Costa Concordia Hearings Hold Attention Of Port Of Miami Workers

By Author: Molly larzelere
Total Articles: 27
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Many who work at or near the Port of Miami are following the hearings surrounding the Costa Concordia shipwreck with more than a passing interest. The case and its outcome will prove to be especially telling for any workers who have suffered a maritime injury in the past, as well as for those who might be subjected to the same in the future. For most of the world, when we think about the Costa Concordia disaster, we think of the passengers aboard the ship who suffered injury or who lost their lives. Longshoremen and other maritime employees at the Port of Miami, however, think of colleagues who were engaged in the same type of work that they do, and they are waiting to see how those colleagues who sustained injury are compensated.

Much of the question with the Costa Concordia revolves around whether or not it can truly be considered to be based out of Miami as a part of the Carnival fleet. If so, then U.S. law might apply in many of the injury cases. Of course, the fact remains that when the ship experienced its difficulties and an injury would have been sustained by a crew member, the ship was nowhere near the Port of ...
... Miami, nor was it in American waters.

Maritime law can be confusing even in cases that are not as complicated as the Costa Concordia case, so it is very important for any maritime worker to consult with an attorney versed in maritime law in the event of an injury. It is also important for all Port of Miami workers to remember that one does not actually have to work on board an actual ship in order to be considered a maritime worker, in most cases. The Jones Act is very specific in its inclusion of longshoremen and other workers who work on docks and in ports. If you have suffered an injury as a result of your work, check with a maritime attorney who can help you to determine if your work would fall under the coverage of the Jones act.

While the Costa Concordia hearings and any subsequent trials may help to establish some precedents when it comes to cruise ship injuries, those who work at the Port of Miami are, in most cases, already covered under the Jones Act. If you have suffered a Port of Miami injury and there is some question as to who might bear responsibility for the damages in your case, contact a Florida maritime attorney for help in seeking the justice that you deserve.

The Law Offices of Jason G. Barnett P.A - If you have suffered a Port of Miami injury, you need immediate answers. The Law Offices of Jason G. Barnett are keenly aware that insurance companies often deny legitimate claims. We also know that it can be extremely frustrating. Don’t lose your entitlement to benefits that are rightfully yours. We are a law firm that will fight for your rights. Call 954.618.1776, toll-free 888.854.8700, or visit http://barnettattorneys.com/ to speak with a Florida maritime attorney who understands how a Port of Miami injury would be handled in Florida.