Offshore workers in the Pacific Northwest have one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. The chances of catastrophic injury from an accident are high, and sometimes, help for an injured worker can be dozens of miles away across choppy ocean waves. If you’ve been hurt in a maritime accident, you may be eligible for compensation under the Jones Act. A Washington Jones Act claim injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and eligibility to file a suit. Contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, for a free consultation to learn more.
The Jones Act is a federal law permitting injured maritime workers and seamen the right to sue their employer if they’re injured at sea. Unlike workers’ compensation, which is limited in scope to wage benefits, medical care, and a disability schedule, the Jones Act essentially allows an injured worker to file a personal injury lawsuit and seek damages beyond what workers’ compensation offers.
In almost all situations, no. State and federal laws determine whether you’ll file a workers’ compensation claim or pursue compensation under the Jones Act or other federal programs (such as the Longshore Harbor & Workers Compensation Act). A lawyer may note that you should file a state workers’ comp claim if your job title and injury fall under Washington laws for workers’ comp.
Most offshore workers are classified as “seamen” and may pursue Jones Act benefits instead of workers’ compensation.
However, you cannot file for both state Workers’ Comp benefits and Jones Act benefits. The laws are complex, so consult with an experienced Jones Act attorney to see what program you qualify for.
Filing a Jones Act claim can be complicated, but with the right legal advice, you can trust that your attorney will correctly file your paperwork, gather the evidence you need to support your case and argue your claim of employer negligence.
Filing a Jones Act claim is the same as filing a personal injury lawsuit. This means that your lawyer must prove negligence on the part of your employer or a willful disregard for the safety of its workers.
Your lawyer can interview witnesses, investigate the case of the accident, and talk to medical experts who link your injuries to the incident. They can also negotiate for full and fair compensation to cover your medical care, rehabilitative therapy, vocational retraining, pain and suffering from your injuries, and consideration for the loss of enjoyment of life your disability caused.
You may need to attend a hearing or court for your Jones Act claim. Your attorney can represent you in all legal proceedings, fighting for your rights and protecting your interests.
Do you need help getting the compensation you deserve after a maritime injury? The experienced legal team at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, can help. Contact our offices today to speak one-on-one with an experienced Washington Jones Act claim injury lawyer.
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Lawyer fees for car accident cases vary. Most work on a contingency basis, taking 25% to 40% of the settlement. Hourly rates might range from $100 to $500+. Additional costs like filing fees can apply. Free consultations help you understand the fee structure.
Most injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, taking 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. This means they’re only paid if they win your case.
In Florida, lawyers typically take a contingency fee of around 33% to 40% of the settlement amount in personal injury cases. This fee structure ensures they are paid only if your case is successful.
