New Orleans Lawyer Experienced in Admiralty Matters

New Orleans, Louisiana attorney handles claims of maritime injuries and other losses

Water is a big part of life here in Louisiana, where the Mississippi meets the Gulf of Mexico. The tremendous commercial and recreational use of our waterways brings economic benefits but, unfortunately, also brings the danger of serious accidents and resulting injuries. If you were hurt on the water either as a vessel's passenger or crew member, you may have a right to recover compensation for your losses. There are also money damages possible for workers hurt on shore adjacent to U.S. waterways. Michael J. Mestayer, a Professional Legal Corporation in New Orleans, is experienced in the special laws that apply in maritime injury cases and knows how to use them to seek justice for victims. Mr. Mestayer is also skilled in resolution of other admiralty law issues that arise in commercial boating and shipping activities.

Strong representation for workers injured at sea or on land

Workers injured in the course of their employment on a vessel are covered by the Jones Act, a federal law designed to hold maritime employers accountable for negligence or for operating an unseaworthy craft.

Ship workers suing under the Jones Act can recover "maintenance and cure," which compensates them for medical treatment until they reach maximum improvement. They may also be entitled to damages for pain and suffering and for past and future lost wages.

Workers injured on lands and structures adjoining U.S. waters - such as piers, docks, terminals and wharves - may be eligible for relief under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The law provides compensation for medical care and vocational rehabilitation services to dock workers, stevedores and others disabled from on the job injuries. Families of workers who die of injuries may recover survivor benefits.

Another important law is the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA), which allows recovery of compensation for families of victims of fatal accidents such as those on drilling rigs and oil platforms.

We have more than 40 years of experience pursuing admiralty claims, securing millions of dollars in compensation for victims of a wide range of serious accidents. We will closely evaluate your situation and chart a course for achieving optimal results.

Skilled representation of injured passengers

Maritime accidents can injure not only crew members but also passengers and others who are not employees of the vessel. Under federal maritime law, a duty of reasonable care is owed to all persons onboard. Passengers can bring a personal injury claim for negligence and can also sue under federal statutes making owners and masters liable for injuries caused by known defects, understaffing of crews or failure to comply with inspection standards or to obey navigation laws. The DOHSA also allows recovery for passenger fatalities. Mr. Mestayer is fully familiar with the requirements for successful litigation on behalf of passengers and their families.

Arrange a free consultation with a caring New Orleans admiralty attorney

Michael J. Mestayer, a Professional Legal Corporation, is located in New Orleans and serves clients throughout Louisiana and the larger Gulf Region. If you or a loved one has been injured on or near the water or you have another admiralty issue to resolve, call 800-526-1850 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation.