Philadelphia Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

If you work along the Delaware River—on docks, in shipyards, or loading cargo at the Port of Philadelphia—you may be covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). This federal law provides vital benefits to maritime workers injured on the job, even if they are not classified as traditional seamen.

The LHWCA applies to a wide range of maritime occupations that support Philadelphia’s port and shipping operations, including:

  • Longshoremen
  • Shipbuilders and ship repair workers
  • Dockworkers and crane operators
  • Cargo handlers and warehouse workers near navigable waters
  • Maintenance crews and marine construction workers

What Benefits Can I Receive Under the LHWCA?

Much like state Workers’ Compensation, the LHWCA provides essential benefits to support your physical recovery and financial well-being after a workplace injury. These benefits may include:

  • Medical care for job-related injuries or occupational illnesses.
  • Temporary or permanent disability benefits (total or partial).
  • Vocational rehabilitation, including retraining and job placement support.
  • Death benefits for surviving dependents if the injury results in fatality.

These benefits are administered through the U.S. Department of Labor and are designed to ensure injured maritime workers receive fair compensation without the need to prove employer fault.

How Is the LHWCA Different from Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation?

While Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation system covers most traditional jobs, it generally does not apply to injuries sustained on navigable waters or in maritime-related work zones. That’s where the LHWCA comes in.

Key differences include:

  • The LHWCA is federal law, and it specifically covers maritime workers injured on or near navigable waters (such as the Delaware River).
  • It provides no-fault coverage, but operates separately from state compensation systems.
  • Some workers may qualify for dual benefits in rare cases (LHWCA and state WC), but the process is complex.

If you’ve been hurt while working on docks, vessels, or shipyards in the Philadelphia area, your claim likely falls under federal jurisdiction, not Pennsylvania law.

Can I Sue My Employer for a Maritime Injury?

In most cases, if you are covered by the LHWCA, you cannot sue your employer directly for a work-related injury. This is part of the “exclusive remedy” rule—by receiving LHWCA benefits, you give up the right to pursue a traditional personal injury lawsuit against your employer.

However, you may be able to file a third-party liability claim if someone other than your employer contributed to your injury. This could include:

  • A subcontractor.
  • A negligent equipment manufacturer.
  • Another vessel operator.

A Philadelphia Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation lawyer can investigate your accident and identify any additional sources of compensation.

What Should I Do After a Maritime Work Injury in Philadelphia?

If you’ve been injured while working along the Delaware River or in a maritime setting, take the following steps immediately:

  1. Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible (ideally within 30 days).
  2. Seek medical attention immediately—even if your injury seems minor.
  3. Document the incident—take photos, gather witness names, and note the exact location.
  4. Avoid signing documents from your employer or insurer without legal advice.
  5. Contact an experienced LHWCA lawyer to protect your rights and guide your claim.

Why Choose Freedman & Lorry, P.C.?

For more than 75 years, Freedman & Lorry, P.C. has fought for injured maritime workers in Philadelphia and throughout the region. We understand the unique hazards dock and harbor workers face every day—and the complex legal challenges that follow a serious injury.

Senior Shareholder Scott A. Portner, Esq. brings over 30 years of experience handling LHWCA claims. Known for his work with labor unions and maritime workers, Scott tailors legal strategies to each client’s needs—whether it’s filing a claim, negotiating a settlement, or litigating denied benefits.

Experienced Philadelphia Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C.

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury at the Port of Philadelphia or along the Delaware River, you may be entitled to federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation benefits. Attorney Scott A. Portner, Esq. of Freedman & Lorry, P.C. has extensive experience handling Philadelphia Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation claims. He is committed to securing the benefits you deserve. Call him directly at 215-931-2564, call our firm at 888-999-1962, or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.