If you are a worker on the Ohio River in Kentucky, you may be aware that you may not be eligible for workers’ compensation like the majority of workers in the United States. However, this does not mean that you will not be entitled to any compensation whatsoever as to the result of your injury.
As a river worker, it is likely that you will be protected by laws in place as a consequence of the Jones Act. This is a federal law that regulates many aspects of maritime activity across the United States.
How does the Jones Act benefit me as an injured river worker?
As an injured worker, it is likely that you have had to pay for medical treatment, and as a result, you have probably suffered financially. In addition to this, you may have been forced to take time off work and lost wages as a result.
The Jones Act put in place certain rights for sailors and other ship workers. This includes the ability to make a legal claim against your employer for the injuries you suffered as a result of fulfilling your work duties.
Taking action to gain compensation through the Jones Act can be a great deal more complex than a simple workers’ compensation claim. For example, the cause of your injury, and the circumstances surrounding it will be fully examined. However, by taking action, you may be able to have a successful result.
If you want to gain back damages after your river injury, it is important that you take action as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help.