your injury. Do you have to give one? Should you? Here are some general guidelines:

You are not required by law to give a recorded statement to your employer after an accident, even though your employer may say the company is required to do it to pay for your medical treatment.
Most of the time, a company will hire an insurance provider to "document your injury." Keep in mind that he overall goal for both employer and insurance company is to save themselves money.
If you do give a recorded statement you need to be very careful. Your employer will ask about the accident and can use anything you say in court later on.
Your employer may come to your house or even the hospital to get a recorded statement. You have the right to have your spouse or another trusted person at your side.
If you are on any type of medication that may influence your answers, be sure never to give a recorded statement.
You do not have to answer all of the questions you are asked in a recorded statement. It is your right to say you do not wish to discuss who was at fault. It is fine to say, "I don't want to talk about fault at this time."
Your employer wants you to say that neither he nor any one else was at fault. If your employer refuses to let you wait to discuss any issue, you know he is not on your side.
Always avoid giving a recorded statement if you can. It is best to wait until you have spoken to a professional expert in maritime law.

When accidents happen at sea, it is very important that the injured seaman knows his or her rights. Call the maritime experts at The Young Firm toll free at (866) 938-6113 to discuss this and other matters. We are here to represent your best interests.

Requirements for Emotional Distress Lawsuits after Boat Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63806 — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Boat accidents can cause a number of different injuries, and one of the most often overlooked impacts of a serious maritime injury is the psychological and emotional harm that is inflicted on the worker. If you've suffered mental trauma after an accident or injury that occurred during the course of your employment on an offshore vessel, speak with an attorney who has handled emotional distress lawsuits like yours and can navigate you through the process, from your maritime accident investigation all the way to your settlement.

In order to receive compensation for emotional distress lawsuits, claimants and their lawyers must satisfy what's known as the "physical injury or impact rule," which means that there must be some physical damage to the plaintiff to complement the psychological injury. The purpose of this rule is to give the court system a way to limit the possibility of an abundance of emotional distress lawsuits and claims from people who have witnessed traumatic boat accidents.

The issue of a purely emotional injury was first addressed in a case in 1989 but was denied by the court, so filing for purely emotional distress remains a murky issue, but if you have been injured or physically impacted in such a manner that caused psychological harm, you may be eligible for emotional distress damages as well.

Seamen harmed in boat accidents benefit from legal representation in the injury and emotional distress lawsuits that follow. If you have been injured, contact a maritime accident investigation lawyer today.

Contact a Maritime Accident Investigation Lawyer

The Jones Act provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered injuries in boat accidents injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. We have handled hundreds of injury and emotional distress lawsuits and claims. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Protecting Your Injury Claim During a Maritime Accident Investigation

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63805 — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Boat accidents are more frequent than many vessel owners and shipping companies would like to admit, and they carry with them serious physical and psychological ramifications for seamen who are injured in those accidents. Speak with a maritime accident attorney who has handled injury and emotional distress lawsuits like yours.

You probably already know to report an accident or injury to your supervisor as soon as it happens, but there are some other actions you can take to ensure your rights are protected throughout the maritime accident investigation.

Don't continue to work - it can exacerbate your injury and be used against you.
Get your co-workers who witnessed the event to write a statement about the conditions of the accident. Include their names and contact information.
Seek medical attention from a doctor you have selected.
Do not delay in either reporting the accident to your supervisor or in following up on your injury claim.
Follow all of your doctor's recommendations.
Speak with an attorney who can help you protect your maintenance and cure benefits while you are injured.

If you have been injured in an accident, speak to an attorney to ensure you are well prepared for the maritime accident investigation, and never sign anything that waives your employer's liability. Boat accidents are the responsibility of the employer and/or vessel owner, so defend your rights by contacting a lawyer today.

Contact a Maritime Accident Investigation Lawyer

The Jones Act provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered injuries in boat accidents, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. We have handled hundreds of injury and emotional distress lawsuits and claims. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

3 Ways Talking Can Damage Your Offshore Injury Claim

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63800 — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's natural to want to discuss a maritime accident and serious injuries with friends and family, but you must be careful to watch what you say and to whom when you seek to file a claim for damages after your offshore injury.

3 Major Ways You Can Damage Your Maritime Accident Claim

#1 - Social Media: We tend to make light of our injuries after suffering a serious accident, and if your latest post to your buddies says, "Ah, it's just a scratch, I'll get over it," your employer may think you're just overreacting. Don't post any updates or photos that may make the insurance companies question how serious your injuries are.

#2 - Your Employer: Immediately after the accident occurs, you should make sure your employer is aware of your offshore injury. However, you need to remember that they will be looking to avoid a claim and any record that may indicate they were negligent in providing a safe working environment. You should take caution that they don't try to downplay the severity of your injuries.

#3 - Insurance Company: A claims adjuster will be assigned to your case, and his or her job is to make your injuries seem as minimal as possible to avoid paying out a fair settlement. Don't allow them to take a recorded statement or gain access to your medical records without consulting an attorney first!

You can be your own worst enemy if you don't watch what you say and how you conduct yourself during the maritime injury claim process.

Contact a Louisiana Maritime Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Determining Jones Act Workers' Compensation for Maritime Accidents in Louisville

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63803 — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

After work-related maritime accidents, one of the first questions injured divers often have is whether or not they qualify for Jones Act Workers' Compensation after their diving accident.

Many diving companies, in an effort to restrict injured divers to making claims only under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, claim that divers assigned to different vessels owned by different proprietors are not Jones Act seamen, a ruling that was upheld in a court case in 1992.

However, since then, the issue has been revisited several times for further clarification by the U.S. Supreme Court, and now commercial divers are largely considered Jones Act seamen and are subject to all of the same rights and benefits therein. As with any legal matter, your rights and entitlements are better fortified when you enlist the services of an attorney who specializes in diving accidents.

If you have been injured in a diving accident or in any of the other kinds of maritime accidents that fall under the Jones Act, speak with an attorney who can help. With the assistance of an attorney, you can get the Jones Act Workers' Compensation benefits you are entitled to after a serious injury in the course of your employment.

Contact a Jones Act Workers Compensation Lawyer

The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Do You Qualify as a Louisiana Jones Act Seaman? Chances Are, You Do

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63832 — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you are employed doing maritime work in the Gulf of Mexico, you should be aware of your rights. And one of the most important things to be aware of is your status as a "Jones Act seaman". Do you qualify for the strong protection of this almost 200-year-old law?

While there is some debate about the definition of a Jones Act seaman, in 1995 the Supreme Court ruled in the case of Chandris, Inc. v. Latsis that workers who spend at least 30% of their time employed on a legally recognized vessel are eligible for Jones Act rights. Recognized vessels include jack up barges, Gulf of Mexico oilrigs and traditional supply vessels and crew boats.

