Have I reached MMI?

The Jones Act requires employers to provide employees with assistance should they be injured while on board a ship. If you were injured because of faulty equipment, the negligence of a co-worker, or a slip and fall, you could be entitled to compensation. Maintenance and cure refers to the payment injured seaman receive in order to help pay for medical fees as well as cost of living. What many workers do not realize is that the law is very clear on the rights of injured seaman. Even if you were the cause of the accident, your employer is still required to grant you full maintenance and cure.

Maintenance includes: rent, utility bills, food, transportation, and any other necessary costs for daily life. Cure includes all expenses necessary to make you better. For example, hospital bills, tests, medications, and physical therapy should all be covered. But what if your injury created long-term health problems? When does the responsibility of your employer end in regards to maintenance and cure?

Maximum medical improvement (MMI) occurs when an employee cannot be further helped by medical treatment. Even though they may not be fully healed, doctors have stated that there is no treatment to help them improve further. Just because an injured worker met MMI, it does not mean that they are well enough to work. They may always suffer from the injury or illnesses and never be able to retain a job. If the employee was receiving workers' compensation, the benefits may be adjusted depending on whether they suffer from partial or permanent disabilities. As each state has varying workers comp laws, the amount and whether they receive benefits will vary. If you do not believe that you have met MMI or think you may be entitled to long-term disability benefits, allow an offshore injury attorney to review your case.