Yes and No. Most of the time, an employer will not specifically state that they are firing you because you are pursuing an injury claim. If they do, they are most likely in violation of state and federal laws.
Instead, if you are in an “at-will” state like Louisiana, the employer may terminate you for being unable to come back to work. Most of the time, an employer is not required to keep your job available to you.
However, in a Jones Act case, a seaman has the right to file suit against their employer to recover lost wages and future lost wages caused as a result of their injuries. Also, a Jones Act employer is required to pay for the injured workers’ maintenance (daily living expenses) and cure (all the medical expenses required to get the injured worker to maximum medical improvement).
Beware! We have seen many cases where an employer “took care” of an injured worker until the statute of limitations had passed for that worker to file a lawsuit. Once the time period passed, the employee was terminated and time-barred from protecting their rights.
We know that filing a Jones Act claim is a big decision. Let us help you make it. We offer free confidential consultations so that you can better understand your rights.
When you hire us, rest assured that an attorney handles your case. Your
file won’t be handed over to a junior attorney or secretary. Communication is a cornerstone of our firm.
Our legal library is full of articles on a variety of topics related to personal injury claims in Louisiana. Learn about how accidents happen, what to do when you are a victim, and how an attorney can help you fight for the compensation you may deserve.
