Employers in the maritime industry face many challenges, including dealing with injury claims brought by workers under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. Fortunately, your St. Louis, MO longshore lawyer can help you protect your business from fraudulent claims. At Goldstein and Price, L.C., we’ve been helping companies just like yours for over 60 years. Read on to see how to respond to longshore claims, and get in touch with a marine injury lawyer from our team to get started.
Evaluating The Claim
The first step when a claim is filed is to carefully evaluate the details provided. Employers should gather all information related to the incident, including accident reports, witness statements, and the worker’s job records. Reviewing time sheets, training documents, and safety logs can provide a clearer picture of what happened and whether the claim is valid. This documentation can help your St. Louis longshore lawyer build a proper response.
Investigating The Incident
Once the claim has been reviewed, a thorough investigation should take place. This includes speaking with supervisors, co-workers, and anyone who may have witnessed the event. Employers should also examine the location where the injury occurred to determine whether any hazards were present and if safety procedures were followed. A well-documented investigation can provide valuable evidence if there are disputes later.
Communicating With Insurance Providers
Most employers carry insurance to cover these types of claims. Notifying the insurance provider promptly allows them to begin their own evaluation and support the company’s response. Providing them with accurate and complete information early in the process helps prevent delays.
Addressing Potential Defenses
Not all claims are valid, and as your St. Louis longshore lawyer can explain, employers have the right to raise defenses when appropriate. For example, there may be questions about whether the worker was injured on the job or if the injury occurred outside of work. There may also be situations where the employee was not following safety procedures or where other factors contributed to the injury. A dockworker injury lawyer can help identify these defenses and determine the best way to present them. Taking a proactive approach can help limit liability and protect the company’s financial interests.
Maintaining Professionalism During The Process
Throughout the claim process, employers should remain professional and avoid actions that could be seen as retaliatory. Workers who file claims are protected by law, and any appearance of punishment or discrimination can lead to additional legal challenges. By keeping communications respectful and focused on facts, employers can avoid escalating conflicts and maintain a positive workplace environment, even during difficult situations.
Preparing For Hearings Or Litigation
Some claims may be resolved quickly through insurance or settlement discussions, while others may move toward formal hearings or litigation. Employers should be prepared for this possibility by continuing to gather evidence, maintaining organized records, and working closely with their legal team. Having a clear strategy and understanding of the process can make a significant difference in the outcome of the case.
How We Can Help
At Goldstein and Price, L.C., we work with employers to defend against longshore claims and protect their business interests. These cases require careful handling and a clear plan from the very beginning. Fortunately, we have six decades of experience in longshore claims, insurance coverage, and more. Get in touch with us today, and see how a maritime accident lawyer from our team can keep you protected.