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health care coverage for Jones Act workers
03/10/2021

Health Care Coverage for Jones Act Workers

Vuk Vujasinovic

Vuk Vujasinovic

03/10/2021

Under the Jones Act, injured workers are provided health care coverage for work-related injuries or illnesses. Injured workers are not obligated, nor should they pay a penny or have to work with an insurance company. If you are a Jones Act maritime worker being forced to pay for your health care coverage or work on an insurance claim, contact our Jones Act lawyers today. We will work with you to ensure your rights are protected and you are granted the coverage you deserve.

What is Jones Act Coverage?

Instead of maritime and offshore workers having coverage under workers’ compensation, they are covered under the Jones Act. Through the Jones Act, maritime workers are provided maintenance and cure coverage. This compensation will cover the payments that an injured worker is owed to account for their loss of income as a result of their injury, as well as payments that cover the legitimate medical expenses related to the accident or the worker's illness.

Do Not Use Private Health Insurance if You are Covered by the Jones Act

After a maritime or offshore injury, you are likely unsure of how to proceed. Your employer will likely not advise you on how to cover medical expenses. Do not assume that this means that you have to pay for medical expenses or insurance yourself.

Several health insurance policies state that private insurance does not cover work-related injuries. If you attempt to charge work-related medical expenses to private insurance, your employer may be able to claim that you are attempting fraud. Additionally, if you attempt to use private insurance for your injury coverage, it will further delay the proper reporting and compensation granted through your employer's Jones Act insurance company.

Contact an experienced Jones Act lawyer to understand how to proceed and to seek guidance through this process. You are taking on the burden of dealing with your injury, the associated finances, as well as the temporary loss of work. At VB Attorneys, we take on the burden of these inconveniences so you can focus on recovery.

How to Receive Jones Act Coverage Following An Injury

Immediately following the maritime or offshore injury, inform your employer of the accident. In order to receive Jones Act coverage, you will need to prove the negligence of either the owner of the vessel, a crew member, a master, the employer, or an unsafe working condition.

Contact your maritime injury lawyer as soon as possible following the accident that caused your injury. Not only will they advise you on how to proceed, but they will have the experience in handling your injury claim and compensation.

Our Maritime Lawyers Can Help.

At VB Attorneys, we are considered one of the best Jones Act maritime law firms in the country. We are prepared to answer any questions that you may have and guide you through your injury. Let us walk you through the entire legal process and help you make the best decision for your future. Contact us to schedule your free and confidential consultation with our maritime lawyers.

Topics: Jones Act