Workplace injuries are quite common and can occur at virtually any place of employment. For those people who work at sea, addressing workplace injury is a different process.
In when endeavoring to make a successful claim, it can be beneficial to understand what the process entails. There are a few important considerations for injured maritime workers to think about.
Claim types
It is critical for maritime workers to understand that their work injuries are different from others. While workers’ compensation laws of the state govern regular work-related injuries, maritime law and the Jones Act typically govern workers’ injuries at sea. Therefore, the claim types that maritime workers would use are typically different. The award amounts are also different. However, the claimant must be sure to file the right claim type. A knowledgeable attorney can be helpful in making this determination.
Maintenance and cure
Maintenance and cure can be very important issues for injured maritime workers. Such benefits could help to cover the expenses that employees incur due to the incident, to help them stay afloat financially while they recover. Maintenance covers daily living expenses, while cure pays for medical expenses, including the following:
- Hospital stays
- Physician visits
- Surgeries
- Medical devices
Statute of limitations
As with most other claims, there is a statute of limitations on how long people have to file claims related to maritime injuries. In the case of an injury while working at sea, employees typically have three years to file. In cases where it takes longer for the injury to develop, it may be possible to extend the time frame. In such cases, an attorney can be helpful in securing the additional time and arguing the case.
This is only a brief overview of important elements in the claims process for injured maritime workers. Someone who is considering making a case should take some time to review the relevant laws and consult with a professional.