If you work as a seafarer or mariner and were injured at work, you have a right to file for compensation under the Jones Act. However, doing the wrong things can lead to common Jones Act case mistakes. Find out what you should and should not do during your case.
Hiring an attorney who’s unfamiliar with maritime law and Jones Act law can be incredibly detrimental to your case. When it comes to lawyers, one size doesn’t fit all. There are different kinds of lawyers with different skill sets. When you speak with a law firm, ask how much of their business comes from maritime law cases.
Failing to report the injury soon enough is an unfortunate mistake we see happen quite often. Many times workers shrug off their injuries or are pressured to keep quiet until they get off the hitch. You should report an injury and file a boating accident report as soon as the injury occurs. Though you may be eager to finish out the hitch so that you’re fully compensated, working with an injury can make it even worse and can impact your ability to recoup benefits.
Signing papers after your boat accident injury can be a crucial mistake. If your employer asks you to sign any documents other than your accident report, don’t. You could be signing away your ability to file a claim. Speak with a maritime lawyer before signing anything.
If you are a maritime worker and were involved in an injury offshore or on the river, you need legal advice right away to avoid making mistakes. Contact a New Orleans Jones Act lawyer from The Young Firm today at 504-680-4100 and request your free publications.
