If you were injured while loading, unloading, or working around a vessel, reporting your injury the right way is crucial to protect your rights under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).
Below is a clear, lawyer-approved process to make sure you don’t lose benefits.
1️⃣ Step 1 – Notify Your Supervisor Immediately
- Report the injury as soon as possible — ideally the same shift.
- Give the date, time, location, and cause of the accident.
- If your employer refuses to write a report, make your own written notice (keep a copy).
⚠️ You generally have 30 days to report your injury to preserve your rights.
2️⃣ Step 2 – Complete Form LS-201 (Notice of Employee Injury)
- Obtain the LS-201 form from your employer, the U.S. Department of Labor (OWCP), or download it online.
- Fill in your personal information, job title, employer name, and a short description of the incident.
- Submit it to your employer and keep a dated copy for your records.
3️⃣ Step 3 – Choose Your Own Doctor
Under the LHWCA, you may choose your treating physician (you’re not limited to the company doctor).
- Select an authorized doctor familiar with maritime injuries.
- Provide the doctor’s information to your employer for approval.
- Keep every medical record, diagnostic test, and referral.
4️⃣ Step 4 – File Form LS-203 (Claim for Compensation)
- If you miss more than three days of work, or medical bills aren’t paid, file Form LS-203.
- Send it to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) district office handling your port area.
- You must file within one year of the date of injury (or last payment of compensation).
5️⃣ Step 5 – Cooperate With the Claims Examiner
Once OWCP receives your claim, a claims examiner will contact you.
Provide all requested information and attend any scheduled independent medical exam (IME).
If disputes arise, your attorney can request a formal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.
6️⃣ Step 6 – Document Everything
Keep a personal injury file that includes:
- Copies of all forms (LS-201, LS-203, LS-207)
- Pay stubs and employment records
- Medical bills and doctor notes
- Photos of equipment or hazards
- Names of supervisors and witnesses
7️⃣ Step 7 – Consult an LHWCA Attorney Early
Longshore claims can become complicated — especially when the vessel or terminal operator may also be responsible under § 905(b).
An experienced maritime lawyer can:
- File all paperwork correctly and on time
- Deal with insurance adjusters and defense counsel
- Preserve evidence from terminals or ships before it disappears
📞 Call (713) 224-6622 for a free case review with Gilman & Allison, LLP.
