Brewster Law Firm LLC

Your Recovery Is Our Top Priority

When a loved one dies in a maritime accident

On Behalf of | May 18, 2020 | Longshore And Harbor Workers' Compensation Act |

If your loved one recently passed away in a job-related accident on navigable waters in the US, our law office understands the immense amount of emotional pain that you and your entire family are likely facing. Sometimes, simply getting out of bed in the morning seems impossible for those who lose someone they love, let alone finding the energy to pursue benefits that are available as a result of the accident.

However, it is critical for families who are facing financial pressure and other difficulties in the wake of a deadly marine accident to pursue all of the benefits that are available. For many, the Longshore Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act is a lifeline.

Determining eligibility

For starters, it is imperative to determine whether your family is eligible to receive benefits under this law. Those who work in a number of areas are covered by the LHWCA, such as those whose jobs are centered around ship repair, shipbuilding and oil rigs. However, some workers are not covered by this act, such as those who intentionally harmed themselves and those covered by workers’ compensation at the state level. If you are eligible to receive death benefits through workers’ compensation, this is another resource to explore.

Filing a claim

If you believe that you are eligible to receive benefits through the Longshore Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, it is imperative to approach the process of filing a claim carefully. Sometimes, claims are rejected because applicants failed to file the paperwork properly or did not spend enough time reviewing eligibility requirements. Our website explores this issue in more detail.