Understanding the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA)
The LHWCA is a federal law that provides compensation, medical care, and vocational rehabilitation to employees injured while working in navigable waters of the United States. This includes those involved in loading, unloading, repairing, or building vessels. For instance, injuries sustained in a docks accident may qualify for compensation.
If you’ve been injured at sea, Montiel Hodge can help. We are recognized as the premier Louisiana longshore defense lawyers, dedicated to supporting you.
Who Is Eligible for LHWCA Benefits?
Employees may be eligible to file longshore claims if they are covered under the LHWCA and have been injured on the job. Additionally, widows and widowers of those who have died due to work-related injuries may also qualify for benefits under the Act.
Benefits Under the LHWCA
As the top LHWCA defense attorney in Louisiana, Montiel Hodge offers expert advice. Navigating the LHWCA can be challenging, which is why we’re here to assist you. Here’s a summary of the benefits available to covered employees:
Temporary Benefits: While undergoing treatment for work-related injuries, employees may receive temporary benefits amounting to two-thirds of their weekly pay.
Approved Medical Expenses: Coverage includes:
Doctor visits
Surgery
Prescriptions
Crutches
Nursing assistance
Prostheses
Hearing aids
Other necessary recovery services/materials
Once treatment is complete, compensation may cover injured body parts or two-thirds of the employee’s lost wage-earning capacity. If a worker dies, survivors’ benefits may be available. Contact a Louisiana longshore death law firm if a claim arises from a work-related injury leading to a death under the LHWCA.
LHWCA Extensions
According to Congress, the LHWCA covers various employment types, with extensions offering similar benefits:
Defense Base Act (DBA): Covers employees working for private employers on military bases in the U.S. and those working on public contracts.
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA): Applies to employees working on the Outer Continental Shelf of the U.S.
Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentalities Act (NAFIA): Covers civilian employees of non-appropriated fund instrumentalities of the Armed Forces.
Get the Assistance You Need
If you’ve filed a claim due to an injury while working in U.S. navigable waters, don’t wait. Contact Montiel Hodge, the longshore defense lawyer you can trust.