The Jones Act allows a seaman to sue for injury or wrongful death in a trial. It is the most important protection the seaman has. In June of 1920, Congress adopted the Merchant Marine Act, which is also called the Jones Act. This basically gave the same rights to seamen as railroad workers already had. The Jones Act provides that:

"Any sailor who shall suffer personal injury in the course of his employment may, at his own election, maintain an action for damages at law, with the right to trial by jury . . ."

Simply put, if you are a seaman and think that someone else is responsible for your injury, you have the right to sue.

If you work at a maritime job, you need to know your rights. The Young Firm Jones Act attorneys specialize in maritime law. We spend our time representing people like you. Maybe you worry about what will happen if you are injured on the job, or maybe you have been injured and need professional help. Do not hesitate to call us TOLL FREE right away at (866) 938-6113.

Take Some Shore Leave for the 5th Annual New Orleans Seafood Festival

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63763 — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

September 1, 2011 - New Orleans, La. - If you have some shore leave this September, you may want to indulge in the bounty of the bayou!

From September 9 to September 11, the 5^th Annual New Orleans Seafood Festival will be taking place in Downtown New Orleans at Lafayette Square across from Gallier Hall. Maritime workers in the Gulf of Mexico are practically surrounded by seafood while at work, but rarely do you get to taste it prepared by expert chefs!

The festival will exhibit more than just delicious delicacies from the seas - live music, celebrity chef demonstrations and local artist booths will also be happening at the venue. The proceeds collected will go to the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation, which has been helping promote culinary education and arts as well as supporting the health and welfare of Louisiana's children.

Of course, the focus of the festival is the FOOD! Local restaurants will serve up Louisiana standards like poboys, crawfish, gulf shrimp, red beans & rice, and gumbo. There are also plenty of more unique menu items, like gator sliders, crawfish sausage, and even sweet offerings like mango sorbet and bread pudding.

If your mouth isn't watering yet, take a day or two onshore and check out the sights, sounds and smells of New Orleans' awesome seafood festival!

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Important 2011 New Orleans Fall Trade Shows for Seamen

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63764 — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

September 1, 2011 - New Orleans, La. - This fall, New Orleans will see thousands of visitors in town for 2 unique maritime industry conferences.

Biz Tradeshows has released the information for a pair of events geared toward work boats and offshore technology that could be very interesting to those employed in maritime fields.

The first trade show, Deep Offshore Technology International Conference & Exhibition, will take place from October 11^th to October 13^th at the New Orleans Hilton Riverside. The 3-day conference will focus on the technical issues regarding offshore oil and gas production in the deepwater basins across the globe. Exhibitors will be there to showcase new technology developments, equipment and procedures.

The second trade show, The International Workboat Show, will take place from November 30^th to December 2^nd at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Exhibitors will be showcasing the latest in canoeing and sailing vessels and discussing export and import of equipment. Many maritime workers are involved in the dockside manufacture, testing and transport of these vessels and may be able to learn some valuable information here!

So if you have some offshore leave time this fall and want to learn what's going on in your industry, you may want to stop off in the bayou for a day or two!

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Violations of BOEMRE Safety Inspections

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63117 — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Periodic safety inspections are part of BOEMRE's measures to provide a safe working environment for offshore oil rig workers. These onsite inspections ensure that oil rig operators have safety equipment installed to prevent explosions and other accidents.

These inspections are entered into the rig's record, and any instances of noncompliance are answered with a citation of safety violations. While the citation is merely a fine, it's also a red flag on the safety compliance record. If you're later injured in a serious accident on that rig, and it's known that there were prior safety violations that were never remedied, this can be a critical piece of evidence in your claim.

Your employer needs to correct all safety violations found by the BOEMRE inspector as soon as possible to avoid serious injury in an oil rig explosion accident. Many oil rig injury cases have been settled because it was found that the oil rig safety violations from past inspections weren't resolved in time to prevent the accident.

If you're injured in a Jones Act oil spill or other offshore rig accident, you deserve compensation for your injuries. You will need to prove that violations of safety rules and negligence of worker safety led to the accident and injury, and that's best accomplished with the help of a New Orleans Jones Act attorney.

Contact a New Orleans Jones Act Attorney for Help

As an oil rig worker, the Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. The Jones Act Law attorneys from The Young Firm in New Orleans can help you file an injury claim after a Jones Act oil spill resulting from an offshore oil rig explosion.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act claim, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Tips for Hurricane Safety While Working on a Boat

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63119 — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Historically, September marks the start of peak hurricane season for the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean. This means many offshore workers stationed on platforms, oil rigs, and on long-trip commercial vessels can be at higher risk for an offshore accident due to bad weather.

General Maritime Working Safety Tips for Bad Weather

Following these tips will help you avoid a maritime accident during a hurricane:

Secure equipment. Tie down large equipment and store small items in secured cabinets. Anything that isn't secured can become a dangerous projectile and cause a maritime accident.
Stock up. Make sure you have enough supplies to last at least 3 days if your vessel should become stranded. Remember that storm damage can knock out engines and generators. Don't forget medical supplies.
Report often. Contact your land base or the coast guard to alert them to your current position and conditions if you're offshore during a hurricane. This way you can be found more quickly after the storm passes.
Cease operations. If there's time enough to move your vessel, do it. Don't take chances and try to weather the storm just to get a little more work done. The price of your lives is much higher than the profit you'd make staying in the path of a storm.

If an employer with employees at an offshore location is negligent in taking the proper safety measures to avoid injury to their workers, they can be held liable if you're seriously injured in an offshore accident.

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries due to improper safety protocols during a tropical cyclone that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

Hurricane Season 2011 Predict More Activity

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63118 — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

August 23, 2011 - September marks the halfway point in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean hurricane season, but so far it's been quiet.

The yearly predictions reported by NOAA were updated in August to raise the quantity of expected named storms. The original season prediction issued back in May still showed that we would experience a more active season, but many May weather factors contributed to an even higher new estimate.

Currently, a tropical multi-decadal signal, warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures, and a possible return of the La Niña weather pattern are all adding to the expectations for more named storms and greater hurricanes.

The original numbers reported in May for named storms rose from 12 -18 to 14-19 and the number of hurricanes to hit increased from the May prediction of 6-10 to 7-10. NOAA predicts that 3-5 of the predicted hurricanes could be major Category 3 or higher.

Even though no storms have become hurricanes, September historically heralds the peak season of hurricanes to develop in the Gulf and Atlantic. NOAA advisors predict that October will be a time to be extra vigilant when working offshore as the bulk of the tropical activity is expected to occur that month.

If you're a maritime offshore worker who has been injured on the job, speak with your maritime law attorney to discuss options for filing a claim.

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries due to improper safety protocols during a tropical cyclone that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

Maritime Law May Not Apply to Platform Worker Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63115 — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

An offshore injury claim becomes more complicated when the accident takes place on an offshore platform. While you are technically offshore, you are on a fixed platform, which in some cases will result in state laws trumping the maritime law.

Generally a platform is governed by the land laws of the state in which it is located. This determination is often a difficult one to make and relies on registration and licensing of the platform.

