Thanks to claims under the Jones Act, sailors and seamen receive accident protection similar to that provided by worker’s compensation insurance to land-bound workers. Maritime and admiralty laws govern the open seas. If you meet the definition of a seaman and have been injured at sea, the Jones Act allows for recovery and compensation for your injury and lost wages. Headquartered in Houston, the Jolly Roger Law Firm, was founded upon personal and professional experience. Lawyer Jed Silverman was a sailor himself and has worked on a commercial vessel. Along with co-captain Neal Davis, attorney Silverman is dedicated to helping sailors recover damages for accidents, injuries and illnesses sustained during their employment at sea.
The Merchant Marine Act Of 1920
The Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (otherwise known as the Jones Act) defines merchant marines as commercial fleets and vessels that ship commercial goods back and forth across the seas and oceans for the purpose of domestic trade. Under other admiralty and maritime laws, mariners are not allowed to file for workers’ compensation if they are injured on the job. However, the Jones Act gives sailors and seamen the right to file a lawsuit against their private and commercial employers if they are injured on a vessel at sea. Under the Jones Act, commercial employers are expected to provide a safe place for their sailors to work and keep the boat or vessel functional and safe. A failure of either of these could result in the employer being liable for negligence.
Who Qualifies As A Seaman Under The Jones Act?
The Jones Act protects seamen. A “seaman” is someone (regardless of gender) who was hired and is employed to work on any type of boat or vessel, and their job requires a significant amount of time on that boat or vessel. The Jones Act protects all employees on a boat, from crew members to captains. There can be a lot of questions about the Jones Act, but our experienced crew members, led by our knowledgeable maritime personal injury lawyers, are ready to assist and answer any of your specific questions.
Steps To Take If You Are Injured At Sea
Any Houston maritime attorney will tell you that the sea is a perilous place to work and that accidents and injuries are common. Under the “maintenance and cure” provisions of the Jones Act, recovery for medical expenses and lost wages isn’t difficult. However, if you are injured at sea, here are some important steps to take:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible; the Coast Guard can medevac you to a hospital if necessary.
- Follow up with your doctor and follow all medical instructions.
- Consult with a maritime attorney as soon as possible.
- Do not provide any official statements or speak to the insurance companies without your lawyer present.
By seeking medical attention immediately, you are documenting your accident injuries. By retaining a lawyer as soon as possible, you are protecting your rights to compensation and recovery. Insurance companies will seek to close claims as fast as possible, even before you know the full extent of your damages. An experienced Jones Act lawyer will help protect your interests and can negotiate on your behalf. An attorney will understand the procedures for filing a claim and know where and how to file it under maritime/admiralty law. Our maritime attorneys will have your back and will be willing to take your case all the way to litigation if it is in your best interests to do so.
Send An SOS To Our Jones Act Attorneys Today
The Jolly Roger Law Firm offers a free initial consultation with an attorney. Send an SOS through our website using our online form. We look forward to bringing you on board and fighting for the treasure that will compensate you for your injuries.
