Fishermen are truly the backbone of America, with Alaskan fishermen in particular often facing dangerous conditions on the rough seas. Given the risks involved, it’s essential that you have protection and a safety net in case of injury while on the job. In this blog post, we’ll explain the Fishermen’s Fund and walk you through the steps to apply for it.
Fishermen’s Fund Overview
The Fishermen’s Fund, according to Alaska’s Labor Division, supports the treatment and care of Alaska-licensed commercial fishermen injured while fishing in Alaska, whether onshore or offshore.
Eligibility for Benefits
To qualify, crew members must:
- Have a valid commercial fishing license or limited entry permit at the time of injury.
- Seek initial medical treatment within 120 days of the injury or illness.
- Submit an application within one year of the initial treatment.
- Provide medical documentation for each treatment.
- Ensure the injury occurred in Alaska or Alaskan waters.
Steps to Apply
- Obtain medical treatment promptly (within 120 days).
- Inform the medical facility that two reports need to be completed:
- Fishermen’s Report of Injury or Illness (Form #07-6125)
- Physician’s Report of Injury or Illness (Form #07-6126)
- Both the fisherman and the physician must complete their respective reports fully.
- Record the vessel owner’s Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance policy details in Box #20 and complete the Report of Vessel/Site Insurance Form (07-6119).
Contact a Maritime Injury Lawyer
It is a basic right that everyone should feel protected and safe at their place of work. If you are a fisherman in Alaska who has been injured on the job, you may be entitled to compensation. Injury at Sea has immense experience helping maritime workers receive the justice they deserve.
Our firm is headquartered in Seattle and represents clients located in Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and California. Call us today at 1-800-SEA-SALT for a free consultation.
Injury at Sea is led by Jim Gooding and Matt Cole. Jim has been practicing personal injury law for over 30 years and has consistently been recognized for his legal work. Jim can be reached at jim@injuryatsea.com. Matt has over 15 years of experience working in the commercial fishing industry, and he understands the dangers that maritime workers face at sea. Recognized as a Rising Star Lawyer, he now seeks to represent workers who have been injured at sea. Matt can be reached at matt@injuryatsea.com.