Were you injured while working as a fish processor? If so, you need an attorney who can effectively fight for the compensation you deserve and need to heal. Contact a dedicated Snohomish County fish processor injury lawyer from Amy C Brown Law, PLLC for your free initial consultation today.
Fish Processor Injury Lawyer | Representing Injured Maritime Workers
Amy C Brown Law, PLLC has fought on behalf of injured maritime workers for years, and we are prepared to put that experience to work for you in your case as well. Reach out to a knowledgeable and compassionate Snohomish County maritime injury lawyer from our legal team today.
Common Fish Processor Injuries
Fish processors are exposed to various hazards that can lead to severe injuries. Just some of the most common injuries we see occur in these facilities are as follows:
- Cuts and Lacerations: The daily use of knives, scalers, and other sharp instruments can result in deep cuts, often requiring stitches or leading to infections.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Tasks like filleting fish or shucking shellfish can cause RSIs, with symptoms that may develop over time, affecting muscles, nerves, and tendons.
- Slip and Fall Injuries: Wet floors and icy conditions on decks increase the risk of slips and falls, potentially leading to broken bones, head injuries, or severe sprains.
- Machinery-Related Injuries: Processing equipment, if improperly used or maintained, can cause entanglements, amputations, or crush injuries.
- Cold-Related Injuries: Prolonged exposure to cold, especially in refrigerated areas or during winter, can lead to frostbite or hypothermia.
- Back and Shoulder Injuries: Lifting heavy loads, such as crates of fish or equipment, can cause strain or long-term damage to the back and shoulders.
- Hearing Loss: Constant noise from processing machinery can lead to hearing impairment if protective gear is not adequately provided or used.
Steps to Take After a Fish Processing Injury
Immediate and appropriate action following an injury can significantly affect the outcome of any compensation claim. After sustaining an injury on the job, you should try to take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Prioritize your health to diagnose and treat injuries correctly.
- Report the Injury Promptly: Inform your supervisor or employer about the injury, adhering to company-specific protocols.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your injury, including photos, medical records, and a personal account.
- Gather Witness Statements: If colleagues witnessed the incident, their accounts could be invaluable to your claim.
- Adhere to Medical Recommendations: Following a doctor’s advice is crucial for recovery and claim validity.
- Consult with a Maritime Injury Lawyer: An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable guidance on navigating the legal aspects of your claim.
- File a Claim: With your lawyer’s assistance, initiate the claims process to seek compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other related costs.
Laws Governing Maritime Injury Claims
The legal framework for maritime injury claims involves several key statutes:
- The Jones Act allows injured maritime workers to claim compensation from their employers for negligence-related injuries.
- The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA): Offers compensation to maritime workers not covered by the Jones Act, including disability benefits and medical care for injuries incurred on the job.
- Washington State Workers’ Compensation Laws: While federal laws primarily cover maritime injuries, understanding how state laws interact is crucial for comprehensive legal protection.
Contact a Fish Processor Injury Lawyer Today
Don’t face the uphill battle for compensation after a fish processor injury on your own–contact a skilled Snohomish County lawyer from Amy C Brown Law, PLLC, today. We are here to fight for the compensation you deserve and need to get back on your feet again.
