Maritime Lawsuit

Steps to Filing a Maritime Lawsuit

If you have been injured while at sea, you may be considering filing a maritime lawsuit. If this is the case, it's important to know what preparation you can complete to be ready. You may have already spoken to an attorney, and it that is the case, we advise you to follow the instructions you get from your counsel. If you have not contacted an attorney, then we suggest that you begin doing your research now to find one.

Maritime law is a complex area of law that will require an attorney that really knows what he or she is doing and is comfortable with this area of law. Be sure to contact multiple attorneys, check bar records, meet with the attorney and just get a good feel of the attorney before making a decision.

Let's assume that you have not retained an attorney. There are steps that you can take to be more prepared. The following are some suggestions for your preparation:

• Your health should be first priority. Seek all medical treatment necessary to get back on the road to recovery. We suggest that you only see doctors that you know and have chosen. Do not get medical treatment for this work-related injury from a doctor that your employer has referred. It is not always the case, however, there are doctors that are employer-referred that may have been instructed to treat only what is necessary to get you back to work.
• Keep good records. Make sure to obtain a copy of any incident or accident report you have completed. You should also keep records of any correspondence you have had with your employer, your insurance carrier and/or your doctor. Make sure to keep copies of e-mails as well.
• Collect contact names. Collect the names and the contact information of co-workers that were working during your accident. You should also collect names and contact information of any witnesses to the injury. Let them know that you may need to contact them in the future. You may get some hesitation on the part of these workers. No one likes the idea of being a witness to a maritime lawsuit. Let them know that it may not be necessary and is just too early to tell.

This is a tough situation in many ways. It is tough not being able to go back to work but it is equally tough going to work everyday knowing that you may need to file a maritime lawsuit against your employer. The attorneys at Williams Kherkher understand fully your situation and are ready to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.