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    Thibodaux Seaman Injury Lawyer

    Working as a seaman can be a dangerous profession. It is not uncommon for serious injuries or even deaths to result from working on a boat. Unfortunately, it can extremely very difficult for seamen to obtain compensation for their injuries.

    Unlike most other professions in Louisiana, workers who spend a significant amount of their time on water as opposed to land, are not protected by workers’ compensation insurance policies.

    If you have been involved in an accident at sea, contact a Thibodaux seaman injury lawyer. An experienced maritime injury attorney could help you fight right to compensation.

    What are Common Sea Accidents in Thibodaux?

    While there are several ways that seaman can be injured, the common ones that Thibodaux seamen injury lawyers have seen are as follows:

    • Slips and falls on deck
    • Injuries from machinery or equipment
    • Falling overboard

    These accidents can lead to serious injuries which require immediate medical attention.

    Workers’ Compensation Policies for Seamen

    While seamen are not typically covered under workers’ compensation policies, there are some ways Thibodaux seaman injury lawyers can help seamen pursue claims.

    Maintenance and Cure Claim

    Any seaman who is injured while in the service of the vessel is entitled to have all medical treatment for his injuries paid for by his employer. The injured seaman, if he so chooses, is entitled to be treated by a physician of his choice and not the “Company Doctor”. This medical treatment is known as Cure, and the injured seaman should continue to receive treatment at the employer’s cost until he reaches maximum medical improvement. The employer is also required to provide maintenance, the rough equivalent of room and board, so long as the seaman is not fit for duty. If the employer unfairly refuses to pay for medical treatment or begin payment of maintenance following notice, a Thibodaux seaman injury lawyer can force the employer to begin payment and seek damages for the unfair refusal. These damages can include attorney fees and, in some cases, punitive damages.

    Beyond Maintenance and Cure, Seamen may pursue further compensation for their injuries under the General Maritime Law or the Jones Act.

    Unseaworthy Vessel Claim

    Unseaworthy vessel claims under the General Maritime law (also known as vessel negligence claims) provide Thibodaux seamen who were injured while working on a boat or vessel with compensation if the vessel was not seaworthy or was dangerous.

    Jones Act

    The Jones Act is a federal law that specifically creates a cause of action for seamen to file lawsuits for negligence against their employers for their injuries. According to 46 U.S.C. 30104, this civil suit is an additional way seamen can collect compensation for their losses.

    Unseaworthy vessel claims or Jones Act claims must be filed within three years of the date of the injury. Individuals considering filing lawsuits should work with a Thibodaux seaman injury lawyer.

    What Types of Compensation are Available in Seaman Injury Cases?

    Compensation for seamen after an accident is similar to other personal injuries. Compensation can typically include:

    • Medical health
    • Lost wages
    • Pain and suffering

    If an employee dies due to the injury, this lawsuit will be brought by a personal representative. This representative, either an executor named in a will or an administrator appointed by the court has the power to file lawsuits on behalf of the decedent’s family or estate. A Thibodaux seaman injury lawyer can work with injured workers and their families to file lawsuits designed to provide financial stability for the future.

    Talking to a Thibodaux Seaman Injury Attorney

    Injuries that happen on navigable waters can have devastating consequences for a seaman and their family. Sadly, these workers are not protected by traditional workers’ compensation laws. Instead, Seamen must file lawsuits in United States District Courts or State Courts to collect full compensation for their injuries.

    If you or someone you love has been involved in an injury while working at sea, contact a Thibodaux seaman injury lawyer. A qualified lawyer could work with you and your family to understand the impact that the injury has had on your life. They could prepare lawsuits that demand compensation for not just the physical impact of the incident, but also for the economic and emotional repercussions. Do not delay, contact an attorney today to schedule an appointment to discuss your case.