You love sailing and being on the open ocean, but it’s a dangerous environment. There are hazards to the job, just like there are dangers no matter where you work.
If you get hurt at work, there are potentially a number of ways that you can obtain compensation.
Injury claims through the Jones Act
You may be able to file a claim through the Jones Act, which can help you’re docked at a port. The Jones Act is a federal law, which makes it possible to sue if seamen are hurt on the job as a result of negligence on the part of the company, shipmaster, crew members or vessel owners.
By federal law, you are protected whenever you file a lawsuit for an injury that has been suffered as a result of your job on a vessel or while performing work related to the vessel. The Jones Act may allow you to sue if you develop an illness while working aboard a vessel.
If your employer provides an insurance plan or you need to make a claim with your own insurance plan, it’s a good idea to speak with your attorney first. Special rules and laws apply to maritime workers. If you are unsure which benefits you are eligible to receive or need assistance, consider consulting with a maritime injury attorney.