Once these things are determined, then there becomes the argument of whether you are considered an offshore worker protected under maritime law or Jones Act Law. Alternately, you may have to file a claim within state land laws.

A maritime law attorney should have several past cases they can use to determine the best course of action to take in your claim. There are many ways to deal with a platform accident injury, and knowing all the potential methods of seeking compensation is important to your future.

Your maritime law attorney in New Orleans will be of great help when determining when maritime law applies to your offshore accident claim. When filing your claim, the insurance companies and your employer will not offer you any guidance, and if you don't know the full extent of the damages you can claim, you may be missing out on a fair settlement.

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

Damages Available in Emotional Distress Lawsuit Under Jones Act

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62616 — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Under the Jones Act shipping laws, you are eligible for damages if you have suffered psychological duress as the result of an accident brought on by an offshore or river vessel employer. If you believe you have sustained traumatic psychological damage after being involved or injured in an accident, you may pursue damages through an emotional distress lawsuit by speaking with a Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer.

Jones Act shipping law provides that you are entitled to compensation for any injury or duress you endured if you can prove that your employer's actions or failure to act was responsible for the incident that caused in the injury.

Emotional distress damages are typically attached to other claim actions, such as if a seaman is injured in an accident and suffers anxiety or depression that affects his work and personal life as a result of the trauma.

However, a seaman may pursue damages for an injury that is purely psychological or emotional in nature, although those damages will not be rewarded for simply witnessing an event.

A Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer who has handled maritime law and Jones Act shipping law cases like yours before is available for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation about your emotional distress lawsuit following a boat accident.

Contact a Lafayette, Louisiana Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

BOEMRE Matters to Your Offshore Oil Rig Explosion Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63116 — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) is a federal agency that regulates the safety and responsibility of energy and mineral resources on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). This agency was the product of a reorganization effort in May 2010 following the Deepwater Horizon disaster.

BOEMRE acts as the safety regulator for oil rigs located on the OCS. It provides safety advisories for new threats to offshore oil rigs that employers need to heed. These advisories include weather-related dangers, defective products, and other hazards that are usually beyond control.

Other safety measures governed by BOEMRE include the design of offshore oil rigs to minimize safety hazards before they become problems. These designs are kept up by periodic safety inspections and updates to rig equipment. The actual personal safety regulations for oil rig workers are also a major part of BOEMRE's regulations.

If your employer is found to have been noncompliant with oil rig safety measures, it can be used as serious evidence in your claim for damages. A Jones Act attorney in New Orleans is familiar with dealing with cases of negligent employers when it comes to providing oil rig worker safety and can help you through the process of filing a claim.

Contact an Attorney for Help with the Jones Act in Louisiana

As an oil rig worker, the Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. The Jones Act Law attorneys from The Young Firm in New Orleans can help you file an injury claim after a Jones Act oil spill resulting from an offshore oil rig explosion.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act claim, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Providing Evidence of Maritime Accident Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)63113 — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Maritime law defines navigable water as water suitable for travel such as the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico. This means that any offshore accident that occurs in waters not considered as navigable water can be denied coverage under maritime law.

If this is an issue in your claim, you will want to get to work with a maritime law attorney in New Orleans as soon as possible. Even if it is determined that your rights under maritime law are negated due to the location of your accident in non-navigable waters, you may have protection under other laws.

Workers' Compensation laws at the very least provide some protection, but you should definitely seek a more specific coverage of your rights under a maritime-based law.

The Jones Act Law protects many categories of maritime workers, and there are also other laws regarding water-based occupations that your attorney can review. No matter what the results, your attorney can work on insuring your rights as an injured worker are upheld under whichever laws apply best to your offshore accident claim.

Defining navigable water can be a difficult matter when your employer and insurance companies are involved. Knowing how and when maritime law applies to your accident case is important when seeking compensation. Make sure your rights are upheld and you obtain a fair settlement by working with a maritime law attorney from New Orleans.

Contact a New Orleans Offshore Accident Maritime Law Attorney

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered maritime offshore accident injuries in a horrible diving accident or other accident that falls under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 866-938-6113.

Filing Emotional Distress Lawsuit Under Jones Act Shipping Law

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62615 — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Jones Act shipping employees who suffer psychological duress or mental anguish, either while working aboard a vessel or as a result of an accident sustained or observed while working on a vessel, are eligible under the act to file an emotional distress lawsuit. A Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer who has handled general maritime and Jones Act cases before can help you with the process.

Jones Act shipping employees who have endured emotional distress are required to prove that they have suffered stress, anxiety, grief, depression, or other psychological symptoms. This must be proven to be a result of a traumatic incident that occurred as the result of an employer's negligence or failure to maintain a safe environment.

When this negligence leads to an accident that causes harm then the injured party, the family of the deceased, or other shipping employees who witnessed the event may file an emotional distress lawsuit for the trauma they have endured.

If you or someone you love has suffered mental anguish as a result of sustaining or witness a serious accident while working for a Jones Act shipping employer, you may be eligible to file an emotional distress lawsuit. Contact a Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer to discuss your options for moving forward with your claim.

Contact a Lafayette, Louisiana Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll-free at 866-938-6113.

What is the Prognosis for a Gulf Coast Offshore Brain Injury?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62747 — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are among the scariest injuries to sustain while working at your Gulf Coast job. The brain is the center of the human body's operations and when it is injured, you want the very best recovery possible. What kind of prognosis can you expect as you continue to heal?

Did a coma result from the injury? Did amnesia occur? Were there other injuries? If so, doctors look at the following factors and more to determine what the recovery might look like:

Length of time the coma lasted. For example, a coma lasting seconds to minutes might mean a recovery time of hours to days, while a coma lasting weeks could mean a much longer recovery, from months to years.
How severe the coma was in the hours immediately after the injury
Length of time amnesia lasted
The size and locations of specific injuries in the brain
The severity of other injuries when the TBI occurred

Even with the most detailed information, it remains very difficult for medical professionals to predict exactly how long recovery will take and how much lasting damage there will be. In general, though, some statements can be made:

The more severe the injury the longer the recovery time.
The type of injury will help to determine time in recovery.
The place in the brain that received damage will predict how long and how complete the recovery may be.
It does not necessarily mean a longer recovery if surgery was necessary.

Whatever your situation, we care about your recovery. And as you move forward with this process, you may have questions and concerns about how and why the accident happened and what your rights are. Call us to get the very latest information about Jones Act law and how it applies to you. The New Orleans attorneys at The Young Firm will provide expert assistance with all your Jones Act questions and claims.

Rehabilitating Louisiana Offshore Crush Injuries

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62746 — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have suffered a crush injury at your Gulf Coast maritime job, getting better is the most important concern. If the injury is not severe, you may be treated and released to go back to work. But be sure you are getting the proper rehabilitation if the injury is more severe.

