LHWCA-Filling the Gap

Posted by: rzehl
June 24, 2008
Topic: Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA)

The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides benefits to injured, or ill, maritime workers in cases where the Jones Act or state workers' compensation programs do not apply. The Jones Act only covers 'seamen', while state workers' compensation programs do not cover workers injured while working on navigable waters. The LHWCA was designed to bridge this gap by covering maritime workers who failed to meet Jones Act requirements and who were injured on navigable waters or adjoining areas like a dock, terminal or pier.

The LHWCA provides benefits similar to those provided under workers' compensation. These include medical and disability payments, wrongful death benefits, rehabilitation programs and medical benefits covering any occupational disease resulting from maritime employment. Additionally, the LHWCA does not require any finding of fault on the part of the employer in causing the injury in order to recover.

If you or someone you know was injured offshore, contact the experienced LHWCA lawyers at Fitts Zehl, LLP by email at info@gulfcoastmaritimelawyer.com or by phone at (800) 993-4887.

Web Resources

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