Part 9 - Longshore Compensation

Longshore Compensation vs. Jones Act

Longshore-Harborworker Compensation claims are not the same as Workers Compensation or Jones Act claims.  While both involve on-the-job injuries, Jones Act settlements are usually greater.  A worker should be careful about filing a claim or accepting benefits under Longshore laws.  Filing for Longshore or State Workers' Compensation could cause a loss of rights to pursue a Jones Act claim, which could be a big mistake. 

The Jones Act is a federal law that provides for claims by workers who are injured while in service to a vessel on navigable waters.  This includes offshore oil drilling rigs, crew boats, ships and most barges, even those engaged in dredging.  Jones Act coverage is also available if a maritime worker was injured while in transport to and from the vessel even while the vessel was docked. 

Jones Act settlements should cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, impairment, loss of earning capacity, loss of household services and even your loss of enjoyment of life. 

Employers may tell their injured workers to file a longshore compensation claim or workers' compensation claim instead of a Jones Act claim.  The reason may be that Jones Act settlements are much larger than any state or federal compensation settlement.  If an injury occurs on the water or near the water the worker should always contact a maritime lawyer to determine if the claim is Jones Act, longshore or workers' compensation.