Once the immediate medical dangers have been dealt with after your accident, and complications are controlled, it is time for the healthcare system to bring you back to the best possible condition. Depending on the severity of your injury, you could be treated by:

Physical therapists
Occupational therapists
Vocational therapists
Psychological professionals

There are several areas of concern when rehabilitation begins:

Muscle atrophy: Sometimes range of motion and/or blood circulation can be affected. Exercise must be carefully regulated to minimize these problems.
Pain management: Often after operations and long recovery periods, pain may become an ongoing issue.
Scar tissue care: Rehabilitation may include massage and desensitization techniques.
Anxiety and depression: As with any injury, the stresses of recovery may cause psychological problems that need to be taken as seriously as the crush injury itself.

Rehabilitation after a crush injury can be a long process. We sincerely hope that you are receiving the all-important aftercare that you deserve, and that you are confident in your employer's concern for your Jones Act rights.

If you have any questions about your Louisiana Jones Act injury, be sure to get a FREE copy of our online books, "Employee's Guide to Maritime Injury Law" and "6 Secrets Your Company May Not Tell You When You Get Injured Offshore." The attorneys at The Young Firm have over 50 years' experience representing people like you.

Common Mistakes Houston Seamen Make after a Boat Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62308 — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you've been injured in a boat accident, maritime law affords you certain rights. After you've filed a boating accident report, you should contact a Houston maritime lawyer who can explain to you what your entitlements are and how you can preserve them throughout the process.

Actions to Avoid After Your Boat Accident in Houston

Hiring an attorney who's unfamiliar with maritime law and Jones Act law -- When it comes to lawyers, one size doesn't fit all. There are different kinds of lawyers with different skill sets. When you speak with a law firm, ask how much of their business comes from maritime law cases.
Failing to report the injury soon enough -- You should report an injury and file a boating accident report as soon as the injury occurs. Though you may be eager to finish out the hitch so that you're fully compensated, working with an injury can make it even worse and can impact your ability to recoup benefits.
Signing papers after your boat accident injury -- If your employer asks you to sign any documents other than your accident report, don't. Speak with a Houston maritime lawyer first.

Contact a Houston Maritime Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Houston maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Reasonable Maintenance and Cure Benefits after a Boat Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62306 — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Under the Jones Act, if you are injured in a boat accident while working aboard a vessel, you qualify for certain benefits known as "maintenance and cure." A Houston maritime law attorney can help you file a boating accident report and determine if you are eligible as a Jones Act seaman.

The purpose of maintenance and cure benefits is to provide injured seamen with a means to provide for themselves on land as the employer would have done on the vessel and to cover the expense of treating and recovering from the injury.

These benefits are different from other types of damages that an injured seaman may be able to receive, and they are treated differently. For instance, the law stipulates that while employers do not have to settle an injury claim immediately, they are obligated to pay for maintenance and cure benefits as soon as the injury or illness manifests.

If you have been injured in a boat accident, contact a Houston maritime lawyer who will enforce your rights to maintenance and cure benefits, as well as other damages you may be entitled to. Filing a boating accident report is only the first step, so don't hesitate to act by reaching out to an attorney who can explain your rights to you.

Contact a Houston Maritime Lawyer

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Houston maritime law attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Could You be Suffering Lasting Health Effects of the Gulf Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62088 — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

While time has passed since the tragic events of the Deepwater Horizon explosion in the Gulf of Mexico, the effects continue to linger. The "Offshore Diver" website tells a disturbing story concerning the health of three science divers.

After being told it was safe, the three divers were working underwater in the Gulf when they began to notice disturbing symptoms. By October of 2010, all three were sick and stopped diving. Collectively, their symptoms included:

Blood in the stool
Bleeding from nose and eyes
Nausea
Diarrhea
Stomach cramps
Dizziness and confusion

These symptoms would come and go one at a time, and the divers began to search for a diagnosis and medical help. Finally, in January of 2011, their blood test results showed the cause for their illness. Corexit and ethyl benzene were found in alarming amounts In the divers' blood.

Corexit is a line of solvents used to clean up oil slicks, used extensively in the Deepwater Horizon incident. Combined with the BP oil itself, the divers claim they were exposed to numerous carcinogenic compounds. While under treatment, the divers fear ongoing health problems caused by diving in the contaminated water. They suggest that anyone suspecting contamination illness, which can be as severe as cancer, to contact the Louisiana Environmental Action Network.

We suggest that you also contact us. If you have become ill after diving and/or working in the waters of the north central Gulf of Mexico since the BP spill, you need your questions answered. We are New Orleans attorneys who specialize in maritime injury and illness. Let us help you explore your options. Just call toll free: (866) 938-6113

What is Being Done to Ensure Safety for Offshore Gulf Coast Rig Workers?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)61875 — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

While offshore drilling and mining provide many jobs for Louisiana seamen and precious natural resources for the country, it is no secret that those employed on offshore Gulf Coast rigs are at risk for injury. The question is: how are these workers protected?

The following types of accidents represent the top four causes of injury and property damage, from most common to least:

Fires
Collisions
Explosions
Loss of Well Control

It is also important to note that long-term exposure to chemicals on rigs can cause lasting health issues in workers.

So, Who is Looking Out for You?
The Mineral Management Service (MMS), a division of the US Department of the Interior, is responsible for overseeing the safety of offshore workers. Here is a partial list of what they do:

Require employers to report all injuries and fatalities;
Study the report results and use them to determine safety concerns, then share these with employers, with the understanding that they will work to improve safety;
Make maintenance of older facilities a safety priority;
Require testing for dangerous chemicals.

Despite these precautions, each year about 50 offshore workers suffer serious injuries and an average of ten lose their lives in offshore accidents.

If you or a loved one has been injured working for an offshore company, we can help. At The Young Firm we pride ourselves on our proven record in fighting for injured maritime workers. Be sure to read our FREE online book, "The Employee's Guide to Maritime Injury Law" and call us toll free at: (866) 938-6113.

Gulf Coast Commercial Divers Deserve the Best in Safety

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)62086 — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

It is well known that commercial diving in the Gulf of Mexico exposes its workers to many dangers. Divers on the job are entitled to the very best in offshore safety when they are hired. Those who choose to enter this job market are at risk for:

Drowning
Respiratory and circulatory problems
Hypothermia

The diver's risk is increased by:

How many dives are involved
Time spent underwater
Visibility problems
Difficulty of the task performed

The US Department of Labor, through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), recognizes and studies these factors to improve safety standards for all commercial divers.

OSHA cites additional risks to divers because of the type of work they do. Cutting, welding, heavy equipment operation and handling power tools are just some of the jobs that create hazards for divers.

Yet, day after day, week after week, and year after year, companies who want to get the job done quickly for the least amount of money do not enforce the carefully designed OSHA standards for diver safety. And we all know that the bottom line should never take precedence over a worker's life.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Gulf Coast diving accident and you suspect that OSHA guidelines were not enforced, you need to contact us at The Young Firm. With over 50 years of experience representing injured Louisiana seamen and Gulf Coast maritime workers just like you, we can answer your questions. We are located in New Orleans, but also serve the entire Gulf Coast region. Call us now toll free at (866) 938-6113.

