I was hurt while working on a cruise ship. Is the cruise line responsible for my medical bills?

A: Under the Jones Act, seamen are entitled to paid medical care, which is known as “cure.” As a crewmember, you should be considered a seaman under this law.

According to the Jones Act, your employer must pay for your medical treatment until you reach “maximum cure,” meaning your condition is not expected to improve any further.  The law also entitles you to compensation for your living expenses during your recovery, which is referred to as “maintenance.”

While this compensation seems pretty straightforward, some employers are not cooperative and may withhold these payments or pay you too little.  The best thing to do after suffering a cruise ship injury is to contact a lawyer.

An experienced Houston cruise ship attorney from our office will be able to review your situation and help you recover the compensation in which you are entitled.  For more information, call us toll free at 877.724.7800 or fill out our contact form.