Working at sea is tough. The hours are long, the work is hard and the risks are real. You deal with heavy equipment, rough weather and tight deadlines, all while being far from medical help.
When you get hurt on the job, it can turn your life upside down. Suddenly, you’re not just dealing with pain – you’re also worrying about your paycheck, your recovery and your future. That’s why it’s so important to understand your rights and what steps to take after an offshore injury.
You have legal rights
Seamen have legal protections under the Jones Act – a law that protects seamen who are injured while working on a vessel. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering and more. You could even sue your employer if negligence or unsafe working conditions caused your injury.
Report the injury right away and seek medical care
Inform your captain or supervisor as soon as possible (in writing if you can). Even if the injury seems minor, report it. Waiting too long to speak can hurt your case later.
Equally crucial is getting immediate medical attention. Don’t push through the pain. Get checked and keep records of every visit, prescription and note from the doctor.
Document the incident
Keep track of how the injury happened. Write down everything you remember – where you were, what you were doing, who saw it happen and what equipment was involved. These details matter if questions come up later.
You’re not alone
Many seamen feel pressure to stay quiet or tough it out after a workplace accident. However, getting help is the smart move. Remember, maritime injury cases aren’t like regular workplace claims. The rules are different, the paperwork can get confusing, and employers often have legal teams looking out for their interests. That’s why getting the right guidance matters.