How are Louisiana Accident Brain Injuries Diagnosed and Treated?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)61872 — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Louisiana Jones Act seamen face danger on the job every day, and traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often the result of accidents on fishing vessels, oilrigs, barges and tugs. When this type of injury is sustained, diagnosis and treatment are paramount in successful recovery.

Neurologists use several tools to diagnose TBI:

Neurological examination: the first step in diagnosis, including a physical examination.
Computed tomography (CT) scan: A quick, accurate scan of the brain.
Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI): shows more detail than a CT scan, and is used in determining long-term outcomes.
X-rays: rarely used, but still considered a tool.
Angiography: sometimes used in a penetrating head injury to see if blood vessels are damaged.
Functional imaging: looks at blood flow in the brain.
Electroencephalography: occasionally used, this records the electrical activity of the brain.
Neuropsychological assessment: a series of cognitive tests to determine how the brain is functioning.

Once the neurologist has completed the tests needed to diagnose the patient, treatment can begin. Treatment is based on the type and severity of injury and can range from observation to surgery.

Medical specialists refer to the "golden hour" following the injury, which can be classified as mild, moderate or severe. Anyone suffering a blow to the head should be checked out and treated, if necessary, within the first hour following the injury to prevent complications and give the most effective treatment.

If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury and you have questions, the Louisiana maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm will put our 50-plus years of maritime law experience to work for you. Don't hesitate to call us.

The Jones Act: Decompression Sickness after a Horrific Diving Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)61521 — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Commercial divers are at risk for decompression sickness, often referred to as the bends. If you've been diagnosed with decompression sickness after a horrific diving accident, you'll be protected under The Jones Act, which allows you to sue your employer or vessel owner. It would be beneficial to have a Jones Act attorney review your case and provide legal guidance.

A Close Look at Decompression Sickness

Decompression sickness is caused by under pressure breathing of gases such as nitrogen, which the body can't metabolize. The nitrogen in a diver's air tank will increase in pressure as the diver ascends. Over time, the nitrogen will build up in the diver's tissues. Therefore, dive tables, such as those crafted by the U.S. Navy, provide guidelines regarding depths and dive times to reduce the risk of decompression sickness.

Symptoms of decompression sickness include the following:

joint pain;
itching;
rashes;
swollen lymph nodes;
head, neck or chest pain;
weakness or numbness;
shortness of breath; and
staggering.

Treatment involves oxygen therapy, IV fluids, hyperbaric chamber therapy and close monitoring. A Jones Act attorney may be able to help you obtain compensation for your medical expenses and pain and suffering. Your best bet is to seek immediate medical treatment after your horrific diving accident, and then contact an attorney.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney

After you or a loved one has been involved in a horrific diving accident, you should discuss your options with a Jones Act attorney. The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Collecting Jones Law Damages by Journaling Your Injuries

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)61383 — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Among the Jones Law damages that you can recover after a serious accident is compensation for pain and suffering. This compensation, which will be determined by a judge or jury, will depend on the nature of your injuries. To boost your chances at obtaining fair compensation for your suffering, you should seek legal guidance from a Lafayette attorney at the Young Firm.

To help your Lafayette attorney present a good picture of your pain and suffering, you should keep a pain journal and update it several times daily. In this journal you should include the following:

your pain level on a scale of 0-10 (10 being unbearable);
pain triggers, such as sitting in one place for too long, lifting heavy objects, or walking;
the names and doses of medication you're taking and the times you take them;
whether your pain has eased with medication;
which body parts experience pain;
the type of pain you're experiencing (throbbing, sharp, dull); and
whether your pain prevents you from performing any activities.

Be honest with yourself, your doctor and your Lafayette attorney about any pain you're experiencing. Keep in mind that your spouse and friends may be called upon to provide testimony about how your pain and suffering has affected your life.

Other damages under the Jones Law you may be entitled to include medical expenses, lost benefits and lost wages.

FREE Legal Consultation with a Lafayette Attorney at The Young Firm

You are entitled to damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost earnings under the Jones Act law. The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney from The Young Firm can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

The Jones Act: 5 Complications of Burn Injuries after a Horrific Diving Accident

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)61520 — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Under The Jones Act, commercial divers are able to sue employers or vessel owners in the event of a horrific diving accident. If you suffered a serious injury or have lost a loved one in a diving accident, you should discuss your legal options with a Jones Act attorney.

5 Complications of Burn Injuries after a Horrific Diving Accident

One injury that could result from a horrific diving accident is a burn injury. A burn injury could be caused by cutting torches, which can ignite unburned oxygen. Any burn covering more than a 3-inch area is a serious burn. These kinds of burns, as well as deep burns, can lead to:

Infection - When skin is burned, your major protective barrier is compromised.
Sepsis - This life-threatening condition results from an infection that rapidly progresses.
Hypovolemia - This happens when a burn injury damages blood vessels and causes your body to lose blood and other bodily fluids.
Hypothermia - This results from loss of body heat from your damaged skin.
Joint difficulties - If scar tissue builds up, your joints will be susceptible to falling out of alignment.

The expenses of treating a severe burn injury are costly. To hold negligent parties accountable for your horrific diving accident, you should consult with a Jones Act attorney.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney

After you or a loved one has been involved in a horrific diving accident, you should discuss your options with a Jones Act attorney. The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Jones Act attorney from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 1-504-680-4100 or toll-free at 1-866-938-6113.

Recovering Medical Expenses Under Jones Law

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)61381 — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Jones Law states that you may able to recover damages after you've suffered injuries as a result of your employer's or vessel owner's negligence. To make the most of your claim for damages, you should bring your case to a Lafayette attorney at The Young Firm.

Your attorney will discuss issues of negligence and explain your legal options. If negligence can be determined, you may be entitled to the following medical expenses:

ambulance fees;
emergency room fees;
hospital stay;
surgery;
doctor visits;
physical therapy;
occupational therapy;
prescription medication;
medical devices; and
over-the-counter medication.

You may also be entitled to compensation for future medical expenses in the event that your condition requires additional surgery or any other procedures. Expert testimony from your treating doctor will be necessary to place a value on your future medical care. With burn injuries, for example, you may need future cosmetic surgery or skin grafting.

To help your Lafayette attorney build a strong case, you should follow all of your doctor's orders and keep track of all of your receipts or unpaid bills. While you focus on your recovery, your attorney can handle the tasks of gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and completing all necessary documents in a timely manner. Learn more about Jones Law Damages.

Get Legal Help Today from a Lafayette Attorney at The Young Firm

You are entitled to damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost earnings under the Jones Act law. The Jones Act law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. An attorney from The Young Firm can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S. Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation - call 504-680-4100 or tollfree at 866-938-6113.

