The Longshore &
Harbor Workers Compensation Act
If you or someone you care about has suffered an injury while employed as a longshore worker, give us a call to discuss your claim.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a critical federal law that provides workers' compensation benefits to employees injured on the job on navigable waters of the United States or in adjacent areas used for the loading, unloading, repairing, or building of vessels.
Under the LHWCA, eligible workers are entitled to compensation for work-related injuries, medical treatment, and vocational rehabilitation services. In cases of fatal injuries, the Act also provides survivor benefits to the deceased worker’s dependents if the injury leads to or contributes to the worker’s death.
Covered injuries under the LHWCA include physical injuries, occupational diseases, hearing loss, and illnesses related to employment activities. These benefits are typically paid by the employer’s self-insurance program or through a private insurance carrier.
If you’ve suffered a Longshore Act injury, it’s crucial to understand your rights and ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to under this law.
Who is covered under the LHWCA?
"LHWCA Coverage for Maritime Workers – Compensation for Injuries on Navigable Waters"
"Get Expert Legal Help for Your Longshore Act Workers' Compensation Claim – Call Grace Campbell for a Free Consultation"
The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides workers' compensation benefits to employees in traditional maritime occupations, including longshore workers, ship-repairers, shipbuilders, ship-breakers, and harbor construction workers.
Injuries must occur on the navigable waters of the United States or in adjoining areas, such as piers, docks, terminals, wharves, and areas used for loading and unloading vessels.
Non-maritime employees may also be eligible for LHWCA benefits if their work is performed on navigable waters and their injuries occur in these areas. If you are working adjacent to the water, for example; office clerks, truck drivers and warehouse workers, you may receive coverage. This ensures broad protection for workers in maritime-related industries and environments.
What is an "occupational disease"?
And how does that apply to your Longshore Act Case?
An occupational disease is a health condition or illness that arises as a direct result of a person's job or work environment
Under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) and other workers' compensation laws, occupational diseases are covered if they can be directly linked to the employee’s work activities. Some common examples of occupational diseases include:
-
Respiratory diseases (e.g., asbestosis, silicosis) caused by inhaling hazardous dust or fumes.
-
Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud noises in certain workplaces, such as construction sites or factories.
-
Skin disorders due to exposure to toxic chemicals or irritants.
-
Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome) resulting from repetitive motion or heavy lifting.
-
Cancer caused by exposure to carcinogenic substances like asbestos or benzene.
The key factor for an illness to be classified as an "occupational disease" is that it can be traced to the work environment or job responsibilities, and it typically develops or worsens over a period of time due to consistent exposure.
Benefits for an Occupational Disease
You may qualify for benefits if you have suffered from an occupational disease due to work environment or job responsibilities that can occur based on your job responsibilities.
If your illness is linked to on-the-job exposure to harmful conditions or substances, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA).
This includes coverage for occupational diseases where symptoms or disabilities may not appear until after you have retired or left your line of work within maritime fields.
Whether you have been exposed to hazardous materials or developed health conditions from repetitive work, you have rights to medical benefits and compensation for your illness or injury. Don’t wait to file your claim—contact an expert to learn more about your eligibility for workers' compensation benefits under the LHWCA.
"Get Expert Legal Help for Your Longshore Act Workers' Compensation Claim – Call Grace Campbell for a Free Consultation"
If you have a Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) claim, contact Grace Campbell today for a comprehensive, unbiased case consultation. With over a decade of experience specializing in Longshore Act claims, Grace Campbell offers expert legal guidance to help you navigate the complexities of your workers' compensation case.
Whether you’ve been injured on the job or are dealing with an occupational disease, don’t wait—call now to secure the benefits you deserve!