Legal Advocacy for Maritime and Harbor Workers Injured at the Port of New Orleans
The Port of New Orleans is a vital economic hub in the Gulf Coast region, with thousands of maritime and harbor workers supporting its operations every day. These roles come with serious risks, from handling heavy machinery and hazardous substances to operating in unpredictable marine environments. When injuries happen on the docks, ships, or navigable waters, the legal path to compensation can be complicated. At Rozas Injury Law, LLC, our New Orleans port injury lawyer team helps maritime workers and harbor employees pursue justice under state, federal, and maritime law.
We provide experienced legal support for injured workers covered by laws like the Harbor Workers Compensation Act, the Jones Act, and general maritime law. If you or a loved one has been hurt during maritime work, we’re here to help you file a proper claim, recover compensation, and protect your future.
Maritime Workers Face Unique Legal Challenges
Unlike traditional personal injury claims, maritime accidents fall under a different legal framework. Depending on your job duties and location of the incident, your case may be governed by one or more of the following:
- The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act: Provides benefits to harbor workers, dock workers, and maritime workers injured on or near navigable waters.
- The Jones Act: Applies to injured maritime workers classified as “seamen” who spend significant time working aboard vessels.
- General maritime law: Covers injuries not addressed by other statutes, including offshore accidents and certain third-party claims.
Our firm understands the legal intricacies that apply to each type of claim. Whether your accident occurred while repairing a vessel, loading cargo, or working in shipyard operations, we can guide you through the legal process from start to finish.
Common Maritime and Port-Related Injuries
Maritime activities involve physical labor, harsh conditions, and dangerous equipment. As a result, workers may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injury, back injuries, and spinal trauma
- Crush injuries from heavy machinery or falling objects
- Hearing loss or chemical exposure due to hazardous substances
- Burns, lacerations, or limb loss from mechanical failure
- Broken bones from fall accidents on slippery surfaces
- Emotional distress and long-term psychological harm
Whether your injuries happened on a vessel, oil platform, or pier, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, future medical expenses, and other losses.
Compensation Available for Injured Maritime Workers
Injured workers may be entitled to compensation under various workers compensation programs or through a maritime injury lawsuit. Our firm helps clients pursue:
- Payment for current and future medical care and medical supplies
- Reimbursement for lost wages, future lost wages, and living expenses
- Access to vocational rehabilitation services if returning to the same work is not possible
- Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death benefits for family members of maritime workers who lost their lives on the job
Each case is different. Our team assesses every detail—such as your average weekly wage, job status, and available benefits—to maximize your financial support.
Filing a Claim Under the Harbor Workers Compensation Act or Jones Act
Harbor workers and maritime workers must adhere to strict deadlines when filing claims under federal maritime compensation programs. Missing these deadlines or failing to submit a written claim can jeopardize your right to recovery.
We help clients by:
- Determining which statute applies to your job and injury
- Filing accurate, timely claims with your employer or the appropriate federal agency
- Collecting and preserving evidence such as medical records, work logs, and safety violations
- Proving negligence when required under the Jones Act or other statutes
- Dealing with the insurance company on your behalf to avoid delays or denial
If a maritime employer failed to provide a safe work environment or maintain equipment, they may be held responsible for injuries and forced to provide just compensation.
Why Choose Rozas Injury Law, LLC
As a seasoned law firm based in New Orleans, Rozas Injury Law, LLC has a proven track record of representing injured maritime workers and their families. Our attorneys are familiar with local docks, shipping operations, and the complexities of maritime claims in navigable waters.
Clients trust us because we offer:
- Free consultation to evaluate your legal options
- A legal team that understands the maritime industry and its legal frameworks
- Contingency fee representation—you don’t pay unless we recover for you
- Personalized, one-on-one legal advice from experienced maritime lawyers
- Strong courtroom advocacy and skilled negotiation with large companies and insurers
We represent injured workers from every corner of the port, from commercial seamen to longshore and harbor workers supporting vessel operations.
Taking the First Step in the Legal Process
Filing a maritime injury claim can be overwhelming. Between confusing regulations, multiple responsible parties, and aggressive insurance companies, many injured workers feel defeated before they begin. That’s where we come in.
We help clients:
- Navigate the entire process from incident to compensation
- Identify the responsible parties, even in complex liability cases
- Prove negligence when employers or third parties cause avoidable harm
- Pursue full financial recovery through negotiated settlements or litigation
Let our firm take the lead while you focus on healing and returning to work—or rebuilding your life after a career-ending injury.
Learn more about New Orleans Port Injury Lawyer services. Call Rozas Injury Law, LLC at 225-343-0010 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and peace of mind.
FAQ: Port Injury Lawyer – New Orleans
Who is covered under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act?
This law applies to maritime workers who work on or near navigable waters, including harbor workers, shipbuilders, longshoremen, and dock workers not classified as “seamen.”
What is the difference between the Jones Act and Harbor Workers Compensation Act?
The Jones Act covers seamen and requires proof of employer negligence. The Harbor Workers Compensation Act offers benefits without requiring negligence, but it covers a different class of maritime employees.
What should I do after a maritime accident in New Orleans?
Report the incident immediately, seek medical treatment, file an incident report if required, and consult with a maritime lawyer to begin protecting your rights.
What if the accident was partly my fault?
You may still recover compensation under maritime law, particularly under the Jones Act, which allows for recovery even if you were partially at fault.
How long do I have to file a port injury claim?
Deadlines vary based on which law applies, but many maritime claims must be filed within one year. Speak with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.
