Overview
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides critical protections for maritime workers injured on the job, but it also presents unique challenges for employers and insurers. Claims involving dockworkers, shipbuilders, or other covered employees can lead to costly medical benefits, disability payments, and disputes over coverage or liability. At Brown Sims, we specialize in defending LHWCA claims, offering tailored strategies to minimize exposure and resolve disputes efficiently. With extensive experience in maritime law and workers’ compensation, we’re here to protect your interests in this complex regulatory landscape.
Our approach to LHWCA defense is thorough and proactive. We analyze the specifics of each claim—whether it’s an injury on navigable waters, a shipyard accident, or a dispute over “status” and “situs”—to challenge eligibility, contest exaggerated injuries, or dispute causation. By collaborating with medical experts, vocational specialists, and maritime industry professionals, we build strong defenses grounded in evidence and legal precedent. Whether negotiating settlements with the U.S. Department of Labor or litigating before an Administrative Law Judge, we aim to reduce costs and achieve favorable outcomes for our clients.
At Brown Sims, we understand the stakes involved in LHWCA claims, from rising insurance premiums to operational disruptions. Our team is well-versed in the nuances of the Act, its interplay with state workers’ compensation laws, and the needs of employers in the maritime sector.