What Kinds of Damages Are Awarded in a Jones Act Lawsuit?
When a Gulf Coast seaman is injured on the job, he or she may be entitled to special benefits under the Jones Act. In order to qualify, the seaman must be primarily connected to a vessel or fleet of vessels, and his or her duties must contribute to the mission of the vessel. In addition, it must be proven that the injury was at least in part the fault of the employer or another employee.
Once these requirements are met, the Jones Act offers legal protections not available to many other American workers. If a Jones Act lawsuit is filed, damages can be awarded. Damages are, simply put, the loss the injured person suffered as a result of the injury. Here are the main types of Jones Act damages:
Pain and Suffering: Depending on the type and severity of your injury, your Jones Act lawsuit may contain damages for past and future pain and suffering. Because this is a difficult thing to put an exact dollar amount on, you and your doctors, friends or family members may be called on to testify.
Medical Expenses: Hospital care, medication and surgery all cost a great deal. While a Jones Act seaman may have medical insurance, the entire cost associated with the injury is rarely covered.
Loss of Wages/Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injury prevents you from working for any period of time, you could receive damages for lost wages. This would include any pay you would normally receive if on the job. In addition, if you return to your job or another job and cannot earn the same amount as before the injury, you may also be awarded damages for the difference in your earnings.
Fringe Benefits: This type of damage includes on-the-job meals, retirement, health insurance and disability insurance. If your injury makes it impossible to continue working doing heavy tasks, you may lose these benefits. Damages can cover this situation.
If you or a loved one has been injured working as a Jones Act seaman, you have the right to sue your employer. For this, you will need legal representation. The Louisiana-based Young Firm has over 50 years of experience representing people like you. While we are located on the Gulf Coast, we take cases anywhere in the United States.
Please give us a call toll free today at 866-938-6113 and get started with your recovery. Also, order one of our free books, Maritime Injury Law and 6 Secrets Your Company May Not Tell You When You Get Injured Offshore.
