Workers suffer injuries on the job every day. Maritime workers face various risks when on the job. Despite the safety protocol and regulations designed to reduce the risk of injuries, accidents still happen. The union has done bargaining to help improve safety, but not all risks can be eliminated. If you are a longshoreman or maritime worker who has suffered injuries on the job, help is available. You might be able to get the help you need by filing a workers' compensation claim against your employer. Workers' compensation covers medical expenses and pays lost wages while the injured worker is recovering. International Longshoremen's Association A labor union that represents longshore workers along the East Coast, the International Longshoremen's Association has about 200 local affiliates in port cities along the East Coast. Founded in 1892, the union has about 65,000 members. The organization's roots go back to colonial America when ships arriving at ports from Europe led to cries for "Men 'long shore!" meaning help of people to unload the cargo from those ships. While initially men who unloaded ships had other professions, the role grew into a full-time role. Common Workplace Injuries Longshoremen face a variety of work hazards on the daily basis. Regardless of how safe a team works or the protocol that are put in place, injuries are bound to happen. As an example, longshoremen are unloading shipments all the time. The constant lifting can lead to repetitive trauma back injuries that might require extensive physical rehabilitation or even surgical intervention. You could come into contact with dangerous substances or toxic chemicals. These could lead to skin burns or lung diseases that require extensive treatment. Slip and fall accidents are common for longshoremen. These falls can lead to broken bones, traumatic brain injury, and spinal injuries. Some of these injuries can have long-term effects. If you have been hurt at work, contact the International Longshoremen's Association to learn about the workers' comp claims process. What to Do If You Have Been Hurt On the Job If you have suffered injuries at work, you need to do everything that you can to protect your rights. Here are some tips regarding what you should do: Let your supervisor or human resources know about your accident and any injuries suffered right away. Even injuries that don't seem very significant must be reported. You should file an accident report as soon as you can. Serious injuries warrant a call to 911. The responding police officer will complete an accident report. Get a copy of any accident report that is filed regarding your injury. Get immediate medical care for any injuries that you suffer during your work duties. Make contact with your the International Longshoremen's Association representative. He or she can give you information about filing a workers' compensation claim. Protect Your Legal Rights Workers' compensation covers any work-related injuries. Following those five steps listed above can help you with your claim greatly. Consult with a workers' compensation attorney before you try to talk with the insurance company. You don't want to sign away your rights to a claim. Also, make sure you have talked with the International Longshoremen's Association. Additional Resources Benefits After an Injury from Operating a Crane What Damages Does Workers' Comp Cover? *Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against your employer, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
