The LeadersIn Maritime Law

What Can I Do If a Loved One Died?

The death of a family member can have devastating consequences on the surviving relatives. When their death was the result of negligence or the unseaworthiness of a vessel or oil platform accident, the sense of wrong done can increase. No amount of compensation will ever be able to make up for the loss of a loved one. However, it is still important to hold the responsible individual or company accountable for what they have done. Not only can it bring a sense of closure and justice to families, but it can prevent the same tragedy from happening again. That is why you should call Arnold & Itkin to find out how we can assist with getting your family the peace and justice you deserve.

What benefits am I entitled to?

A sea worker encompasses a broad range of positions in the maritime industry. In short, they are any individual who contributes significantly to the operation and work of the vessel. If your family member or loved one was killed while working, you can pursue a claim to compensate for the pain and loss it has caused your family.

These are some of the financial matters that a claim can cover:

  • Medical and disability payments
  • Occupational disease compensation from workplace hazards in maritime
  • Travel to and from medical treatment
  • Wrongful death benefits to compensate for the death of a mariner due to workplace injuries

Federal Protection for Sea Workers

In maritime law, there are several different avenues available to those who want to file a lawsuit pertaining to a wrongful death. The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) was created with the sole purpose of providing for families who lost a mother, farther, or spouse to an offshore accident. It makes it easier to make a claim as well as recover damages, even if they were killed in foreign waters. However, this act only covers monetary losses due to lost wages. It does not cover pain and suffering or loss of companionship.

Under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Comp Act, a surviving spouse can claim 50% of their average weekly wages. If there were dependent children left behind, a further 16.66% will be added to that amount.

Why should you hire our firm?

Our attorneys are well-versed in all areas of personal injury, especially when it comes to maritime accidents. We know that working in that industry can bring huge risks, and every single day, someone sacrifices a part of themselves to complete their job. When a tragedy occurs, this can be an extremely distress time. That is why Arnold & Itkin has fought and obtained billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. With our wealth of experience advocating for injured clients, we understand what it takes to get an outcome that favors the client.

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you can trust our commitment to your case.

What is it Like To Work With Arnold & Itkin

Arnold & Itkin represented nearly a third of the crewmembers injured in the Deepwater Horizon explosion.

I encountered professionalism, understanding, compassion… lot of compassion. They really felt for what me and my wife were going through.
~ Deepwater Horizon Crew Member

Work with a lawyer who truly understands Maritime Law.

Because maritime law is so complex and so complicated, it is crucial that you work with an attorney who has an in-depth understanding of how it works and who has proven themselves in similar cases before.

Related Maritime Videos
  • Arnold & Itkin has represented offshore workers nationwide and has recovered billions of dollars. Watch this video to learn how and why that matters.

  • Arnold & Itkin has achieved record-setting verdicts for offshore workers across the country, representing survivors and victims of the nation’s biggest offshore tragedies.

  • At Arnold & Itkin, our success can be traced to one core belief that we've held throughout the years: every case is personal to our team.

  • At Arnold & Itkin, we pride ourselves on giving our clients access to the best lawyers and best legal team possible. Because that's how you get the best results.

  • Our founding partners have worked together for more than a decade.

  • We know this a difficult time. Let us help.

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