Los Angeles Maritime Injury Lawyer

A maritime injury can change your life in an instant. Serious injuries, mounting medical
bills, and time away from work are often compounded by complex federal laws and
powerful maritime employers determined to protect their interests.

If you were injured while working on or near the waters of Los Angeles, our personal injury lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation that accounts for the seriousness of your loss and injuries. Our maritime injury law firm has decades of experience in handling high-stakes claims involving federal maritime law, layered liability, and aggressive defense teams.

Our Legacy: Established in 1972, Jacoby & Meyers dedicated decades of work to a better and more accessible personal injury law for the people of Los Angeles and California.
Proven Track Record: Over $2 billion recovered, our case results reflect our attorneys’ effort to pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Client-Centered Representation: Client testimonials highlight our consistent focus on communication and careful preparation, ensuring every case gets the attention it deserves.
No Upfront Attorney Costs: You won’t pay attorney fees up front to start your case with our maritime injury lawyers. We collect our fees only after we secure a settlement for your case.

Get a clear understanding of your rights and options. Contact our Los Angeles maritime injury lawyers today for a free consultation.

Why Los Angeles Trusts Jacoby and Meyers

For more than five decades, Jacoby & Meyers has represented injured workers throughout California. Our skilled attorneys handle cases that demand strong evidence, disciplined preparation, and trial-ready strategy, especially in cases involving federal maritime rules, layered insurance coverage, and large employers or contractors with experienced defense teams.

50+ years in Service: Has been representing Los Angeles and California clients since 1972.
Statewide Resources: 14 offices across California, with a strong presence in Los Angeles.
Litigation Readiness: We prepare every case thoroughly and are ready to pursue litigation when needed.

If you were injured while working on or near the water, an experienced maritime injury lawyer can help you understand your options and the legal claims process.

Can I Afford a Maritime Injury Lawyer?

After a maritime injury in Los Angeles, whether aboard a vessel, on a dock, or in
navigable waters, many injured workers hesitate to call a lawyer because of cost
concerns. Medical treatment, lost income, and financial uncertainty can make legal fees feel overwhelming.
You don’t have to let finances prevent you from protecting your rights. At Jacoby & Meyers, maritime injury claims are handled on a contingency fee basis, which means:

● No upfront attorney costs — You don’t have to pay our attorneys their fees to start your case.

● Contingency-based fees — We obtain our lawyer fees from the settlement we sought for you.

● Claim and insurer management — We handle communications so you’re notpressured or overwhelmed.

Our goal is to remove both the legal and financial burden, allowing you to focus on
recovery while your claim is handled with a disciplined, evidence-driven strategy.

What To Do After a Maritime Injury in Los Angeles

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Do not self-diagnose whether your injuries are minor or serious. See a doctor immediately to get a proper medical assessment and document your condition.
Report the Injury: Make sure to report the incident to your employer or vessel operator and ensure an incident report is created.
Document the Incident: Take photos of the vessel, equipment, work area, and visible injuries when possible.
Preserve Evidence: Keep safety gear, damaged equipment, clothing, and any written communications related to the incident.
Avoid Recorded Statements: Do not provide statements to employers or insurance representatives before speaking with a maritime injury lawyer.
Consult a Los Angeles Maritime Injury Attorney Early: Early involvement of a lawyer helps preserve evidence and address deadlines under maritime law.

Expert Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

In maritime injury cases, how you are classified can change which laws apply and what compensation may be available. Employers and insurers sometimes argue that a worker is not a “seaman” under the Jones Act and that a different system should apply instead. Looking closely at your job duties, how much time you spent working on a vessel or fleet of vessels, and where the work happened often helps determine the right legal path and strengthen the claim.

Common Causes of Maritime Injuries in Los Angeles

Maritime work exposes employees to hazardous conditions, including heavy machinery, moving cargo, elevated work areas, and constantly changing surfaces. In the Port of Los Angeles alone, operations involve 84 ship-to-shore cranes and 2,174 pieces of cargo-handling equipment, with 10.3 million TEUs moved in 2024, conditions that can increase exposure to crush hazards, falls, and equipment-related incidents.

