What Injured Gulf Of Mexico Mariners Need To Know About The Jones Act
The Jones Act, also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is one of the major components of U.S. maritime law. Broadly, the law is designed to promote a strong domestic maritime industry. One of the most significant — and controversial — provisions restricts the use of foreign ships in domestic shipping.
However, for many people who work on the water, the most important protections of the Jones Act are for injured seaman. If you have been hurt on a seagoing vessel, the Jones Act allows you to make a claim for compensation if your injury was caused by the negligence of the vessels’ owner, the captain or master, or your fellow crew members. The Jones Act covers injuries that occur on the navigable waters of the United States, including oceans, inland waters, rivers and lakes.
Among many other things, the Jones Act sets out:
- Responsibilities for companies that employ seamen, including maintaining seaworthy for vessels
- Liability of captains, mates and other crew members to crew and passengers on board a vessel
- Causes of action for injuries and death on the high seas
- The process for reporting and investigating injuries and deaths at sea
Maritime law is complicated, and it can be difficult to file a Jones Act claim without the assistance of a lawyer. If you have any questions about how the Jones Act applies to you and your situation, do not hesitate to contact our firm for a free consultation.
Learn More About Injury Claims Under The Jones Act
If you have been injured at sea and are interested in your options for pursuing a claim under the Jones Act, call the experienced maritime attorneys at Frischhertz & Impastato, in Louisiana, at 504-264-9915 or toll free at 866-920-5611. We offer free initial consultations, which you may also schedule by using our online form. Based in New Orleans, our lawyers represent injured sailors throughout southern Louisiana, including offshore workers.
Se habla español.