Marine Employer Liability

Under federal law (The Jones Act), masters and members of the crew are not restricted to statutory compensation acts (State Workers' Compensation) and may sue their employers for injuries sustained in the course of employment.

Typical Insureds:

Vessel owners who do not cover crew under their P&I policy with a Jones Act endorsement.

What It Covers - The typical MEL policy covers:

Employer's potential liability under the Jones Act in excess of a deduction or retention. A $25,000 sub-limit is generally available from an insured's Worker's Compensation carrier. MEL policies are usually attached as excess of this amount.

Underwriting Considerations:

• Nature, location and duration of work being performed
• Receipts, payroll and payroll estimates for USL&H and Jones Act exposures
• Average and maximum number of employees exposed at any one time
• Claims history

Tip:
Some P&I carriers limit Jones Act coverage to specified crew. This intent is to limit coverage to employees performing traditional crew functions furthering the mission of the vessel; and to exclude coverage for contracting personnel working from vessels. If this is the case, owners should consider MEL coverage.

Marine Employer Liability Application (.pdf)

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