Maritime Injuries

Injuries on the water are compensable and the injured person can collect lost wages, medical bills, and money damages for future lost wages, permanent injuries and pain and suffering.

Recreational Injuries On The Water

These injuries such as boating accidents, water skiing accidents, jet ski accidents and swimming accidents are generally covered by the negligence law of the state where the injury occurred and are compensable.

Work Related Maritime Injuries

These injuries are covered by federal law that include the Jones Act and other federal maritime law that classifies the injure worker as a seaman.

The Jones Act is a federal law that provides much needed protection to seamen who risk their lives facing the perils of the seas. It provides a remedy for maritime workers who suffer a maritime injury while in service to a vessel on navigable waters as a result of the negligence of their employer or a fellow crewmember. When the law was first written, the legislature could not anticipate the developments and changes that would take place in the maritime industry. As a result, the courts have interpreted the law and filled in the gaps that existed in its coverage.

When a seamen is injured on the job, he may be entitle dot recover certain benefits. One type of maritime law benefits are remedies like maintenance and cure and claims for the unseaworthy conditions on a vessel. Another type of benefit is a claim under the Jones Act.

The Jones Act applies to seamen who are injured while working in service to a vessel. Under the Jones Act, an injured seaman may sue his employer when the negligent acts of a member of the crew contributed to his injury. It is important to know who qualifies as a Jones Act seaman, what structures are considered to be Jones Act vessels, and what rights are protected under the Jones Act.

If you or a loved one is a victim of a maritime injury, call the experienced lawyers at Karns Law Group now at (401) 841-5300. The initial consultation is free of charge there is no fee until we are successful. Protect your rights by contacting the Karns Law Group today.

The above is not legal advice. That can only come from a qualified attorney who is familiar with all the facts and circumstances of a particular, specific case and the relevant law. See Terms of Use.