Unsafe Vessel Conditions: Slippery decks, corrosion, poor maintenance, and inadequate lighting.
Defective or Poorly Maintained Equipment: Winches, cranes, ladders, rigging, and other mechanical systems that fail or are not serviced properly.
Falls Overboard or from Height: Missing guardrails, insufficient safety lines, or inadequate fall protection on vessels, docks, and gangways.
Cargo-Handling Accidents: Shifting loads, unsecured containers, pinch points, and struck-by hazards during loading/unloading.
Fires and Explosions: Fuel leaks, electrical failures, or improper handling and storage of hazardous materials.
Negligence or Inadequate Training: Safety procedures not followed, poor supervision, or improper response to known hazards.
Weather and Sea Conditions: Rough water, wind, and changing conditions that are not properly accounted for in vessel operations.

Common Injuries in a Maritime Accident

Maritime accidents often result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment, prolonged time away from work, and, in some cases, permanent job limitations.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head trauma from falls, falling objects, or sudden impacts that may lead to cognitive, physical, or behavioral impairment.
Spinal cord and back injuries: Herniated discs, nerve damage, or paralysis caused by falls, crush forces, or heavy lifting.
Broken bones and orthopedic injuries: Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis that may require surgery and extended recovery.
Crush injuries: Severe tissue and bone damage caused by heavy machinery, shifting cargo, or equipment malfunctions.
Burns and thermal injuries: Injuries resulting from fires, explosions, chemicals, or electrical hazards common in maritime environments.
Internal organ injuries: Damage to organs such as the lungs, liver, or spleen caused by blunt force trauma.
Amputations: Loss of limbs or digits due to machinery failures or catastrophic workplace accidents.
Soft tissue injuries: Damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments that can limit mobility and strength.

Who May Be Liable for Your Injuries?

Liability in maritime injury cases is often shared among multiple parties, depending on how the incident occurred, where it happened, and which maritime laws apply. A thorough investigation is required to identify every source of responsibility and available compensation.

Vessel owners or operators: May be responsible for maintaining a seaworthy vessel and reasonably safe working conditions.
Employers: May be liable when negligence, unsafe practices, or inadequate training contributes to a maritime injury.
Charter companies or third-party contractors: Outside entities working on or around the vessel may share responsibility depending on their role and control of the work.
Equipment manufacturers or suppliers: May be liable if defective tools, machinery, or safety equipment contributed to the incident.
Port authorities or terminal operators: May be responsible for unsafe conditions at docks, piers, terminals, or loading areas.
Other crew members: Negligent actions by others on the job may contribute to an injury and become part of the liability analysis.

Identifying all liable parties is especially important in maritime cases, where a claim may involve the Jones Act, general maritime law, or third-party liability. An experienced maritime injury lawyer can help explain how these frameworks may apply and what steps are typically involved in building a strong claim.

Personal Injury Awards

Why Maritime Injury Claims Are Legally Complex

Maritime injury cases involve layers of legal and factual issues that go beyond standard workplace injury claims. These challenges often require careful analysis and early action to protect an injured worker’s rights:

Overlapping federal and state laws: Claims may involve the Jones Act, general maritime law, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and California regulations, each applying differently based on job duties and location.
Disputed worker classification: Employers and insurers frequently contest whether an injured worker qualifies as a “seaman” or falls under a different maritime or land-based system.
Multiple potentially liable parties: Vessel owners, employers, charterers, contractors, and equipment manufacturers may all share responsibility, depending on how the injury occurred.
Strict procedural requirements and deadlines: Maritime claims often involve unique notice, reporting, and filing rules that differ from standard personal injury cases.
Medical causation disputes: Insurers may argue that injuries are related to pre-existing conditions rather than the maritime incident itself.
Insurance coverage and indemnity issues: Maritime cases commonly involve layered insurance policies, contractual indemnity provisions, and coverage disputes that affect recovery.

Because of these factors, maritime injury claims require a disciplined, evidence-driven approach and familiarity with the legal frameworks that govern maritime work.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

Maritime injury claims are intended to secure the financial support an injured worker may need during recovery and beyond. The types of damages available depend on the circumstances of the injury and which maritime laws apply, but may include:

Economic Damages

These damages address the measurable financial losses caused by a maritime injury.

