Jones Act coverage allows workers who suffer maritime injuries to pursue compensation for on-the-job injuries. This coverage is an alternative to worker’s compensation, something typically not available to maritime workers.
A serious injury aboard a maritime vessel can result in extensive pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages. Negligence can happen anywhere, and when it happens offshore or on a dock, you deserve compensation and justice for your injury.
Navigating the Jones Act and what it covers is easier with a Louisiana Jones Act Lawyer by your side. They can represent your best interests as you focus on your recovery.
Understanding the Jones Act
This century-old law designed to protect seamen focuses on domestic ships that travel between U.S. ports. The work aboard a vessel in navigation is challenging and not without risks.
The Jones Act allows maritime workers injured on the job to sue their employer directly for compensation. Maritime workers are one of the few classes of employees in Louisiana who are not eligible for the standard worker’s compensation route afforded to others.
Pursuing possible compensation via the Jones Act is a seaman’s best option for seeking damages. If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury due to an accident while working aboard a Jones Act vessel on navigable waters, pursuing compensation is your right under the Jones Act.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientAbout Jones Act Coverage
The Jones Act is a federal law that provides legal protections and allows injured sailors to recover compensation if they are hurt in the course of their maritime employment. Here are some key points about Jones Act coverage:
Eligibility
The Jones Act covers seamen who spend at least 30% of their work time aboard navigable vessels. This includes commercial sailors, offshore oil rig workers, longshore workers, and others employed on ships, barges, offshore platforms, etc.
Negligence Claims
Under the Jones Act, injured workers can file negligence claims against their employers to recover damages if their injuries were caused by the maritime employer’s negligence or the vessel’s unseaworthiness.
Types of Recoverable Damages
Jones Act seamen may be able to recover compensation for past and future economic damages like medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Maintenance and Cure
Injured sailors are entitled to pay “maintenance” for living expenses and “cure” for medical costs related to their injuries until they reach maximum recovery. You may not be double compensated for these expenses should you pursue a negligence claim.
A maritime injury attorney can guide you and help you decide your best course of action if you’ve been hurt as an offshore worker or in another qualifying maritime job.
Time Limits
Jones Act claims have a three-year statute of limitations, meaning the case must be filed within three years of the date of injury. However, maintenance and cure must be promptly paid upon injury.
Jones Act coverage allows seamen more favorable rights and remedies compared to regular workers’ compensation laws that limit claims against employers and vessel owners. It’s a critical protection for maritime workers injured on the job.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientTypes of Maritime Careers and Possible Injuries
A maritime career is often hard yet rewarding work. Like most careers, it is not without risks. If you suffer a serious injury, you have legal options.
The Jones Act applies to a variety of maritime careers, including:
- Boat captains and crew
- Oil rig workers
- Ferry tour guides
- Fishermen
These are just a few examples of the types of careers that may result in a serious accident due to the nature of the work. Working in or around the water involves slippery surfaces, moving equipment, and other dangers. The following types of accidents can result in potentially career-ending harm:
- Brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Broken bones
- Burns
This is not a complete list of the types of injuries possible. If you were seriously injured while performing your job, a Louisiana maritime injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientGathering Evidence to Assist with Your Injury Claim
To pursue compensation, you must prove that the defendant employed you at the time of your accident. Gathering evidence, such as your work records, accident scene photos, witness contact information, and medical reports, can assist us in preparing your case.
An insurance company may reach out with a settlement offer. While it is understandable to feel concerned about your medical bills and loss of income, it is important that you not accept an initial settlement offer.
If you accept their settlement offer, you may lose your right for possible future compensation. This may prevent you from receiving the medical care you need if your condition worsens.
The insurance company wants to protect its best interests and the best interests of its client—the defendant in your case. Do not speak with insurance companies and secure legal representation, as this is the best way to avoid accepting less than you deserve.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientCall Today to Learn More About Jones Act Insurance Coverage
Jones Act coverage allows injured seamen to pursue compensation for work-related injuries. The standard workers’ compensation may not apply to your accident; however, know that the option of the Jones Act exists.
If you are a maritime employee and suffered a serious injury that delays or prevents your return to your career, we can help you. At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, our maritime lawyers represent offshore workers who experience harm on the job with no upfront cost. You only pay if we recover compensation on your behalf.
Contact us today for a free consultation with no obligation. Let us help you fight for the fair compensation you need and deserve.
