The job duties a worker performs on a daily basis can vary depending on the occupation. For example, an employee may have a “desk job” and work on the computer all day, or he or she may be a doctor or nurse in a hospital. A longshoreman, also referred to as a harbor worker, is a common occupation in areas or locations that are near or on the water. In the U.S. Virgin Islands, many residents are employed by shipping or docking companies. Typical jobs include cargo loaders, ship mechanics, shipbuilders, and people who work on the docks or piers. These harbor workers may be at risk for unique injuries, and they should be sure to understand if they are entitled to compensation and how to file a claim.

Common Types of Harbor Accidents and Injuries

Due to the nature of their jobs and where they are located, workers in the maritime industry face dangers that office workers would not. For instance, these individuals may be loading and unloading cargo or repairing ships in port. Longshoremen often use large and hazardous machines to lift heavy cargo while working on wet and slippery surfaces.

Here are a few of the most common types of accidents that can take place in a workplace that is on or near the water, and the resulting injuries that a harbor worker may suffer:

The U.S. Virgin Islands is a beautiful location for tourists to visit and individuals to work. Due to the growing popularity of the islands, new construction projects are starting every day. Additional roads, hotels, restaurants, and attractions are constantly being added to meet tourism needs. However, many of the construction sites that are associated with these projects are linked to interchangeable workers, language barriers, inadequate time frames, improper training, and dangerous equipment. Carelessness and negligent behaviors in an already hazardous environment could lead to workplace injury.  

Workers’ Compensation Rights in the U.S. Virgin Islands

In the U.S. Virgin Islands, an employer must have workers’ compensation insurance coverage if the organization has more than one employee. Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides medical and disability benefits to employees who suffer injuries in a workplace accident. If the employee accepts medical treatment and benefits through workers’ comp insurance after an injury, he or she forfeits the right to sue his or her employer. However, a worker can take legal action to cover the costs of medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering if the company does not have workers’ compensation coverage. Furthermore, the employer will be responsible for any additional fines and penalties.  

When someone slips and falls in a restaurant, shop, or other place of business, they can suffer serious harm such as broken bones, back and neck injuries, or brain trauma. If this happens to you, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses not covered by your own health insurance, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

However, not every slip-and-fall will be awarded compensation. You have to have evidence that the business owner was negligent in their duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions for their customers.