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Salvage work on the Mississippi River and along the Gulf is fast, loud, and risky. If you were hurt during a ship salvage operation, you are not alone, and you do have rights. At Shlosman Law Firm, we help injured maritime workers and families hold companies and insurers accountable so bills get paid and lives move forward. Our team takes on tough cases and fights for fair results that reflect what you lost on and off the job.
Legal Aspects of Ship Salvage Accidents in Louisiana
Louisiana’s ports see frequent salvage, from refloating grounded vessels to clearing wrecks after storms. These jobs fall under maritime law, a federal body of rules that covers seagoing work, injuries, and vessel safety. Which law applies depends on your role and where the accident happened.
The Jones Act protects seamen who spend at least 30 percent of their work time on a vessel in navigation. If an employer or coworker was careless and you got hurt, you can bring a claim for full damages. Workers who do not meet seaman status often fall under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, which provides wage and medical benefits for many ship repair and salvage roles.
General maritime law also applies. It includes claims for unseaworthiness when a vessel, its gear, or crew is not reasonably fit for its job. Time limits are strict. The Jones Act and most general maritime claims use a three‑year filing window, while LHWCA claims have shorter notice and filing rules, often 30 days to notify your employer and one year to file a claim.
Picking the right path can change your case value. Quick action helps protect evidence and your filing rights under Louisiana and federal rules.
How Shlosman Law Firm Supports Clients After Ship Salvage Accidents
Every salvage accident is different, but the steps to protect your claim are clear. We dig into the facts, line up records and witnesses, and press the companies that caused your harm to pay what is owed.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
We start by reviewing where and how the accident happened, the job you were doing, and your employment status. Our team studies medical records, incident logs, and any USCG or OSHA materials to build a strong base. We explain your rights in plain language, so you can make choices that fit your recovery.
Diligent Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Getting the right proof early can make or break a maritime claim. Our investigation often includes the items below.
- Vessel logs, maintenance records, safety manuals, and training files are tied to the operation.
- Interviews with crew, supervisors, and third parties on scene, plus photos and video if available.
- Input from maritime accident reconstruction professionals to explain how the incident unfolded.
- A review of all potential payers, including employers, vessel owners, and their insurers.
We keep you in the loop while we gather proof and lock down witness accounts.
Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation
We push for a fair settlement backed by evidence and the law that fits your status, seaman or longshore. If the other side refuses to be fair, we prepare for court and present your story clearly to a judge or jury. Our goal is full, lawful compensation for what you lost and what you will need.
Client-Focused Support
You will always know where your case stands. We coordinate with your doctors and, when needed, financial planners to map out long‑term care and wage issues. Our team handles the heavy lifting, so you can focus on getting better.
Common Injuries in Ship Salvage Accidents
Salvage work mixes heavy gear, tight timelines, and rough water. Injuries can be life-changing and often require long-term rehab.
- Traumatic brain injuries from falls or falling objects.
- Crush injuries from heavy equipment or collapsing structures.
- Burns from explosions or fires during cutting or refloating work.
- Spinal cord injuries that lead to partial or total paralysis.
- Drowning or near‑drowning events during recovery or tow operations.
- Exposure to hazardous materials, fuel, and toxic substances.
We work to document every diagnosis, treatment plan, and work restriction, then tie each to your claim under the right law.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ship Salvage Accident Claims
Below are short answers to common questions we hear from salvage workers and families after a serious incident.
What compensation can I recover after a ship salvage accident?
Depending on the law that applies, you can recover medical bills, past and future wage loss, rehab costs, and compensation for pain and suffering. Under the LHWCA, wage and medical benefits are available even without proving employer fault. In rare cases with reckless conduct, courts can consider punitive damages under maritime law.
How long do I have to file a ship salvage accident claim?
The Jones Act and many general maritime claims use a three‑year window. LHWCA claims involve shorter notice and filing rules that can close fast. Deadlines can be tricky, so reach out right away to protect your rights.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Maritime cases often apply comparative fault. Your compensation can be reduced by your share of fault, but you can still recover the rest. Do not assume you are out of options until your case is reviewed.
What is ‘unseaworthiness,’ and how does it relate to my claim?
Unseaworthiness means the vessel, its crew, or its gear was not reasonably fit for the job. If that condition caused your injury, you can bring a claim against the vessel owner under general maritime law. This is separate from negligence and does not require proving carelessness.
Contact Shlosman Law Firm for a Free Consultation
If a salvage operation injured you or someone you love, let us step in and push for the recovery you need. Feel free to contact us anytime at 504-826-9427, email info@shlosmanlaw.com, or use our Contact Us page to start a free consultation. We welcome your questions and will move fast to protect your claim, your income, and your future.
