If you are a maritime worker who has been injured offshore, you are protected by law and entitled to compensation. The steps you take after an injury will affect how quickly a maritime injury lawyer can resolve your case and secure the compensation you and your family deserve.
This article covers:
- Who qualifies as a maritime worker for offshore injury claims.
- What you are entitled to after a maritime injury.
- The most common offshore injury claims handled by maritime attorneys.
- Exactly what to do after an offshore injury to ensure you receive your benefits.
Laws that Protect Injured Seamen and Maritime Workers
Maritime workers, including any seamen employed or contracted by a ship or shipping company that spend at least 30% of their working hours on a ship or offshore vessel, are protected by the Jones Act. If you fit this description, you are entitled to significant legal protections after an injury.
Shore-based employees who are injured aboard a ship or while working at a port or harbor may not qualify as seamen under the Jones Act, but would still protected by the Longshore and Harbor Worker Compensation Act (LHWCA) if not classified as seamen. If this is your situation, please contact us or learn more here.
Your Rights Following an Offshore Injury
If you qualify under the Jones Act, you:
- Have the right to receive immediate medical treatment.
- May qualify for “maintenance and cure,” a daily living allowance and coverage of medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault for your injury.
- May be eligible to pursue a full injury claim under the Jones Act or general maritime law if employer negligence or vessel unseaworthiness was involved.
- Have the right to choose your own doctor — not just the one selected by your employer.
Jones Act Maintenance and Cure: Your Immediate Rights
Even before a lawsuit is filed, injured seamen are automatically entitled to “maintenance and cure.” Maintenance covers daily living expenses while you’re unable to work, and cure refers to your medical treatment. These benefits ensure that injured maritime workers can focus on healing without the significant added burden of financial stress.
Employers are required to provide these benefits regardless of fault, and their failure to do so can result in additional penalties under maritime law, including attorneys’ fees and punitive damages. A maritime lawyer can help enforce these rights if an employer delays or denies payment.
“Maritime workers have legal protections that are stronger than many realize, including the right to sue employers under federal statutes like the Jones Act.”
Common Maritime Injuries Handled by Offshore Injury Lawyers
The most common range of offshore injury claims we see as maritime lawyers include:
- Slip-and-falls on deck
- Equipment malfunctions
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Crush injuries and amputations
These injuries often result in long-term disabilities or significant time off work. Knowing your rights ensures that you are able to pursue just compensation. Working with an experienced maritime injury attorney is essential to building a strong case and protecting your future.
How a Maritime Injury Lawyer Can Help
Whether you are dealing with uncooperative employers or insurance companies, a maritime injury lawyer can advocate for your rights. They will evaluate your claim, gather evidence, and help prove negligence or unseaworthiness. An experienced attorney understands the complexities of maritime law, including how to handle disputes over vessel ownership, employment status, and jurisdiction.
They can also negotiate settlements, represent you in court if necessary, and ensure that your claim is filed within the required legal timeframes. With the right legal guidance, you significantly improve your chances of receiving the full compensation you are legally entitled to.
If you’re looking for help, please learn more about working with maritime injury attorneys here or contact us directly.
Your Legal Options After a Maritime Accident
After an accident, take these steps to protect your health and maximize your chances at timely resolution and fair compensation:
- Report your injury immediately. Notify your supervisor or captain right away. Delays in reporting your injury can hurt your claim.
- Seek medical treatment. Get checked by a doctor promptly and keep all medical records.
- Document everything. Take photos of the scene and injuries, get contact information from witnesses, and obtain the accident report.
- Consult a maritime injury lawyer near you. An experienced maritime attorney can explain your rights and guide you through the claims process.
- Know your legal options. If your injury was due to unsafe conditions or negligence, you can file a claim under the Jones Act. A skilled maritime lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Let a Top-Rated Maritime Lawyer Manage Your Offshore Injury Claim
If you’ve been injured while working at sea, don’t wait to protect your rights. At BoatLaw, LLP, our experienced maritime attorneys are dedicated to helping seamen secure the compensation they deserve. Whether you need clarification on whether you qualify under the Jones Act or help navigating complex maritime claims, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation and expert legal advice tailored to your situation.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. The information on this website is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Legal outcomes and laws can vary by jurisdiction, and only a qualified lawyer can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
Douglas R. Williams was raised in a military family. After retiring from the armed forces, his father sailed as the chief medical officer with many of the most popular cruise lines, including Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. When not in school, Doug spent a good part of his youth in the crew quarters sailing with his father on cruise ships. He developed a practical knowledge of the maritime industry from a young age. Learn More here.
