Job Injuries
Job-related injuries are always difficult. In addition to the pain, stress and possible loss of income, the injured employee often has to communicate with the employer under the cloud of suspicion, anger and resentment. Many times, the employee feels pressured into receiving care from the company doctor. Other times, an injured employee may be hesitant to do anything about their job-related injury, out of fear of retribution or termination.Fortunately, there are laws to protect injured workers from the illegal acts of their employers following an injury. The law is vast, and the other side is very experienced. Any employee that has suffered a job-related injury should immediately contact a lawyer. Employers and their insurance companies routinely hire attorneys after employees get hurt on the job.
Jones Act
The Jones Act is a federal law that provides for benefits to workers who are injured on sea going vessels on navigable waters and offshore oilrigs, which can be towed and are not permanently affixed to the ocean floor. Some of the vessels that are considered under the Jones Act include: tankers, fishing boats, barges, crew boats, oil rigs, shrimp boats, ferries, tug boats, and many others. Settlements in Jones Act injury cases can be significant, but the law is very complex. Injured workers should consult with a lawyer early in the case and be aware of the employer's desire to minimize their losses.
F.E.L.A. Railroad Injuries
The Federal Employer’s Liability Act is a federal law that provides for benefits to workers’ who are injured on or around trains engaged in interstate commerce. You should consult with a lawyer about F.E.L.A. coverage if you believe that your injury may be covered. Unlike workers’ compensation, workers’ may be entitled to sue for damages if their injuries were caused by the employer’s negligence. Also, unlike workers’ compensation, there is no limit on the amount of damages that can be recovered.
Third Party Cases
Third Party Cases refers to personal injury cases against the person or company at fault when there is also a Workers’ Compensation claim. In this type of situation the worker should collect compensation benefits and pursue a personal injury case against the person or company at fault.
Job Lung Disease
Many types of jobs are associated with health hazards, and the lungs are among the most vulnerable parts of the body to airborne threats. Exposure to some substances can lead to occupational lung disease and in some cases, even lung cancer. Occupations especially at risk are: miners, farmers, asbestos handlers, printers, painters, sandblasters, cement and concrete finishers, bricklayers, welders, ironworkers, shipbuilders, and those working with epoxy resins or isocyanates.