Gulf Coast Offshore Back and Neck Injuries: Is There Compensation?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)60639 — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Louisiana and neighboring states share two things: lots of work for seamen and lots of injuries sustained on the job. Many times these injuries involve the back and neck, leading to spinal cord injuries. This year alone, more than one million workers will incur a back injury on the job and one in five workplace injuries will involve the back, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The question is, will the costs of your back or neck injury be compensated? In short, the answer is yes. Seamen are protected by the Jones Act, which gives you the right to seek compensation from your employer for any preventable injury on the job.

Fortunately, the law is on your side. The Jones Act has been protecting maritime employees for many years. Because of this legal protection, your employer must provide both maintenance and cure for injured seamen. If, for some reason your employer does not honor his obligation, the Jones Act allows you to sue for the money you need for medical expenses and future wages, in addition to compensation for pain and suffering. A good Louisiana Jones Act lawyer can lead you through the ins and outs of filing a claim against your employer to seek payment to which you are already entitled by law.

If you or a loved one has sustained a back injury working on an oil rig, floating crane, cargo ship, tanker, fishing vessel, drill ship, barge, towboat, or tugboat, and you are not receiving the benefits you deserve, contact us at The Young Firm in New Orleans. We have over 50 years experience winning maritime and Jones Act cases for our clients. Simply fill out the form on this page or call TOLL FREE at (866) 938-6113 and let us begin helping you.

When an Injured Louisiana Seaman is Denied Maintenance and Cure Benefits

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)60193 — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

What if you have been injured in a Gulf Coast maritime accident and your employer refuses to pay your maintenance and cure benefits? Is that the end of the line for you? Absolutely not. The tradition of paying maintenance and cure to injured seamen is hundreds of years old. As far back as 1160 A.D., laws existed guaranteeing every seaman the right to maintenance (the payment of living costs) and cure (the payment of any and all medical bills). Since then, the law has continued to support the working seaman's injuries. These laws clearly define the rights of the worker and the obligations of the employer.

Simply put, under general maritime law, your employer must provide you with the amount of money you need to pay for your food, lodging and monthly bills as you recover (maintenance). In addition, you are entitled to medical treatment that is related to your injury (cure).

If your employer refuses to pay you maintenance and cure or does not allow enough compensation to cover your recovery costs, you have the right to pursue these benefits through the courts. By doing so, you may be able to recover not only the money needed for your injuries, but also any lawyer fees you have incurred. And depending on your individual circumstances, you may be eligible for damages as well.

All in all, it is not a good idea to try to fight this battle for your rights alone. The Louisiana maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm will put our 50-plus years of maritime law experience to work for you. Don't hesitate to call us. We have represented clients in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas and Texas, as well as workers injured in the Gulf of Mexico and on the Mississippi River.

Do you owe the tax man since you got maintenance and cure?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)55118 — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Must you pay any taxes on your maintenance payments? What if you are getting maintenance and advances, then what? Do you owe taxes on the advances part of the payments? Learn if you have to pay taxes on maintenance and cure payments by watching our new video and reading our article here.

Do you have to choose the Jones Act or the Longshore Act?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53812 — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Do you want to file your claim under the Jones Act or the Longshore Act? How can you be sure to best protect yourself? Our Louisiana maritime lawyers explain how to file a claim under both.

New Orleans Maritime Lawyer Lists Common Causes of Boat Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)58197 — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

It is summer and more recreational boaters will be hitting the waters of the Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico. Our New Orleans maritime accident attorneys have created this list of the seven most common causes of boating accidents. We hope it helps you avoid accidents and prevent maritime injury.

The 7 Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents

1. Drug and alcohol intoxication
2. Operator inexperience
3. Boat operator distraction
4. Recklessness and excessive speed
5. Poor boat maintenance
6. Bad weather
7. Overloading a boat with too much passegers or too much cargo

To avoid maritime injury, make sure:

There are enough life jackets onboard for every passenger
That your boat is well-maintained and has enough fuel for the trip
That you have let someone know your travel plans and that you have a personal locating device or radio beacon.

We also suggest that all boaters take a boating safety course.

Unfortunately, regardless of how prepared you are, not all boat accidents can be avoided. Injuries on the water are not like injuries on land; they are governed under federal maritime law. If you have sustained a boating injury, contact The Young Firm at 866-938-6113 to discuss your claim with an experienced maritime accident attorney.

Deepwater Horizon Survivors' Fairness Act To Help Families of BP Explosion Victims

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)58035 — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

A bill that will help the surviving family members of the 11 men killed last year in the Deepwater Horizon blowout has been approved by the Senate Commerce Committee. The Deepwater Horizon Survivors' Fairness Act (S.183) will make it possible for families of the deceased to recover damages from BP, Transocean and subcontractors.

The Deepwater Horizon Survivors' Fairness Act amends federal maritime laws including the Jones Act, Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA), and Shipowners' Liability Act of 1851, so the surviving families of Deepwater Horizon victims can claim non-compensatory damages, including pain and suffering and loss of companionship. Those damages are not allowed under the Jones Act or DOHSA. Under normal circumstances, DOHSA limits compensation to funeral expenses and lost wages.

The Shipowners' Liability Act of 1851 limits compensation for a maritime accident to the value of the vessel and its cargo. If passed, the bill will waive this limit and allow injured workers and families of the victims to bring suit without a final judgment in the Transocean limitation of liability action. Transocean filed last May to limit its liability.

If passed, the bill will affect only individual victims of the Deepwater Horizon explosion. Last year a similar bill stalled in the Senate.

The maritime injury attorneys at The Young Firm support this bill and are committed to helping the families affected by the Deepwater Horizon to obtain justice for their losses.

Worried about losing your health insurance benefits after a maritime injury?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53442 — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Can your Jones Act company stop your benefits including health insurance after you file a Jones Act claim? Willl you lose your health insurance if you file a Jones Act claim or suit? Learn if your company can terminate your health insurance and other benefits if you file a Jones Act case.

Jones Act covers injuries on fixed platforms and even land?? Perhaps...

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53441 — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many times seamen are injured while they work on a fixed platform or even land. These injuries can still be covered under the Jones Act under certain circumstances. Learn more about fixed platform and land injuries covered under the Jones Act here.

Will you owe taxes on your Jones Act settlement?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53381 — Thu, 26 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Is a settlement under the Jones Act taxable? Do you have to pay taxes on your injury settlement under maritime law? No one wants to pay taxes if they don't have to. Learn if your Jones Act settlement money is taxable by reading our new post.

The Top Fifteen Causes of Shipyard Crane Accidents: Who Is Responsible For Your Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)55553 — Mon, 23 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Why Do Shipyard Crane Accidents Occur?

