Like workers’ compensation for those who work on land, those who work in maritime and admiralty-related jobs, including crew boat workers, may be entitled to compensation for lost income and medical bills when they are injured. These sources of compensation include the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, the Jones Act, and the Unseaworthy Vessel Claim.
The Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides disabled longshore and harbor workers with medical coverage, compensation, and vocational rehabilitation services. The Jones Act, also referred to as the Merchant Marine Act, provides certain sailors with compensation when their illness or injury occurred while performing their duties. Unseaworthy vessel claims (also known as vessel negligence claims) provide those who were injured while working on a boat or vessel with compensation if the vessel was not seaworthy or was dangerous.
A knowledgeable Houma crew boat accident attorney can review the situation and determine what types of compensation may be available – and from whom.