As a maritime worker, your life can be put in danger due to the unpredictable nature of the job. When you get injured, there are rules that help protect your right to compensation. Even in death, your family can receive compensation on your behalf. This helps protect you from being financially unstable due to your injuries. The lives of your dependents will greatly benefit from your settlement compensation.
If you were injured, you should get help with maritime claims. You can talk to maritime lawyers to guide you through the settlement claim process to ensure you are fairly compensated. Speak to them before you speak to your employer’s insurance company adjusters and your employer.
When The Jones Act Applies
The Jones Act applies to a maritime worker in cases of injury or death. The act allows injured workers to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Additionally, the Jones Act allows workers to collect punitive damages if their employer is found guilty of negligence. This helps ensure that maritime workers are fairly compensated for their injuries.
How The Jones Act Protects You
If your employer is found guilty of negligence you can receive a settlement for any damages. This helps ensure that maritime workers are fairly compensated for their injuries. The Jones Act protects injured maritime workers by allowing them to sue their employer for damages. Employees who are injured on the job can receive compensation for the following:
Medical Expenses
Injured workers may need to see a specialist or undergo physical therapy for their injuries. They may need prescription medicine, surgery, and other long-term healthcare services. All of these expenses can add up quickly, and the Jones Act helps ensure that injured workers receive fair compensation.
Lost Wages
Injured maritime workers may experience lost wages if they cannot work while recovering from their injury. In some cases, workers may be unable to return to work at all. Lost wages can be a significant hardship that causes maritime workers and their families to struggle financially. Fortunately, a maritime lawyer can help you get compensated for lost income.
Pain and Suffering
When you are injured, you may be dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other forms of emotional turmoil. You might be struggling with trauma that makes it difficult for you to return to work. Your attorney can estimate your pain and suffering damages.
Punitive Damages
If a maritime worker is injured due to the negligence of their employer, they may be able to receive punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to punish an employer for egregiously negligent actions. Employers should always pay attention to their crew’s safety and do everything possible to prevent injuries.
Common Examples Of Maritime Worker Injuries
Some examples of personal injuries that can happen to maritime workers include:
Slip And Fall Accidents
Workers could slip and fall on wet surfaces, oily puddles, or uneven surfaces. Slipping and falling can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones, fractures, joint dislocations, and more.
Struck By An Object
Injuries can occur if a loose object strikes a maritime worker. This can happen due to:
- Shifting cargo
- Fallng objects
- Falling debris
- Collisions
- Explosions
Exposure To Hazardous Materials
In some cases, workers may be exposed to hazardous materials without even knowing it. This can cause serious health problems that impact their quality of life. Health issues can include respiratory problems, irritated skin, and gastrointestinal issues.
Some common hazardous materials that maritime workers may be exposed to include:
- Oil
- Fumes
- Dust
- Chemicals
- Soot
Fires And Explosions
Maritime workers can be exposed to hazardous materials that can ignite and cause a fire or explosion. They may suffer from first, second, and third-degree burns that are incredibly painful and can cause severe injuries. Even if they survive, burns can cause serious scarring.
Collisions
A collision can occur when the boat collides with another, when the vessel is grounded, and other unpredictable circumstances. This can cause severe injuries.
Learn More About The Jones Act From an Attorney
Maritime lawyers can educate you on how you can apply the Jones Act to your situation. Call an attorney today to get help.