Shipyard workers are considered to have very dangerous jobs. One of the biggest dangers in Louisiana shipyards is the risk of crane accidents. Crane accidents in shipyards occur for several reasons:

1. Dropped loads or falling objects
2. Falls from the crane or rigging
3. Being crushed between equipment or objects
4. Accidents when transporting the crane
5. Contact with electricity
6. Rigging failures
7. Crane is overloaded
8. The load is unbalanced
9. The crane operator is distracted
10. Equipment defects and malfunctions
11. Inadequate equipment maintenance
12. Poorly designed equipment
13. Overturned cranes
14. Improper assembly or dismantling of a crane
15. Lack of safety procedures at a jobsite

Who Is Responsible For A Louisiana Crane Accident Injury?

Liability for a shipyard crane accident may belong to several parties. Responsibility depends on the cause of the accident. However, almost all shipyard crane accidents can be prevented with proper training and proper safety procedures. If you have been injured or lost a loved one to a shipyard crane accident, a maritime injury attorney can help determine who is responsible for the injury and can help you get compensation under the Longshoreman and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA).

To discuss your accident with a maritime injury attorney in Louisiana, contact The Young Firm at 866-938-6113.

Caution Longshoremen. Don't settle that third party claim yet!

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53388 — Fri, 20 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If a third party is responsible for your injury and you settle that claim, you may be giving up ALL your rights under the Longshore Act. Read this important article about third pary settlements under the Longshore Act before you settle any claim involving your maritime injury.

Shipyard Workers Are At Risk Of Serious Injury: Know Your Rights!

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)55172 — Mon, 16 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

A shipyard is a place where ships are built, cleaned, repaired and dismantled. Shipyards are among the most dangerous places to work. The rate of injury among shipyard workers is more than twice that of general construction workers. Why is working in a shipyard so dangerous?

The work is physically demanding
The work includes dangerous tools, heat, toxic substances
Work is done at variable heights
Some work is done next to or over water
Work involves cranes and heavy equipment

Common shipyard accidents include:

Welding and pipefitting accidents
Slips and falls
Ladder or scaffolding accidents
Accidents caused by falling objects
Equipment malfunctions
Power tool accidents
Asbestos exposure
Toxic chemical exposure
Electrocution accidents

Shipyard accidents can cause serious injuries, including:

Musculoskeletal injuries
Head injuries
Back injuries
Nerve injuries
Amputations
Hazardous material exposure
Burns
Electrocutions

If you have been injured in a shipyard accident, it is important that you understand your legal rights. If your maritime injury was caused by the negligence of others, you may be entitled to compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The LHWCA provides Workers' Compensation style benefits to those who work adjacent to navigable waters.

To learn if you are eligible for compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, living expenses and more, contact the New Orleans maritime injury attorneys at The Young Firm. Our maritime accident lawyers can explain how much compensation you and your family may be entitled to.

How many jurors will your Jones Act trial have?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53386 — Thu, 12 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

What number of jurors decide your Jones Act maritime case? How many jurors decide your judgment in a Jones Act or maritime case, and does it matter where the case is filed? Learn the answer from our Louisiana maritime lawyers here.

Deepwater Horizon Disaster: One Year Later

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)54030 — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

It has been a year since eleven seamen were killed in the Deepwater Horizon disaster. Many families are still waiting for compensation for the loss of their loved ones or for injuries sustained when the offshore oil platform exploded.

Survivors of the tragedy may have recovered from most of their injuries, but they still deal with depression, anxiety, nightmares and post-traumatic stress disorder. For many, the pain and guilt of surviving when their co-workers did not, is overwhelming. These issues affect the ability to function through daily life, to earn a living and to maintain relationships. In fact, they affect whole families.

Many others suffered indirectly because of the explosion. Gulf residents who depend on the water to earn a living could not return to work. Fishermen could not fish; tour boats were grounded. Restaurants and hotels that were dependent on tourists lost money. BP set up an account known as the Deepwater Horizon Disaster Victim Fund to cover up to $20 billion in claims, but most of that has not been paid.

As the investigation of the BP-Transocean oil rig explosion has progressed, serious violations have come to light. We can only hope that this tragedy results in stronger safety regulations and better protection for workers.

The maritime injury attorneys at The Young Firm have not forgotten the victims of April 20, 2010. We will continue fighting to help victims get the compensation they deserve for the events of that day.

What does an impairment rating mean in your Jones Act case?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53384 — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many times a doctor will assign an impairment rating to you after he treats your injury. But does this impairment rating effect the amount of your Jones Act settlement? Will you get more or less money depending on your impairment rating? Learn from our new articve here.

No accident report? It doesn't mean you can't file suit.

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53383 — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many times a company will discourage or even refuse to allow an injured employee to complete an accident report. But does that mean you can not file suit and collect damages? Can you still win your Jones Act maritime case if you never filled out an accident report? Our maritime lawyers explain the answer here.

Preventing Offshore Hand Injuries

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)53305 — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Whether you work as a deckhand on a Mississippi River barge or as a crewmember on an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico, your job requires the use of your hands. A hand injury is both painful and inconvenient, but hand injuries are among the most common on-the-job injuries suffered by seamen. However, many hand injuries can be avoided if safety precautions are taken. Here are some steps you can take to prevent hand injuries while on-the-job.

Use extra caution when working near machinery, moving structures, and parts.
Do not use tools or machinery that you have not been trained to use.
Use care when lifting cargo or other heavy items.
Be aware that metal drums, pipes, lines, winches, forklifts, and crates can cause hand injury. When working, watch for pinch points.
If appropriate, wear protective gloves.
If your job requires repetitive motions, take breaks to give your hands a rest.
Use caution when working with electricity, steam or hot objects.

Learn more about hand injuries in our article: "Offshore Hand Injuries: A Louisiana Jones Act Lawyer Discusses Your Rights"

If you or someone you care about has suffered from a hand injury while working offshore, the maritime injury attorneys at The Young Firm would like to help you get fair compensation. Contact The Young Firm at 866-938-6113 and ask to schedule a free consultation to discuss your claim.

Injured Seamen: You Have a Right to Maintenance and Cure For Your Knee Injury

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)50755 — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Are you a seaman who is suffering from a knee injury?

Whether you slipped on the deck of a fishing boat, tripped over lines on a barge, or fell off the ladder of an oil rig, you know that a knee is serious a serious wound. You may be in significant pain and your ability to work or even walk may be impaired.

With treatment, your injury could take weeks or even months to heal. How will you pay your bills while you are waiting to go back to work?

Seamen who are recovering from a knee injury are entitled to receive maintenance and cure payments from their employer.

Maintenance covers a portion of the seaman's living expenses until the injury has healed and he is able to return to work. Cure covers the seaman's medical costs until the injury has healed as much as is medically expected. These benefits are your right as a maritime worker and are guaranteed under federal maritime law.

If your injury was caused by the negligence of your employer or the vessel owner, you may be entitled to additional compensation under the Jones Act. Learn more in our article, "Your Offshore Knee Injury May Be Covered Under the Jones Act."

For more information about maintenance and cure or the Jones Act, contact the maritime attorneys at The Young Firm, 866-938-5596.

