According to the Legal Information Institute, Jones Act coverage allows maritime workers 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 maritime personal injury 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 maritime vessel is challenging and not without risks.
The Jones Act allows maritime workers injured on the job to sue their employer directly for compensation. According to the International Risk Management Institute, an injured worker may still have legal options to sue even if the accident was due to their own actions.
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 “seamen’s” best option for seeking damages.
If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury due to an accident while working aboard a vessel or on a dock, pursuing compensation is your right under the Jones Act.
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Types 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 personal injury attorney familiar with Louisiana and maritime law can help you pursue compensation.
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Gathering Evidence to Assist with Your Injury Claim
To pursue compensation, you must prove that you were employed by the defendant at the time of your accident. Gathering evidence such as your work records, accident scene photos, witness contact information, and your 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.
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Call Today to Learn More About Jones Act Insurance Coverage
Maritime careers are a large part of the Louisiana workforce. More than 70,000 work in the maritime industry, contributing to the state’s status as a major shipyard state.
If you are a part of this workforce and suffered a serious injury that delays—or prevents—your return to your career, we can help you. Every case is different. We will not stop until we secure the best outcome possible for your specific case.
Jones Act coverage allows seaman to pursue compensation for on-the-job injuries. The standard workers’ compensation may not apply to your accident, however, know that the option of the Jones Act exists.
You must act quickly when it comes to filing your case. Our team needs time to prepare your case for negotiation and for a possible trial. The sooner you contact us, the faster we can get to work for you.
The types of compensation you may receive are your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, we represent maritime workers who experience harm on the job.
Let us help you fight for the compensation you need and deserve. To learn more, call us now for a free case evaluation at (337) 777-7777.
Get The HelpYou Need(337) 777-7777To Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION
24 hours a day • 7 days a week
