Working at sea comes with unique risks. If you get hurt while working on a vessel, you have legal protections that can help you recover compensation. Maritime law provides several avenues for injured seamen to receive medical care and lost wages.
The Jones Act and your right to compensation
The Jones Act allows injured seamen to sue their employers for negligence. Unlike workers’ compensation on land, this law lets you recover damages if your employer fails to provide a safe work environment. You must prove that the employer’s negligence contributed to your injury, even slightly. Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Maintenance and cure benefits
Regardless of fault, you are entitled to maintenance and cure benefits. Maintenance covers your daily living expenses while you recover, and cure pays for your medical treatment. These benefits continue until you reach maximum medical improvement. If an employer refuses to pay, you can take legal action to enforce your rights.
Unseaworthiness claims
A vessel owner must keep the ship in a seaworthy condition. If faulty equipment, inadequate safety measures, or an unsafe work environment cause your injury, you can file an unseaworthiness claim. This claim is separate from the Jones Act and does not require proof of employer negligence.
Seeking damages for long-term injuries
Some maritime injuries have lasting effects that impact your ability to work. If your injury leads to a permanent disability, you may be entitled to additional compensation. This can include future lost wages, ongoing medical treatment, and rehabilitation costs.
If you suffer an injury while working at sea, maritime law provides options to protect your rights. Understanding these laws ensures you get the support and compensation you deserve.