Medical expenses: Costs for emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.
Future medical care: Ongoing treatment, therapy, assistive care, or long-term medical support when injuries require continued care.
Lost wages: Income lost during time away from work due to injury or recovery.
Loss of future earning capacity: Compensation when an injury limits the ability to return to maritime work or perform similar employment.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages compensate for the personal impact of a maritime injury.

Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress related to the injury.
Mental anguish: Anxiety, depression, trauma, or other psychological effects following the incident.
Loss of enjoyment of life: Reduced ability to participate in daily activities or career opportunities.
Permanent disability or disfigurement: Long-term or catastrophic injuries that alter physical function or appearance.

Maintenance and Cure

Under general maritime law, qualifying maritime workers may be entitled to maintenance and cure, a no-fault benefit that covers:

Maintenance: Daily living expenses, such as food and housing, while the worker is unable to work.
Cure: Reasonable medical expenses related to treatment until maximum medical improvement is reached.

Accurately identifying and valuing these damages often requires medical records, employment documentation, and expert analysis, especially in cases involving long-term or permanent injuries.

California Deadlines for Maritime Injury Cases

Strict deadlines apply to maritime injury claims, and missing them can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation. While some maritime cases fall under California law, many are governed by federal maritime statutes, each with its own timing and procedural requirements.

In general, personal injury claims under California law must be filed within two years from the date of the injury. However, maritime claims, such as those brought under the Jones Act or general maritime law, often follow different rules. Claims involving government-owned vessels, port authorities, or public agencies may also be subject to shortened notice deadlines and additional administrative steps.

Speaking with a maritime injury lawyer as soon as possible helps protect critical evidence and ensure that all applicable deadlines are met. Contact us to request a free consultation and discuss your case today.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Maritime injury claims are not handled like typical workplace injury cases. Employers and insurers often move quickly to limit their exposure, raising disputes over fault, worker classification, and which laws apply. Without experienced legal guidance, injured maritime workers may face delayed benefits, denied claims, or pressure to accept less than what their injuries warrant.

Clarifying what laws and remedies apply: Maritime claims may involve different rules than standard California injury cases including the Jones Act, general maritime law, and related regulations,and early case assessment matters.
Handling insurer and employer tactics: We manage communications and push back when responsibility is disputed or shifted onto the injured worker.
Preserving critical evidence: Vessel records, maintenance history, incident reports, video, and witness accounts can be lost or overwritten without early action.
Accurately documenting the full impact of the injury: We build the claim around medical records, future care needs, and the real effect on earning capacity and the ability to work.
Preparing the case with trial in mind: We develop evidence and strategy from the start so the case is positioned for meaningful negotiation and ready for litigation if required.

Having the right legal team ensures that your case is handled properly and compensation is pursued with the seriousness, structure, and preparation it demands.

How to Choose the Right LA Maritime Injury Lawyer

Choosing legal representation after a maritime injury is a serious decision. These cases can involve specialized laws, significant financial exposure, and defendants who are experienced in fighting claims. When evaluating a maritime injury lawyer in Los Angeles, consider the following factors:

Does the firm handle maritime injury cases regularly?

Maritime claims are governed by laws such as the Jones Act and general maritime law, which differ from standard personal injury or workers’ compensation cases. Jacoby & Meyers has decades of experience handling serious injury matters, including claims involving vessels, ports, offshore operations, and maritime workers throughout California.

Do they have a proven track record and established credibility?

In serious injury cases, results and experience matter. Consider the firm’s longevity, the types of cases it has handled, and whether it has experience with complex liability disputes and high-damages claims.

Founded in 1972, Jacoby & Meyers has represented injured clients for more than 50 years and has recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements across serious personal injury matters.

Are they recognized by reputable organizations?

Recognition from established legal directories or peer-reviewed organizations can be one indicator of credibility and professional standing, alongside case experience and client feedback.

Our firm has been awarded and recognized by prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers, TopVerdict.com, and others.

How do fees and communication work?

Clear communication and transparent fee structures are essential. Many maritime injury firms, including Jacoby & Meyers, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients only pay attorney fees unless compensation is recovered. Note that some other legal fees may still have to be shouldered by the client throughout the case.

