Maritime Workers and the Jones Act


Jones act workers compensation

Congress passed the Longshore and harbor workers compensation Act(LHWCA) to provide financial relief to longshoremen if they ever get injured on the job. Self insured and authorized employers pay the benefits directly to the injured employee. There are other times when authorized insurance carriers pay the Longshore and Harbor Worker’s Compensation benefits too. The benefit amount is based by how much the employee was earning at the time of the injury. Right now the minimum replacement wage rate is $323.80. There is a $1,295.20 maximum cap set for the benefits however.

If an employee dies as the result of their injuries a $3,000 death benefit is allotted to the family of the deceased to help pay for funeral expenses. The surviving family will also get survivor benefits, the amount of which is based on the employee’s AWW. Defense Base Act attorneys can help family members receive their benefits if they are having any trouble with their claim.

Jones Act Workers Compensation is another law congress passed to cover workers employed in the maritime industry. It was made into law in 1920. Employees who work on sea going vessels and on the docks are entitled to receive compensation for on the job injuries under this act. Dock workers are covered if they get injured while performing job duties on a ship. However, dock workers should contact an attorney to represent them if they ever need to file this kind of compensation claim for an on the job injury

Jones Act Workers compensation is for those in the maritime industry who do not have access to any other worker’s comp program. When an accident with injuries occurs at sea it falls under maritime law and the Jones Act Workers compensation program. Individuals who are hurt at sea have the right to recovery. Under the Jones Act Workers Compensation program, injured workers may also qualify for a certain percentage to cover living expenses. Anyone who spends 30% or more of their working hours at sea can receive benefits under the Jones Act Workers Compensation program. Find out more by talking to a Dba attorney today.

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18 responses to “Maritime Workers and the Jones Act”

  1. I’m so glad congress had passed these two laws. Without them, what would injured maritime workers do if they get hurt on the job

  2. I’m so glad congress had passed these two laws. Without them, what would injured maritime workers do if they get hurt on the job

  3. I’m so glad congress had passed these two laws. Without them, what would injured maritime workers do if they get hurt on the job

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