What is considered "maintenance and cure"?
Maintenance and cure are no-fault benefits that injured seamen are entitled to under the Jones Act. These benefits include medical expenses and an allowance for day-to-day expenses. In many cases, an injured sailor may pursue additional or alternate compensation under other laws such as the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act or Long shore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. To qualify for maintenance and cure benefits, you must meet the following criteria: You are employed on a vessel that operates on navigable waters The injury occurred while you were on board the ship or in the scope of your employment Maintenance benefits cover your daily living expenses. These maintenance payments should be sufficient to cover: Food Rent Necessary utilities like water, electricity, and gas Homeowners insurance Cure benefits refer to the medical cost necessary to treat your injury. These expenses commonly include: Hospital and doctor bills Medication Medical tests Medical equipment such as crutches or a wheelchair