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Longshore Workers Claims

Who pays for my injury if I work for a subcontractor?

Typically, your direct employer (subcontractor) is liable, but if they are uninsured or negligent, liability may extend to the main contractor or port operator under Georgian labor laws.

Can I sue if the injury was partly my fault?

Yes, under Georgian law, compensation may be reduced but not necessarily denied if there was contributory negligence, unless it was gross negligence or intentional.

Does the US Longshore Act apply in Georgia?

Generally no, but if you are working for a US company or on a project with specific jurisdictional ties to the US, LHWCA might be relevant. Consult a lawyer to check.

What if my employer fires me after an injury?

Firing an employee solely due to a workplace injury or disability is illegal discrimination under the Georgian Labour Code. You can sue for reinstatement and compensation.

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Port workers and dockers perform one of the toughest and riskiest jobs in the maritime industry. "Longshore Workers Claims" refer to legal disputes related to injuries sustained during cargo handling in ports, terminals, and on decks. In Georgia, with active ports in Poti and Batumi, labor safety and rights protection for dockers is a relevant issue. This service covers both local labor disputes and compensations under international regulations (e.g., US Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act - LHWCA, if relevant) if the incident involves a foreign vessel or jurisdiction.

What does Longshore Workers Rights protection cover?

Lawyers assist port employees in the following areas:

  • Workplace Injuries: Claiming compensation for injuries sustained on the job (falls, falling cargo, equipment failure).
  • Third-Party Liability: Lawsuits against shipowners if the docker's injury was caused by crew negligence or vessel malfunction (distinct from employer liability).
  • Occupational Diseases: Compensation for long-term health damage (e.g., working with hazardous substances, noise, vibration).
  • Social Guarantees: Assistance in obtaining disability pensions and medical insurance reimbursement.

Common Situations

Docker activities involve specific risks:

  • Crane Accident: A crane cable snapped during container loading, injuring workers. Liability may lie with the port (maintenance failure) or the crane manufacturer.
  • Fall on Deck: A docker was injured on deck due to a slippery surface. This provides grounds for a lawsuit against the shipowner (third-party claim).
  • Chemical Poisoning: Violation of safety norms while handling Dangerous Goods.

Georgian Legislation and Regulations

In Georgia, dockers' rights are regulated by the Labour Code of Georgia and the Organic Law on Occupational Safety. These laws oblige the employer (port/terminal) to ensure a safe working environment and insure employees against accidents. If an injury occurs on board a foreign vessel, international maritime law norms and shipowner civil liability may apply.

Service Process

Legal assistance includes:

  1. Incident Documentation: Drafting an accident report, collecting medical records and witness statements.
  2. Identifying Liable Party: Determining who to claim compensation from — the employer (port) or a third party (ship/cargo company).
  3. Negotiation: Communicating with the insurance company to obtain maximum reimbursement.
  4. Litigation: Defending interests in court regarding labor disputes or civil damage compensation.

Why Legal.ge?

Port workers are often uninformed about their rights and settle for minimum compensation. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers who know the specifics of port operations and safety standards. We will help you receive full compensation for treatment and rehabilitation, as well as moral damages.

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