Q: Do I have to give a formal statement after I am injured?

Posted by: rzehl
May 12, 2008
Topic: Maritime & Jones Act FAQ

A: No, the Jones Act does not require seamen to give a recorded statement to their employer or its insurance representatives. While it is definitely a good idea to report the incident immediately to your employer in compliance with company policy, you are not required to give a formal statement. In fact, any demand to the contrary by your employer should be treated with suspicion. Sometimes an employer may even try to get you to say things in your statement that will hurt your case in the future. Once something is recorded, even if it's not what you meant, it will be hard to argue against it in court and it could seriously hinder your ability to recover damages down the road. Essentially, be very careful about giving a recorded statement before you consult a Jones Act attorney.

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