How Can I Help My Loved One?

A Seaman's Injuries Affect the Whole Family

Any serious maritime injury affects the injured person's entire family. If a member of your family has been injured at sea and can't work, the bills can pile up and cause stress in the family. The injury victim can become depressed, withdrawn, and irritable. What can you do to help?

First, contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Beard Stacey & Jacobsen, LLP for a free initial consultation. From our offices in Anchorage and Seattle, our lawyers have helped thousands of injury victims and their families get through this difficult time. We can evaluate your case, outline your options, and explain your rights.

Know Your Rights

It's important to know that, under federal maritime law, an injured seaman or fisherman has the right to unlimited medical care using the doctors of your choice. The payment of your medical bills is a legal obligation of your employer. All medical treatment and therapy capable of improving an injured seaman's condition is the obligation of the seaman's employer to pay. This care includes surgeries, nursing services, transportation to the doctor, treatment for depression, and other psychological disorders that may develop because of the injury. This is your right as an injured seaman/fisherman.

Help your loved one understand how important it is to focus on healing and physical recovery before settling your injury claim. Once you settle, you won't be able to go back and get more compensation should additional symptoms develop.

Finally, know that the best thing you can do for your injured seaman is to take care of yourself. A serious maritime injury can turn your entire family's life upside down. Try to find support or take some time for yourself occasionally so that you can bear up under the pressure of these difficult circumstances.

Contact a Maritime Law Attorney at Beard Stacey & Jacobsen.