Question 1

What are the OSHA Fatal Four hazards?

Accepted Answer

The OSHA Fatal Four are falls, struck-by object, caught-in/between, and electrocution. These four hazards cause nearly 60% of construction worker deaths nationwide and the majority of serious maritime injuries. If you were hurt in one of these accidents, federal safety laws were almost certainly violated.

Question 2

Do OSHA regulations apply to maritime workers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. OSHA has specific maritime safety standards: 29 CFR Part 1915 for shipyards, Part 1917 for marine terminals, and Part 1918 for longshoring operations. These regulations set mandatory safety requirements your employer must follow. Violations of these standards prove negligence in your injury claim.

Question 3

How does an OSHA violation prove my employer was negligent?

Accepted Answer

An OSHA violation shows your employer failed to meet the minimum legal safety standard. In your injury case, we use these violations to prove your employer knew about the danger, knew how to prevent it, and chose not to. That's the legal definition of negligence.

Question 4

What if my employer says the accident was my fault?

Accepted Answer

Employers always try to blame injured workers. But if they violated OSHA standards — didn't provide fall protection, didn't guard machinery, didn't inspect equipment — the law says they're responsible regardless of what you did. Maritime law holds employers to a high standard of care that can't be excused by blaming the worker.

Question 5

How long do I have to file a claim?

Accepted Answer

Deadlines are strict. For LHWCA claims, you must give written notice within 30 days and file a formal claim within one year. Jones Act claims must be filed within three years. Because these deadlines are unforgiving, contact a maritime lawyer immediately — waiting even a few weeks can jeopardize your rights.

Question 6

Who pays for my medical bills and lost wages?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your employment status. Jones Act seamen can sue their employer for full compensation. LHWCA-covered workers receive medical benefits and partial wage replacement, plus the right to sue third parties. Either way, you should not be paying out of pocket for an injury caused by your employer's safety violations.

Question 7

Can I be fired for filing a claim?

Accepted Answer

No. Federal law prohibits retaliation against workers who report injuries or file claims. If your employer fires, demotes or harasses you for pursuing your rights, that's a separate federal violation creating an additional claim for damages.

Question 8

What compensation can I receive?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your case, you may recover: all past and future medical expenses, lost wages and loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, disability and disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life. In cases of gross negligence, you may also recover punitive damages designed to punish the employer.

struck-by object injury

OSHA Fatal Four: How These Top 4 Hazards Prove Maritime Negligence