Are they prepared to go to trial if needed?

Many cases resolve without trial, but trial readiness can affect negotiation leverage. A firm should be able to explain how it prepares a case for litigation and what that means for strategy, evidence, and settlement discussions

We prepare injury cases with litigation in mind from the outset, allowing claims to be positioned for meaningful negotiation and, when necessary, courtroom litigation.

Taking the time to evaluate these factors can help ensure you choose legal representation equipped to protect your rights and pursue a fair outcome in a Los Angeles maritime injury case.

How Jacoby & Meyers Prepares Injury Cases for Settlement or Trial

Serious maritime injury cases require early action, detailed investigation, and a disciplined legal strategy. At Jacoby & Meyers, we do not treat these claims as routine. From the start, we build each case ready for any legal battle, whether in settlement negotiations or in court.

Our Firm’s Trial-Ready Approach

Early investigation and evidence preservation: We move quickly to secure vessel logs, maintenance records, incident reports, electronic data, and witness statements before key information is lost or altered.
Coordination with medical providers and appropriate experts: When needed, we work with medical professionals and vocational or economic experts to document the full scope of the injury, future care needs, and long-term impact on earning capacity.
Comprehensive damage documentation: We track past, current, and expected losses, including medical costs, lost income, reduced earning capacity, and non-economic harm.
Strategic, evidence-backed demand strategy: We prepare demand packages backed by records, expert support, and a clear theory of liability.
Readiness to pursue litigation and trial: If negotiations stall or fail to reflect the seriousness of the injury, we are prepared to file suit and proceed through litigation to protect our client’s interests.

This preparation-driven approach positions maritime injury cases to be taken seriously at every stage of the process.

What Are the Evidences You Need for Your Maritime Injury Claim

Strong evidence is critical in maritime injury cases, especially when an employer, vessel operator, or insurer disputes how the incident happened, questions fault, or argues over worker classification. Because maritime cases may involve federal law and multiple responsible parties, early documentation often plays a direct role in claim strength and case value.

unchecked Incident and accident reports: Reports prepared by an employer, vessel operator, supervisor, or port authority.

unchecked Vessel and safety records: Deck logs, maintenance and inspection records, safety manuals, and training or compliance documents.

unchecked Photos and video: Images of the vessel, equipment, work area, hazardous conditions, and visible injuries.

unchecked Medical records: Diagnosis, treatment history, work restrictions, and prognosis, including records showing ongoing care needs.

unchecked Employment and duty records: Job description, work schedules, pay records, and documentation of time spent aboard a vessel or fleet of vessels.

unchecked Witness statements: Accounts from crew members, supervisors, contractors, or anyone who saw the incident or knew of unsafe conditions.

unchecked Equipment documentation: Maintenance history, repair logs, inspection records, and manufacturer information for tools, machinery, or safety equipment involved.

Because some evidence may be controlled by employers or third parties, early action can help reduce the risk of loss, overwriting, or alteration. A maritime injury lawyer can identify what evidence matters most, take steps to preserve it, and ensure it is organized and used effectively to support the claim.

Why Choose Jacoby & Meyers

Maritime injury cases involve overlapping federal and maritime laws. Our firm has the experience and resources required to battle these challenges and pursue compensation.

Choosing our firm means choosing a team with:

Over 50 Years of Personal Injury Law Experience: More than five decades of experience representing injured clients across California in complex injury matters.
Available 24/7: Our team is accessible around the clock to answer questions, provide updates, and assist whenever you need us.
Client-Focused Support: With us, every case receives personalized attention. Client testimonials reflect our commitment to communication, responsiveness, and putting clients first.
No Upfront Attorney Cost to Start Your Case: Our team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation.

Client Stories

CAN JUST BE AN IMAGE OF THE REVIEW

The experiences of the people we represented reflect what clients can expect from Jacoby & Meyers.

“I had a great experience with Jacoby & Meyers. From the initial consultation to the final resolution of my case, the team was professional, responsive, and genuinely cared about my situation. They took the time to explain every step of the process, which really eased my concerns. I felt well-supported and informed throughout. Highly recommend their services! Thanks mostly to Bernabe Amanda. He was super fast and super responsive.”

