Maritime law covers seamen and offshore workers who spend significant time working on a vessel in navigation. If you’re an offshore worker injured while on the job, you may be eligible for compensation under the Jones Act or other maritime laws.

The Jones Act allows injured offshore workers to sue their employer for negligence, providing compensation for medical expenses, pain, suffering, lost wages, and more. It also provides maintenance and cure, which ensures you receive living expenses and medical care while you recover from your injury.

Offshore injury law covers a wide range of injuries, including slip and falls, chemical burns, head injuries, spinal injuries, and trauma from falling overboard. Additionally, illnesses like hearing loss, heart disease, asbestosis, and lead poisoning can be covered if caused or aggravated by unsafe working conditions.

Offshore injury claims can be filed in federal court or state court, depending on the nature of your claim. Claims under the Jones Act are typically filed in federal court, but other maritime law claims may be filed in state courts. Our team will guide you on where to file and help you through the process.

It’s crucial to file your claim as soon as possible, as there is a statute of limitations for maritime injury cases. Typically, you have 3 years from the date of the injury or when you become aware of the injury and its cause to file a claim. For Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) claims, the statute of limitations is also 3 years from the date of death.

An experienced offshore injury lawyer understands the complexities of maritime law, including Jones Act claims, unseaworthiness, and maintenance and cure. We know how employers and insurers try to downplay injuries and offer low settlements. Hiring a lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Compensation depends on the severity of your injury and the impact it has on your life. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future earning capacity. Our team will fight for your full compensation, considering both your current and potential future losses.

Maintenance refers to the living expenses that the injured offshore worker is entitled to during recovery, such as rent, utilities, and food. Cure refers to the medical expenses and transportation for necessary treatment. Employers are required to provide both maintenance and cure until the worker reaches maximum medical improvement.

First, fill out an injury report immediately, making sure to describe all unsafe working conditions that led to the injury. Document everything as thoroughly and accurately as possible. Avoid speaking to insurance agents or employers without consulting a maritime injury lawyer, as they may try to manipulate your statement to minimize their liability.

Yes, you can file a claim under the Jones Act even if the vessel was docked, as long as the vessel was in navigation (i.e., capable of movement). The vessel doesn’t need to be in motion, but it must be deemed seaworthy. If the conditions on the vessel contributed to your injury, you have the right to file a claim for damages.