Surgery for a Marine Diesel Mechanic

Scott Abbott loved his job as a marine diesel mechanic. On July 31, 2006, Scott was working in the hull of a fishing vessel when he lifted a 100 pound forward clutch pack/drum assembly and injured his back. While recovering from this injury, Scott returned to work where he slipped on ice and fell. This second accident aggravated his prior back injury and made it impossible for him to continue his daily routine.  Scott learned he would need to undergo surgery and his doctors told him he could no longer do the job he loved.

His Case

Scott’s employer rejected his claims on August 5, 2008, arguing he could work following his first injury and the second injury never occurred. Scott’s employer and its insurance company were saying they knew better than Scott’s doctors and his surgery was not related to his injuries.

Even though the insurance company wasn’t paying, Scott kept trying to get better.  On his own, he had the back surgery and did physical therapy.  Scott even started his own business operating a crane truck, which accommodated his substantial physical restrictions.

As the medical bills mounted and he wasn’t making enough to pay for his family’s living expenses, Scott was trying to find an attorney to take on his case.  After a long search for a firm who could handle his Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act claim, Scott spoke with Amie Peters, an attorney at the Law Office of William D. Hochberg and she agreed to take the case.  Amie worked to get Scott a hearing before the Office of Administrative Law Judges to get the insurance company to pay what was owed to Scott and ultimately a settlement.

Our Success

Team Hochberg negotiated with the insurance company reaching a settlement that provided Scott with a monthly annuity to help with monthly living expenses for the rest of Scott’s life, a lump sum to pay off debts and payment for Scott’s medical bills.