Following a bodily injury, any seaman needs to take measures to protect interests. What should you expect from maritime employers in such cases? They will use legal advice from high-powered attorneys in their favor. Learn more about the tactics they use against injured crewmembers.
Strategies Employers Use Against Injured Seamen
Seamen employers have sophisticated insurers, hire high-powered maritime attorneys, and often employ adjusters to assist in personal injury cases. As you can see, the defendant’s side uses powerful guidance to achieve their goals.
Let’s have a look at the adjuster‘s role. They handle the claim after the accident and specifically the seaman’s claim for maintenance and cure benefits. Some of the primary adjuster’s objectives are:
- Taking a recorded statement of the injured crewmember; and
- Using the recorded statement against the seaman later in the lawsuit.
Pursuing the vessel employer’s interest, the adjuster could even attempt to talk to the seaman, while he is still recovering in the hospital.
Adjusters do this to get the worker’s version of the accident on the record before the seaman has even had a chance to talk to a personal injury lawyer. When the suit is filed, they will try and use your recorded statement against you.
How Should Seamen Handle Their Personal Injury Claims
Knowing what kind of a strategy your maritime employer can use against you helps you be better prepared. Still, handling the claim yourself is too risky. What should you do?
It is best not to give any statement until you have had time to consult with an experienced maritime personal injury attorney. Your attorney will have as a primary goal to thoroughly investigate your case before any statement is given. Next, they will advise you on the personal statement, so your description of the events leaves no loopholes for the employer.
Seamen can also build a robust strategy with legal guidance. Learn more about the advance on wages.