Dario Damiani

“Taking a moment to acknowledge the diligence and hard work Yesica Ramirez and her team at Jacoby & Meyers have made during and currently in my case. Yesica has been professional and very patient with all of my questions and gave me clarity when I needed it. It can be easy to feel like you’re just one more in the many cases the team is working on. My hat’s off to Yesica and her team for making me feel that my case mattered and giving me the time to feel appreciated. In return, I take this moment to appreciate the great work Yesica has made in my case and if there’s any hesitation to try a big firm like Jacoby & Myers, reach out to Yesica Ramirez and she will guide you through every step and make sure you’re taken care of from beginning to end.”

Josue Ortega

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

Real Case Results That Reflect Meaningful Outcomes

Results matter in serious injury cases, especially when long-term medical care, lost income, and permanent disability are on the line. Jacoby & Meyers has recovered more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlement for injured people across California.

$2.8 Million – Wrongful death / drowning
$19 Million – Ride-share passenger v. Auto, resulting in quadriplegia
$17.5 Million – Bicycle v. Truck / Paraplegic
$13 Million – Wrongful Death v. City
$11.9 Million – Wrongful Death v. Truck
$11 Million – Motorcycle v. Truck, leading to paraplegia

Disclaimer: The results shown reflect past representations and are not necessarily representative of all cases handled by the firm.

Areas We Serve

While our main office is in Los Angeles, Jacoby & Meyers represents clients across Southern California and throughout the state. We serve injured people throughout Los Angeles County, including Long Beach, Santa Monica, Glendale, Santa Clarita, and Pomona. With 14 offices across California, experienced legal help is accessible when you need it.

Orange County
San Jose
San Francisco
San Diego
San Bernardino
Sacramento
Ontario
Oakland
Los Angeles
Fresno
Escondido
Brea
Bakersfield

Frequently Asked Questions About Maritime Injury Claims

What laws apply to maritime injury claims in Los Angeles?

Maritime injury claims may be governed by federal maritime law, including the Jones Act, general maritime law, or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, depending on the worker’s role and where the injury occurred. In some cases, California law may also be relevant. Determining which laws apply typically requires a review of job duties, work location, and the worker’s connection to a vessel or maritime operation.

What if my employer says I’m not a “seaman” under the Jones Act?

Seaman status is commonly disputed in maritime cases. Employers may argue that a worker does not qualify in order to limit available remedies. Classification often depends on factors such as the nature of the worker’s duties, time spent aboard a vessel or fleet of vessels, and whether the work contributes to the vessel’s mission. Employment records and work history are often critical to this analysis.

What if I was injured at the Port of Los Angeles or another harbor facility?

Injuries occurring at ports, docks, or terminals may involve multiple parties, including employers, vessel operators, terminal operators, or third-party contractors. Depending on the circumstances, claims may fall under federal maritime law, the LHWCA, or other legal frameworks. These cases often require investigation into who controlled the worksite and equipment involved.

What if I was partially at fault for the incident?

Fault may be disputed in maritime cases, but partial fault does not automatically prevent recovery. The effect of shared responsibility depends on which maritime laws apply and how negligence is evaluated under those rules. Evidence related to vessel condition, safety procedures, training, and supervision often plays a central role.

How long do maritime injury cases usually take?

Timelines vary based on the severity of the injury, the duration of medical treatment, disputed liability, the availability of evidence, and whether litigation is required. Some cases resolve through settlement, while others require formal litigation if the defense disputes responsibility or claim value.

Maritime Injury Lawyers You Can Rely On

If you were injured while working or navigating on California’s waters or at sea, understanding your legal rights is an important first step toward recovery. Jacoby & Meyers has a long history of fighting for victims of serious injuries and providing clear, straightforward legal guidance. Let us fight for you.

Call us now or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Maritime Lawyer Near Me

We serve the whole of California with 14 satellite offices. You can visit us at our Main Los Angeles Office at Ave of the Stars

Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Ave of the Stars Suite 1150S,
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Call us +12132960792

Fill out a form today for a free case assessment or give us a call to talk to a live legal expert.