Jones Act May Provide Compensation for an Arm Injury

Working on the treacherous seas or on an unpredictable oil rig can lead to serious injuries.  An arm injury is one of these injuries and is commonly caused by falls.  When it comes to working on a vessel, the risk of a fall accident is high.  Decks are slippery or oily, stairs are often broken, old ladders and other conditions onboard can create significant hazards.

The medical term, “arm injury,” can refer to a variety of conditions, including an arm contusion, fracture or dislocation.  While all of these arm injuries are incredibly painful, some lead to a longer recovery than others.

Some of the warning signs of a serious arm injury include pain, serious bruising, massive swelling, obvious deformity, numbness, weakness and inability to move the arm.  A doctor will diagnose an arm injury caused by a maritime accident by examining the injured arm and ordering a diagnostic test, such as an MRI or x-ray.  Once the type of injury has been identified, the doctor will recommend the best course of treatment.  In some cases, surgery is required to repair the arm.

If you are a Jones Act seaman and have sustained an arm injury, you may be entitled to compensation.  For more information regarding your rights, contact an experienced maritime accident attorney at the Law Offices of Vujasinovic & Beckcom P.L.L.C. at (713) 224-7800 or (877) 724-7800.  Also read our article, Arm Injuries and the Jones Act.