Areas of Practice
Seaman & Seafarer Claims
We have extensive experience representing seaman in admiralty and maritime cases.
Cruise ship, cargo, and recreational boat crewmembers are involved in accidents on a daily basis, but unfortunately, crew accidents are not always reported, and if they are, oftentimes too much time elapses, leaving the crewmember with limited or no options for recovery. Crewmembers don't always get the medical care or compensation they deserve for their cruise injuries, but they are entitled to seek legal help with a crew accident lawyer as soon as the incident occurs.
Seafarer's who are injured or become ill, while on service of their vessel, have the right under United States law, to receive free medical care and food & shelter. In addition, all seafarers may have rights under United States law to:
- Wages & tips
- Medical care
- Food & shelter
- Transportation
- Contract benefits
- Money for injuries & disabilities
- To not be sexually harassed at work
Seaman's claims deal with the rights of seaman aboard any type of vessel. To be considered a "seaman" the person must aid in the navigation of the vessel or must contribute to the mission of the vessel. Also the person must spend a significant amount (generally 35% or more) of their time working on a vessel rather than working on land for their employer. Although the work being done by an individual might be on water, if a "vessel" is not involved, then the person is not a seaman. In addition, persons doing traditional seaman's work might also be considered a seaman. This is a very confusing area of the law and is often another pitfall for attorneys inexperienced in practicing admiralty and maritime law. As such, it is hard to set out any hard and fast rules.
If you have become ill or have suffered an injury while working onboard a vessel, or even on land while in the service of a vessel, our maritime lawyers will ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Lipcon, Margulies, Alsina & Winkleman, P.A. has been representing the interests of injured crew since 1971 and has been named the Top Law Firm Protecting Seafarer Rights. Our cruise accident lawyers have over 80 years of combined experience in admiralty and maritime law and will protect your rights as a seafarer so you can obtain the full spectrum of benefits you are rightfully entitled to, including money damages, medical care and lost wages. For more information on your rights as a seafarer, contact a maritime lawyer from our firm today for a free consultation to discuss your options.
