What Injury Risks Does A Longshoreman (Dock Worker) Face On The Job?

longshoreman at longshore dock worker in a reflective vest, at the edge of a ferry boat pier, with water in the background

On-the-job injuries are common among local maritime workers, with hazardous workplace conditions putting them at risk. Longshoremen, shipbuilders, stevedores and shipbreakers face numerous threats each day as they load and unload cargo, repair large vessels and keep the supply chain running smoothly.

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act protects those who labor on docks and piers near navigable waters – and provides additional benefits to regular state Workers’ Compensation. This provision also offers disability or death benefits in dire circumstances.

If you are a dock worker in maritime field who has been hurt at work, contact Hoffman Law Firm today. Our team of Charleston longshoreman lawyers is here to help. We will fight for the medical care you need and the benefits you deserve.

Hoffman Law Firm has identified some common injuries faced by maritime workers here in the Charleston, South Carolina region:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Hand, arm, or shoulder injuries
  • Foot, leg, or knee injuries
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Hearing loss
  • Fractured/crushed bones
  • Amputations
  • Ligament and tendon injuries
  • Drowning
  • Burns
  • Occupational illnesses

Common Types Of Dock Worker Accidents

Given the grueling, exhausting nature of the work that longshore and harbor workers perform daily, accidents can be difficult to avoid. Here are some of the most common types of workplace accidents:

  • Slips and fall from heights or into the water
  • Drowning
  • Falling cargo
  • Explosions and fires
  • Falls from scaffolding
  • Lack of safety training
  • Electrocution
  • Accidents with vehicles/heavy machinery 
  • Exhaustion/burnout from long hours
  • Defective equipment
  • Injuries from lifting heavy items
  • Hazardous chemical exposure

Ask a Charleston Longshoreman Lawyer For Help Today! 

If you have been injured, trust an experienced longshoreman injury attorney to fight for you. Our Charleston personal injury lawyers are equipped to fight for the compensation you are entitled to, and to handle all communication with the insurance company so you can focus on recovery. 

We have served locals who have been injured at the Port of Charleston, Wando Welch Terminal, and South Carolina Ports Authority. Our team of Charleston longshore and harbor Workers’ Compensation attorneys knows your rights in South Carolina and we are ready to put our experience to work for you.

We can also help with various other personal injury claims, including the following:

When seeking a trusted personal injury law firm near me, you can choose us. For legal advice on your personal injury case, contact Hoffman Law Firm today to schedule your free consultation at our North Charleston, SC office. 

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