How to Calculate the Value of Your Cruise Ship Crew Member Injury Claim
Posted on Sunday, April 30th, 2023 at 6:57 pm
Working on a cruise ship is often dangerous and can lead to severe injuries. If you sustain an injury while working on a cruise ship, you may have the right to compensation for your injuries. But how much are cruise ship crew member injury claims worth?
Every cruise ship injury case is different, but most crew members have the right to substantial compensation for work-related injuries. Keep reading to learn more about compensation for cruise ship crew member injuries, or you can call our office at (786) 375-0344 to speak to an attorney.
What Are the Most Common Injuries for Cruise Ship Crew Members?
Cruise ship crew members face unique hazards and often work in challenging environments. Some of the most common injuries crew members sustain on cruise vessels include:
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Burns and scalds
- Injuries from heavy lifting
- Infections and foodborne illnesses
- Assaults and battery incidents
- Accidents during safety drills
What Are the Most Common Causes of Cruise Ship Crew Injuries?
Several factors contribute to the risk of injury for crew members, including:
- Wet and slippery surfaces
- Uneven decks and walkways
- Poorly maintained equipment
- Insufficient safety training
- Inadequate staffing and long work hours
- Lack of proper safety gear
Are Cruise Lines Liable for Crew Member Injuries?
Cruise lines are responsible for providing a safe working environment for crew members and might be liable for injuries resulting from negligence or failure to follow safety regulations. Injured crew members are often entitled to compensation under the Jones Act, which protects maritime workers.
What Compensation or Benefits Are Available for Injured Crew Members?
If you’ve suffered an injury while working on a cruise ship, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Maintenance and Cure: Under general maritime law, injured crew members are entitled to “maintenance and cure” benefits. “Maintenance” refers to money you receive to cover daily living expenses, such as room and board, while you recover from your injury. “Cure” covers all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to the injury. Under the Jones Act, these benefits are provided regardless of fault and continue until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
- Medical Expenses: In addition to “cure” benefits, injured crew members may have the right to compensation for medical expenses not covered under cure, such as long-term care, specialized medical equipment, and ongoing therapy or rehabilitation services.
- Lost Wages: If an injury prevents a crew member from working, they may be eligible for compensation for lost wages. This includes wages lost during the recovery period and any reduction in earning capacity due to the injury.
- Pain and Suffering: Crew members who have suffered severe physical and emotional pain due to their injury may have the right to compensation for pain and suffering. This compensation considers the nature and extent of the injury and its impact on the individual’s quality of life.
- Disability Benefits: In cases where an injury leads to a partial or total disability, crew members may have the right to disability benefits. These benefits are either temporary or permanent, depending on the nature and duration of the disability.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If an injured crew member cannot return to their previous job due to their injury, they may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services. These services can help injured crew acquire new skills and find alternative employment opportunities.
Each case is unique, and the value of your claim will depend on factors such as the severity of your injury, the extent of your medical treatment, and the impact on your ability to work.
How Injured Cruise Ship Crew Members Can Protect Their Rights
To ensure the best outcome for your injury claim, it’s essential to take the following steps:
- Report your injury to your supervisor immediately
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible
- Document the circumstances surrounding your injury
- Keep records of all medical expenses and lost wages
- Consult with an experienced cruise ship injury attorney
Contact Our Cruise Ship Crew Injury Attorney Now
The cruise ship crew injury team at Louis A. Vucci P.A. knows how devastating these injuries can be and is here to help you recover fair compensation. We have the experience, knowledge, and dedication to maximize your compensation so you can heal and get your life back on track. Call us today at (786) 375-0344 or visit our contact page for a free consultation.
Related Posts:
