Seamen's Claims Handled by Top Rated Virginia Trial Attorneys

Hampton Roads with its coastal location and many ports has heavy traffic on the local waterways with numerous cargo ships, cruise ships, private charters, and sightseeing cruises. This results in many waterway accidents, which give rise to a seamen's claim.

Waterway accidents routinely occur while out at sea or at the shipyard. Accidents that occur at a shipyard are governed by Virginia law. However, accidents that occur on vessels out at sea are covered by Maritime law. Maritime law is a specialized area of law that is extremely complex and intricate. The experienced lawyers at The Stellute Law Firm have over 50 years of combined experience with handling accident claims and are prepared to help you fight for compensation in court. The Stellute Law Firm does not charge clients unless we help you obtain compensation, and our team of skilled trial attorneys are available 24/7 by phone.

If you would like to speak with one of our personal injury lawyers about your seamen's claim, call (757) 722-2815 today to schedule a free appointment.

Shipyard Accidents
Due to its proximity to the water, Hampton Roads houses multiple shipyards and harbors. Shipyard accidents include:

When you are on-the-job and are injured, your employer is responsible for compensating you for your injuries. Employers have a legal duty of care towards their employees to provide safe working conditions with proper safety equipment, free from dangerous defects. When employers are negligent in the upkeep of the shipyard or supervision of the employees, the employer can be liable under personal injury law.

You can seek compensation for your injuries from your employer. Employers are required to have worker's compensation available for shipyard accidents. However, often times, this form of insurance payout does not cover all of your expenses. You can also seek compensation through a civil claim. Under Virginia law, you are permitted to recover damages for: (1) medical expenses, (2) lost wages, and (3) emotional distress.

Boat Accidents
When an accident occurs when you are on the vessel, the accident is governed by U.S. maritime law under a statute known as The Jones Act. The Jones Act, also referred to as the Merchant Marine Act, is a federal law that requires employers to provide medical care, shelter, and food to seamen who have been injured on the ship or have fallen ill.

Maritime law provides for further compensation than the Virginia law. In addition to past and future medical expenses, past and future lost wages, and pain and suffering, employers must also compensate seamen for contract benefits, food and accommodations, and transportation.

To qualify under The Jones Act as a "seaman," the victim must either assist with navigating the ship or otherwise work in a function that aids the mission of the ship. In addition, the victim must spend a large amount of time actually on the ship.

Common seamen's claims include:

Virginia Seamen Lawyers with Experience with the Jones Act
The Stellute Law Firm has over 50 years of combined experience representing the victims of heinous personal injury accidents, many of which have resulted from shipyard and boating accidents. If you were involved in an accident in a shipyard or on a vessel of any kind, including cruise ship, you have the right to compensation for your injuries.

Contact the seamen lawyers at The Stellute Law Firm today at (757) 722-2815 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your seamen's claims.