California’s busy harbors and ports are the backbone of global trade, handling millions of containers and commercial ships every year. While these workplaces are vital to the economy, they are also some of the most dangerous environments for workers, longshoremen, contractors, and even visitors. Harbor and port accidents often lead to severe or fatal injuries, leaving victims and their families struggling to recover.

If you or a loved one has been injured at a California harbor or port, you may be entitled to significant compensation under maritime and port injury laws.

Common Causes of Harbor and Port Injuries

Harbors and ports are filled with heavy machinery, large vessels, and constant movement of cargo. Common causes of injuries include:

• Crane and cargo-loading accidents
• Slip, trip, and fall accidents on wet or uneven docks
• Forklift and heavy equipment collisions
• Falling containers or unsecured cargo
• Exposure to toxic chemicals during cargo handling
• Drowning or near-drowning accidents
• Fires and explosions from flammable materials
• Unsafe working conditions due to poor training or oversight

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), maritime and port workers face higher-than-average risks of workplace injuries. Learn more here: https://www.osha.gov/maritime

Who May Be Liable in a Harbor or Port Injury?

Determining liability in harbor and port accidents can be complicated because multiple entities are often involved. Responsible parties may include:

• Employers or contractors for failing to provide safe working conditions
• Shipping companies for unsafe cargo handling practices
• Harbor or port authorities for dangerous premises conditions
• Equipment manufacturers for defective cranes, forklifts, or machinery
• Other third parties working on-site

In some cases, injured workers may be covered under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), a federal law providing compensation for maritime employees injured on navigable waters or adjoining areas. Learn more here: https://www.dol.gov/owcp/dlhwc/lsfaqs.htm

Steps to Take After a Harbor or Port Accident

1. Report the injury immediately to your supervisor or port authority.
2. Seek immediate medical treatment, even for seemingly minor injuries.
3. Document the accident scene with photos or videos.
4. Collect witness statements and contact information.
5. Keep copies of employment records, incident reports, and medical bills.
6. Contact a harbor and port injury lawyer to protect your rights.

How Hillstone Law Can Help

Harbor and port accidents involve complex layers of state, federal, and maritime law. At Hillstone Law, we have the knowledge and resources to investigate port-related accidents, determine liability, and fight for maximum compensation.

We represent dockworkers, longshoremen, contractors, and visitors who have suffered serious injuries, helping them recover damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Disability and long-term care needs
• Wrongful death claims for families of lost loved ones

If you or a loved one has suffered a harbor or port injury in California, don’t face this battle alone.