Maritime workers on the waterways of Puget Sound face serious risks of injury and wrongful death. Fortunately, those who spend at least 70 percent of their time working aboard a vessel qualify as seamen for purposes of The Jones Act. This federal law provides no-fault benefits for on-the-job injuries and occupational illnesses, but also allows seamen to sue when there is evidence that negligence or the unseaworthiness of a vessel caused their injuries. At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, our personal injury attorneys manage Jones Act lawsuits so that injured maritime employees can obtain the maximum compensation possible.
The no-fault system in Washington is a good safety net for maritime employees who suffer minor work-related injuries and are soon able to return to work. Unfortunately, maritime workers who suffer severe personal injury can exhaust their no-fault benefits and sustain significant economic losses from medical expenses and disability. Over time, a disabling injury can have a devastating financial impact on the seaman and his or her family.
However, when a worker exercises fault-based rights, suing for negligence under The Jones Act, that worker may be entitled to damages that include:
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A worker facing long-term disability due to maritime injuries can fare much better with a successful negligence claim. If you or a loved one has suffered catastrophic harm from, for example, a spinal injury or a brain injury, consult a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who has managed Jones Act cases. At RHHK, we’re dedicated to making wrongs right. That’s best accomplished by getting you the highest possible level of compensation for you injuries.
Maritime workers who suffer job-related injuries may be eligible for more than no-fault benefits. To find out if you qualify, talk to a personal injury attorney at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler Schedule your free consultation by calling 253-383-5388 or contacting us online. There are no upfront attorney fees, and you only pay for our services after you obtain monetary compensation.