A maritime injury can affect your health, ability to work, and financial stability. If you were injured while working on or around navigable waters, a Tallahassee, FL maritime lawyer can help review the circumstances and identify what information may matter.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly
Get medical care after an accident, even when an injury initially seems manageable. Keep records of examinations, diagnostic tests, prescriptions, treatment plans, and therapy. Medical documentation can help connect your condition with the workplace incident.
Report the Workplace Injury
Notify your employer or supervisor about the accident as soon as practical. Depending on your employment and the circumstances, federal maritime laws may apply instead of, or alongside, ordinary Florida workers’ compensation rules. The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act covers certain maritime employees injured on navigable waters or qualifying adjoining areas.
Preserve Important Evidence
Write down what happened while the details are fresh. Take photographs of the vessel, work area, equipment, and visible injuries. Keep witness contact information. Preserve incident reports, safety instructions, maintenance records, wage information, medical bills, and communications with your employer.
Understand Which Law May Apply
Maritime claims do not all follow the same process. A worker who qualifies as a seaman may have rights under federal law, including the Jones Act. Florida workers’ compensation law also has specific rules, and Florida statutes expressly exclude employees covered by federal maritime compensation laws from Chapter 440 benefits. Determining the correct legal framework can depend on your duties and connection to a vessel.
Keep Track of Your Losses
Record medical expenses, missed work, reduced earnings, and other accident-related expenses. A serious injury may also affect your ability to perform regular job duties. Keeping organized financial and employment records can provide a clearer picture of the injury’s practical effects. They may also help document changes in your ability to work, earn income, and manage ordinary responsibilities after the accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a maritime injury?
Does Florida workers’ compensation cover every maritime worker?
What is the Jones Act?
Can I file a claim for an injury caused by unsafe equipment?
How long do I have to act?
Review Your Maritime Injury
A Tallahassee, FL maritime lawyer can review accident reports, medical records, employment information, witness statements, equipment records, and financial losses. Jacobson Injury Firm can examine the circumstances and legal issues that may affect a potential claim.
Keep Your Records Organized
Keep medical bills, treatment records, wage documents, photographs, accident reports, correspondence, and other evidence together. Avoid altering, discarding, or losing documents or equipment.
Discuss Your Maritime Injury
A Tallahassee, FL maritime lawyer can review the accident, your work duties, the location of the injury, and the losses that followed. Jacobson Injury Firm can help identify the information and legal issues relevant to your situation. Early review can also help clarify which records and deadlines may be important.