Seamen are Vulnerable to Knee Overuse Injuries

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)50757 — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a seaman, lifting and carrying heavy loads is part of your job description. You may not think much about it; you can handle hard work. But, over time, the heavy lifting may be causing serious knee injuries.

Knee overuse injuries are characterized by pain felt around the front or sides of the knee joint. The knee slowly begins to hurt, and the pain cannot be traced specific injury such as a slip or fall.

There are several types of overuse knee injuries:

Patellofemoral joint pain: Pain in the front of the knee that is accompanied by grinding or clicking.
Patellar tendinitis: Patellar tendinitis is also known as jumper's knee. It can be caused by periods of heavy physical activity, being overweight, tight leg muscles and/or the uneven strain put on the knees while trying to keep balance at sea. Symptoms include pain after physical activity that becomes a constant ache.
Quadriceps tendinitis: Quadriceps tendinitis is very common and is caused by excess strain on the knees and legs. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, localized tenderness and a warmth or burning sensation.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled cavities in the knee. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness and swelling.

Seamen who suffer knee injuries may be entitled to compensation under Jones Act Law. Learn more in our article, "Your Offshore Knee Injury May Be Covered Under the Jones Act."

To discuss your own injury or for information about your Jones Act rights, contact the maritime attorneys at The Young Firm, 866-938-5596.

Preventing Offshore Crane Accidents

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)49368 — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Cranes are vital to the operation of offshore oil rigs. Everything that is brought on to the oil rig: personnel, food, drilling fluid, pipes, casing and other supplies, must be lifted on to the rig by a crane.

Cranes are large structures that can weigh more than 100 tons. A crane accident can cause injury and death to the personnel operating the crane, any workers in the crane and anyone in the area.

In order to reduce offshore crane accidents, companies operating cranes must keep them well-maintained.

Crane Operator Responsibilities:

• Have an effective preventive maintenance program
• Conduct appropriate and complete crane inspections
• Ensure cranes are adequate to lift loads
• Emphasize the importance of communication, work planning, and supervisory controls when moving or disassembling cranes
• Ensure loads are properly rigged and secured
• Ensure crane operators and riggers are properly trained

If you are an oil rig worker or seaman who has been injured in an offshore crane accident, you have rights under maritime law. The Louisiana maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm can help you get all the compensation that you are entitled to. To learn more, contact The Young Firm at 866-938-6113.

Learn more about offshore crane accidents in our article, “If You've Been Injured in an Offshore Crane Accident, You Need a Maritime Injury Lawyer Who Understands Crane Regulations.”

Crane Accident Damages Dock; No Injuries

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)49370 — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Fortunately, no one was injured when one of two towering container cranes delivered to APM Terminals in Portsmouth, Virginia was clipped by another crane aboard a ship leaving the dock.

The accident occurred about 11:15 a.m. on February 14 when one of two large cranes aboard the Zhen Hua 24 clipped the boom a crane that was delivered by the ship on February 8. The crane was twisted and extensively damaged. The wharf also sustained minor damage, but no seamen or dockworkers were hurt.

The collision buckled one of the four sets of rail wheels on which the crane sits, so efforts focused on stabilizing the crane and evacuating ships and personnel from the area.The cranes are 259 feet tall and have a a boom length of 489 feet from front to back. Each weighs 1,650 tons. A crane accident could cause severe injury and death.

The crane is expected to be repaired.

Crane accident injuries are such a danger that the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement held a conference in 2008 regarding crane operations and safety in order to prevent injury and death to seamen. You can learn more about crane safety in our article “Offshore Cranes Can Cause Serious Injuries.”

If you have been injured in an offshore crane accident, you have rights. Contact the New Orleans maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm for more information, 866-938-6113.

Need an Alabama Jones Act Lawyer?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)44083 — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that our office has helped dozens and dozens of injured offshore workers from Alabama over the last 40 years. If you need an Alabama Jones Act lawyer or Alabama maritime attorney, read more about how our office can help you. We have served as Alabama Jones Act lawyers for many of our clients and we may be able to help you too.

New Study: Offshore Injuries Common on Small Vessels

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)46791 — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

According to new study, which was recently published in the journal Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, offshore injuries are not uncommon on dinghies and keel boats.

The study was conducted by Rhode Island Hospital researchers. The researchers conducted an on-line survey of 1,860 sailors.

The 1,860 sailors reported a total of 1,715 injuries. Seventy-nine percent of the respondents said that they had experienced at least one injury in the twelve months prior to the survey. The most common injuries were bruises, cuts and sprains.

Most common serious injuries:

• Fractures
• Torn tendons or cartilage
• concussions
• dislocations

Most commonly sailors were injured by:

• Trips and falls
• Being hit by a boom
• Getting caught in lines

Tacking and jibing maneuvers were responsible for about one-third of the reported injuries. Sailors were most likely to be injured while:

• Crossing from one side of the boat to the other during a tack
• Changing the sails
• Operating a winch
• Steering

Heavy weather was a contributing factor in 36 percent of the severe injuries. Seven percent of the accidents were preceded by drinking alcohol.

Most injuries were minor. Only 4 percent of the reported injuries required the injured sailor to be evacuated from the vessel and/or hospitalized. In most cases, the sailors received first aid onboard (26%) or sought medical care at a later time (33%).

Only 30 percent of the sailors surveyed said they regularly wear a life jacket.

Those who are injured offshore have rights under maritime law. To learn more or to schedule a case evaluation, contact the New Orleans maritime attorneys at The Young Firm, 888-938-6113.

Work on the Mississippi River? You May Be a Seaman Under Jones Act Law

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)46793 — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

A Jones Act seaman is anyone whose job is maritime in nature and who performs those duties on navigable waters. If you are a crew member on one of the thousands of vessels that travel on the Mississippi River, you may be a seaman under the Jones Act.

Jones Act vessels include:

• restaurant boats
• tankers
• freighters
• jack-up rigs
• cargo vessels
• semi-submersible
• tow boats
• tug boats
• supply boats
• lay barges
• barges
• fishing vessels
• tour boats
• cruise boats
• charter vessels
• casino boats
• crew support boats
• supply boats
• flats

If you have been injured while working on the Mississippi River, your rights are protected by federal maritime law. You may be entitled to Jones Act benefits, including maintenance and cure. Contact the New Orleans maritime attorneys at The Young Firm to discuss your claim, 866-938-6113. The initial consultation is free and there is no fee unless we win your case.

Mississippi maritime and Jones Act Injury lawyers

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)43795 — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Need a maritime lawyer to handle a Mississippi maritime or Jones Act injury claim? Learn how the maritime Jones Act lawyers at our office can help with your Mississippi maritime injury claim.

How long do you have to file a maritime hearing loss claim?

tjy@theyoungfirm.com (Blog Author)43792 — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have suffered hearing loss while working offshore or on a vessel, you only have a certain period of time to file your claim. Learn how soon you must file your maritime Jones Act law hearing loss claim by reading our new article and watching our videos.