San Diego Longshore Accident Lawyer

If you earn your living on the docks or aboard vessels calling at the Port of San Diego and you have been hurt on the job, you may be covered by the Federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). 

Strict filing deadlines apply, so it is CRITICAL to move quickly to safeguard your benefits.

The Law Offices of Preston Easley APC offers seasoned advocacy from a San Diego longshore accident lawyer who knows the waterfront, the law, and the tactics employers and insurers use to limit payouts.

Contact us today at (619) 699-4884 for a free, confidential claim review with a knowledgeable San Diego longshore injury attorney. We will explain your rights, outline your legal options, and help you decide your next steps with confidence.

Recent Review From Our San Diego Office:
“Very knowledgeable attorneys in the area of Maritime law with decades of experience to help you get what you are entitled to.”
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Why Choose Longshoremen Attorney Preston Easley?

• Over 40 years of longshore accident litigation experience on the California coast
• Millions of dollars recovered for longshoremen, harbor workers, and seafarers
• Graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis – bringing firsthand insight into longshore injury claims
• Contingency-fee representation: no legal fees unless we are successful in your claim

What is the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)?

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal law that provides compensation and medical benefits to maritime workers who are injured while performing job duties on or near navigable waters of the United States. This includes longshoremen, dock workers, shipbuilders, harbor construction workers, and other employees who are not covered under traditional state workers’ compensation systems or the Jones Act.

Under the LHWCA, injured workers may be entitled to coverage for medical treatment, temporary or permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation, regardless of fault. However, navigating an LHWCA claim can be complex, especially when determining eligibility, calculating benefits, or handling disputes with employers and insurance carriers, making experienced legal guidance critical for protecting your rights and securing full compensation. THAT’S WHERE WE COME IN!

San Diego Longshore Accident Lawyer (LHWCA Experts) Free Consultation – Contact us today at (619) 699-4884

What Qualifies as a Longshore Accident?

To qualify for a successful longshore accident claim, the injury claim generally must meet both:
1. Status Requirement – The worker must be engaged in “maritime employment” such as:

• Longshoremen (dock workers);
• Harbor workers;
• Ship repairmen;
• Shipbuilders;
• Shipbreakers;
• Terminal and cargo handlers.

2. Situs (location) Requirement – The injury must occur on:

• Navigable waters of the United States;
• A pier;
• Wharf;
• Dock;
• Terminal;
• Shipyard;
• Marine railway or other adjoining maritime area.

The accident does not have to occur on a vessel itself. Injuries on adjoining land-based structures used for maritime commerce often qualify.

Contact us today at (619) 699-4884 for a free, confidential consultation.

Hazards Facing Workers in San Diego Harbors

Working on piers, wharves, and ships exposes longshore crews to a wide range of dangers. Common accidents include:

• Chemical exposure, fires, or explosions
• Crane, winch, and rigging failures
• Forklift or yard-tractor collisions
• Slips, trips, and falls on wet or uneven surfaces
• Heavy-machinery malfunctions or poor maintenance
• Ladder or gangway collapses
• Repetitive-strain injuries from inadequate tools or staffing

Underlying causes often trace back to defective equipment, inadequate safety training, poor storage of hazardous materials, or lack of proper personal protective gear.

San Diego’s Busy Port Operations

Although smaller than its Los Angeles counterpart, the Port of San Diego remains a vital commercial hub. In fiscal-year 2023 the port moved more than 2.4 million tons of cargo, including fresh produce, break-bulk steel, and bulk commodities. 

Activity is spread over two primary facilities—Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal, which handles refrigerated containers, break-bulk, and bulk cargo, and National City Marine Terminal, the West Coast gateway for imported automobiles. 

Cruise traffic adds another layer of complexity to commercial vessel activity. The 2024-2025 season alone is expected to bring approximately 265,000 passengers through the B-Street Pier terminal.

With vessels loading and unloading around the clock and multiple trades working side by side, accidents can happen in seconds—making experienced legal help essential.

How Law Offices of Preston Easley APC Can Help

• Immediate investigation to document unsafe conditions and preserve evidence
• Coordination with medical specialists to support accurate diagnoses and ongoing treatment
• Filing and litigating LHWCA claims and, where appropriate, third-party lawsuits against negligent ship owners, stevedoring companies, or equipment manufacturers
• Pursuing full compensation for wage loss, medical bills, vocational retraining, and permanent disability

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much compensation can I receive after a longshoremen injury?

A: Under the LHWCA you are generally entitled to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to a capped maximum. Additional recovery may be available through third-party claims (for example, against an equipment maker or negligent subcontractor).

Q: What should I do right after my accident?

A: After an accident, time is of the essence. Any delay might be construed later as though it was not serious enough to warrant immediate attention.

1. Notify your employer within 30 days—sooner is better.
2. Seek medical care immediately and keep all records.
3. Document the scene with photos and videos if possible and collect witness information.
4. Document your injuries with photos and videos.
5. Consult a San Diego longshore accident lawyer to file the necessary claim paperwork on time.

Talk With a San Diego Longshore Attorney Today

The clock is already ticking on your right to benefits. Call the Law Offices of Preston Easley APC at (619) 699-4884 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation. We will answer your questions, handle the paperwork, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve – so you can focus on healing and getting back on your feet.

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