Can I be fired or blacklisted for pursuing a recovery for a maritime injury?

Many workers shy away from filing legitimate maritime injury claims when they are hurt because they are afraid that nobody in the industry will hire them again. This practice is often called “blacklisting” or “blackballing,” and it is an illegal practice. It is against the law for any employer or prospective employer to take negative action against an employee for filing an injury claim.

Don’t Let Fear Stand in The Way of Your Maritime Injury Claim

The maritime industry relies on the fear of a blacklist in order to prevent workers from filing claims. The fewer the claims, the less the company pays in benefits—and the greater the likelihood that the employee will be forced to continue working. The truth is that as long as your claim is legitimate, you should file it with impunity and with the expectation that you will recover the damages that you need and deserve.

By filing a claim, you and your attorney may secure:

• Fair payment. You have a right to be paid for your medical costs, income losses, and any out-of-pocket expenses related to your accident. You may even be entitled to punitive damages in a maritime case if your employer withheld your rightful payments.
• Future compensation. Many injured employees will carry lifelong physical limitations that will prevent them from earning a living in the future. An injury claim not only provides benefits for past losses—it can also provide compensation that allows you and your family to survive if you are unable to return to work.
• Improved conditions. Negligence in the workplace is likely to continue as long as an employer can get away with it. By holding an employer accountable for unsafe conditions, faulty equipment, or improper training, you can help ensure that your injury does not happen to someone else.

If you think that your employer is retaliating against you or you have questions about your right to compensation, please contact us online as soon as possible. Our New York and New Jersey maritime accident lawyers will give you an honest opinion about whether your maritime injury claim will hurt your chances of working again. Call us today at 1-800-362-9329 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.