Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can change your life, causing recurrent nightmares and flashbacks that make everyday life a challenge. It can also have physical repercussions, causing loss of appetite and insomnia. If you or a loved one is a seaman coping with PTSD after a job-related injury, a Jones Act maritime PTSD attorney can help you seek compensation.
Financial recovery is only one step on the road to recovery. At Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers, we work closely with our clients’ healthcare teams to ensure they get the best possible medical care. Contact our consultation team today to learn how hard our Jones Act maritime accident lawyer will fight for you.
What Jones Act Compensation Covers for Seamen With PTSD
Injured maritime workers can seek compensation for work-related injuries and their related expenses and losses. A claim under the Jones Act allows you to seek the following compensation:
- Current and future lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Current and future medical bills
You can also seek damages for physical and emotional pain and suffering. Compensation can cover the costs of behavioral and psychological care to help you cope with the trauma of PTSD.
Your personal injury lawyer will collect your medical records, bills, and written prognosis from every medical facility where you received treatment. These bills will substantiate the monetary value of your compensation request.
What You Need to Know About the Statute of Limitations on Jones Act Cases
According to U.S. Code 46 § 30106, you generally have three years to seek Jones Act (46 USC § 30104) compensation. When a personal injury attorney from our team handles your case, we will work hard to help you understand the filing deadline and its application to your case.
We also underscore the importance of timely filing. Filing your case too late can result in being unable to file and losing the right to seek compensation.
Why PTSD Affects Injured Seamen and Maritime Workers
Maritime work is physically and emotionally challenging. Employees in the maritime industry regularly experience ongoing threats of illness and dangerous conditions, including:
- Collisions with other ships
- Running aground of shorelines
- Ship and equipment failures
- Onboard explosions or fires
- Slippery platforms
In addition to these ongoing threats, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cites these common maritime injuries:
- Vehicular accidents, including cars, forklifts, and industry-specific vehicles
- Slip and fall accidents, including same-level falls, falls from heights, and falls overboard, potentially resulting in accidental drownings
- Material handling accidents, including improper rigging, imbalanced cargo, and incorrect clamping
The aftermath of these accidents and resulting physical injuries can have a mental and emotional toll, often resulting in debilitating PTSD.
Symptoms and Indications of PTSD in Maritime Workers
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, you may immediately recognize the symptoms of PTSD, or they may take time to manifest. Warning signs may vary but typically include:
- Intense, intrusive memories
- Nightmares and trouble sleeping
- Chronic worry or anxiety
- Actual or perceived feeling of isolation
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
- Irrational or violent outbursts
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
At Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers, our Jones Act maritime PTSD lawyers help injured maritime workers in Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and nationwide. Do not hesitate to seek our support in your fight for financial compensation. Contact our consultation team today to learn more.
Why Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers Is the Right Maritime Injury Law Firm for You
Fighting for Jones Act compensation can be a long and frustrating process. While you concentrate on recovering your mental and physical health, your maritime lawyer will work on your financial recovery.
To strengthen and support your PTSD case, we will:
- Collect medical and psychological records and bills
- Fight hard for compensation and financial security
- Help you return to work when you are ready and able
- Offer a no-cost, no-obligation review of your case
- Negotiate for a fair financial settlement
All the steps we take are part of our promise to you and every injured client we represent. Our maritime injury lawyers know how hard it can be to wait for news as your case progresses, so we will provide regular updates at each development.
See What It Means to Work With Our Client-Focused Legal Team
Every client we represent is a priority for our personal injury law firm. Previous clients often leave us testimonials like the following:
- “They were the ONLY firm that actually listened to the details of my case … If [you’re] looking for a firm that actually sees you as a real person and not just another payout. Then I promise you. You should reach out to them!” – Bryan R.
- “My experience with Poolson Oden has been more than amazing. A law firm that truly cares for their clients in a special way, adding that personal touch. I would recommend Poolson Oden law firm to anyone looking for a firm with integrity.” – Andra Bridges
Our maritime attorneys are passionate about getting you the best medical care and fair compensation.
We Represent Injured Maritime Workers on a Contingency Fee Basis
The legal process of recovering damages through Jones Act compensation can be daunting. You do not have to handle it without legal guidance. Our law firm will accept your case on contingency. At no out-of-pocket cost to you, we will cover:
- Expert consultations
- Investigation costs
- Discovery costs
- Deposition costs
- Evidence collection
No one should have to deal with a serious legal matter alone. Our law firm will advance all the costs related to your case and fight hard for the compensation you need and deserve.
Contact Us for a Free Review of Your Jones Act PTSD Case
If you are a seaman or other maritime worker struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder after a work-related illness or injury, we can help you seek compensation. Your Jones Act maritime PTSD lawyer will outline your rights and your employer’s financial liability.
We are committed to helping injured maritime workers and their families. Contact one of our team members at Poolson | Oden Injury Lawyers to learn more about your financial recovery options today.