Barges can be dangerous workplaces. There is usually a lot going on, and, from rough seas to coworker negligence, there are numerous issues that can put barge workers at risk for serious on-the-job injuries. While the good news is that injured barge workers will typically be entitled to compensation under the Jones Act, the bad news is that securing this compensation can be very difficult.
Types of Barge Accident Claims
Individuals who work on all types of barges have the same fundamental rights under the Jones Act when they get injured on the job. While lay barges and spud barges tend to be particularly dangerous, an accident on any type of barge can lead to severe injuries, expensive medical bills, and time missed from work.
- Lay Barge Accidents – Common accidents on pipe lay barges (PLBs), derrick lay barges (DLBs) and cable lay barges (CLBs) include equipment and machinery accidents, welding accidents, crushing accidents, collisions with shifting and moving objects, and falls.
- Spud Barge Accidents – Common accidents on spud barges and jack-up barges include crane accidents, construction, and demolition accidents, pile driving accidents, and mooring accidents.
- Other Barge Accidents – Common accidents on crane barges, dock barges, deck barges, shale barges, hopper barges and other types of barges include equipment and machinery accidents, falls, collisions, and accidents caused by inadequate safety precautions or coworker negligence.
What To Do if You Think You Have a Barge Accident Claim
If you have been injured on a lay barge, spud barge, or any other type of barge, there are some important steps you need to take to protect your legal rights. If you think you may have a barge accident claim, you should:
1. See a Doctor
Under the Jones Act, you are entitled to see a doctor of your own choosing. You should not let your employer tell you where to go for treatment. See your regular doctor if you can get in quickly, but go to the hospital if necessary. Be careful to accurately describe all of your symptoms so your doctor can provide a complete and accurate diagnosis.
2. Learn More about Your Rights
The Jones Act entitles injured barge workers to “no-fault” benefits in most cases. This means that you do not need to prove fault to obtain benefits. But, if you can prove fault, you may be able to recover additional compensation. Therefore, it is important to learn about your rights, and our Jones Act Information Center is a good place to start.
3. Talk to a Lawyer
You should talk to a lawyer about your barge accident claim as soon as possible. You will need help to collect the compensation you deserve, and an experienced lawyer will be able to seek maximum compensation on your behalf.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Barge Accident Claim for Free
Were you injured in a barge accident? If so, we can help. To get started with a free and confidential consultation, call 800-468-4878 or tell us about your claim online now.
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