Which endorsement would be most appropriate for seamen in maritime contexts to receive coverage?

• A. Jones Act endorsement
• B. United States Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act endorsement
• C. Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) Coverage endorsement
• D. Voluntary Compensation and Employers Liability endorsement

Answer: (A)

Seamen on ships are governed by federal maritime law, so the endorsement crafted to address their unique rights and coverage is the Jones Act endorsement. This endorsement aligns a workers’ compensation policy with the Jones Act framework, ensuring seamen receive workers’ compensation-type coverage while also recognizing potential Jones Act remedies for negligence by the employer. In contrast, the Longshore and Harbor Workers Act endorsement applies to specific maritime workers like longshoremen and harbor laborers, not typical seamen aboard vessels; the FELA endorsement covers railroad employees; and the Voluntary Compensation and Employers Liability endorsement is a general option not tailored to seamen’s maritime protections. Therefore, the Jones Act endorsement is the most appropriate choice for seamen to receive coverage.