What Damages May I Recover Under the Jones Act?

Posted by: rzehl
June 24, 2008
Topic: What to Do in Case of an Offshore Accident

There are many different kinds of damages available to an injured seaman under the Jones Act. However, it is important to keep in mind that these legal damages only exist in order to compensate a party for any injury or loss suffered. These damages do not exist to make anyone better off than they were before an accident.

Under the Jones Act, you may be eligible to recover:

Medical Expenses-The Jones Act allows recovery from one's employer for any necessary hospital treatment, surgery or medication following an offshore injury.

Pain and Suffering-The Jones Act allows an injured maritime employee to recover compensation for any pain and suffering resulting from an on-the-job injury.

Disfigurement-The Jones Act may allow compensation for any permanent physical disfigurement resulting from an injury. This includes compensation for any embarrassment felt due to scarring, missing limbs, loss of hearing or vision or any other unwelcome change in physical appearance or performance.

Mental Anguish-The Jones Act may provide compensation for any mental anguish resulting from the inability to enjoy the activities that you used to enjoy. This includes recreational activities like jogging, fishing, playing golf, etc.

Lost Wages-Under the Jones Act, once employer negligence is proven in causing the injury, an injured seaman may recover lost wages stemming from the time he was unable to work because of the injury.

Lost Earning Capacity-The Jones Act may provide compensation for any drop in an injured worker's ability to earn money. Essentially, a worker may recover the difference between pre-injury wages and subsequently lower post-injury wages.

Web Resources

Houston Jones Act Attorney
Houston Car Accident Attorney
U.S. Courts
United States Chamber of Commerce
FirstGov
Library of Congress
Yahoo!Legal Blog Directory