Mexico Jones Act Lawyer Straight Talk: Injured in Mexican Waters?

This website provides information to injured Seaman and their families. Our goal is to level the playing field between seriously injured Jones Act Seaman and insurance companies. We expose the tricks, traps, and techniques they use to cheat injured crew members out of their legal rights. We provide vital information so you can make informed decisions regarding your Jones Act Case.

This is THE most comprehensive Seaman's website. Period.

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If you still have questions after you have researched your case here, please call us. We will answer your questions, free of charge and with no obligation. (619) 234-2833.

Seriously injured yacht crew members and their families need to understand maritime law. This discussion includes a Maritime Law analysis.

Can I Bring My Seaman's Case in the United States?

The first place to start is determining whether your case be brought in the United States. Generally, you may need to demonstrate ties to the United States. If the vessel is registered in the United States or your employer is from the US, you will usually be able to bring your Seaman lawsuit in the United States.

Oftentimes luxury yachts are registered in foreign countries. This is usually not an impediment to being able to bring a Seaman's injury case in US courts. You need to show US ties. Here are some examples:

- Working in US territorial waters.
- Being hired in the United States.
- Being a US citizen.
- Being paid from the United States.
- US ownership (shareholders, partners, etc.)
- Receiving instructions/ orders from US based persons

Getting Maintenance and Cure

Oftentimes, once you are injured aboard a yacht or fishing boat in Mexico one of the single most important steps in obtaining maintenance and cure (money to live and medical treatment) is getting in contact with the liability insurance company. You usually will not receive benefits until this contact occurs. Time and again vessel owners try and keep insurance information from injured crew members. Apparently in the hope that if you don't contact the insurance company maybe you and your need for maintenance and cure will go away.

Call 619-234-2833 or 866-963-0540or e-mail us at this website.

You Are At War With An Insurance Company

Getting in contact with the insurance company is a double edged sword, of course. Once you are injured, you need to know that you are literally at war with an insurance company. They are trying to keep from paying you money you are entitled to under the law. You are trying to survive on maintenance and cure.

The attitude and approach you take with the insurance company can mean everything. Don't argue and/or be hostile with the insurance adjuster. Be polite. Be nice. But don't be chatty. Remember, everything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. Depend on it.

You are better off having your attorney communicate with the insurance adjuster if at all possible. Whatever you do - do not give a recorded or written statement. Do not admit fault. Do not sign any authorizations. You don't need to do any of these things in order to receive maintenance and cure.

Your Credibility is Always At Issue

Seaman's cases are court cases. Whenever you come into court asking for money your credibility is always at issue. The jury doesn't believe you before you even walk into court. Do not do or say anything to have the jury doubt yoru credibility. No matter what - the truth is always the best alternative. Always tell the truth.

Disclaimer:

This article is not legal advice. Any resemblance to actual cases and/or vessels is purely by accident. I am admittedly simplistic in order to achieve clarity. Each Mexico Jones Act case case is different and has separate difficulties and/or challenges.

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