What Should You Do If You Are Injured Offshore?
If you have a potential Jones Act or maritime injury claim, it's important that you take the appropriate steps from the very beginning to preserve your legal rights.
First, and most obviously, get the proper medical attention. You should choose your doctor yourself--you do not have to use a "company" doctor.
Second, report the accident in compliance with your company's policies and procedures. However, you should avoid given any recorded or written statements until you've consulted with a lawyer. Offshore companies, and the insurance companies that work with them, have lawyers they consult. You should too.
Third, if there were witnesses, you should get their names and contact information.
Fourth, and finally, some Jones Act employers and insurance companies will try to get you to settle your case cheaply and early, before you've had appropriate legal advice. The problem with these situations is that often, you won't know the true extent of injury and its impact on your ability to work in the future. You also won't know if the company is treating your claim fairly and offering a reasonable settlement offer. You should always get outside, independent advice from an experienced Jones Act or maritime injury lawyer if you suspect the Jones Act employer or its agents are trying to get you to settle cheaply without legal advice of your own.
Our firm helps Jones Act seaman and maritime workers with injury claims everyday. If you'd like a free consultation, you can contact us toll free, 877.724.7800, 24 hours per day.
