The Jones Act provides crucial legal protections for seamen who are injured while working aboard vessels on US navigable waters. In 2021 alone, there were 621 reported injuries among maritime workers in the United States. The majority of these injuries (84.6%) involved crew members, showing just how vital the Jones Act’s protections are. Understanding your rights under this maritime law is important if you suffer an injury at sea.
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The Jones Act Extends Legal Protections to Seamen
The Merchant Marine Act of 1920, often called the Jones Act, allows injured sailors to pursue compensation from their employers. It does this by extending the protections given to railway workers to cover seamen. The experienced Houston Jones Act attorney, Ryan Zehl from Zehl and Associates explained it better: “Under this law, seamen can file a Jones Act lawsuit against ship owners for injuries caused by negligence and their liability to maintain a seaworthy vessel”.
The Jones Act applies to “seamen,” which includes crew members, captains, and other employees who spend at least 30% of their work time aboard vessels on navigable waters. With nearly 69% of all goods traded by the US transported via waterways, predominantly by seagoing vessels, the Jones Act protects a massive portion of the US workforce. In fact, maritime vessels account for 40% of US international trade value and nearly 70% of trade weight.
Damages Available to Injured Seamen
If you qualify as a seaman, the Jones Act allows you to recover damages for injuries caused by your employer’s negligence or failure to provide a seaworthy vessel. The available damages include:
- Lost income, both past and future
- Medical expenses, both past and future
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Disfigurement
An attorney can help calculate the full value of your losses and fight for maximum compensation.
Where to File a Jones Act Lawsuit
Jones Act cases can be filed in either state or federal court. For certain types of accidents, it may be advantageous to file in state court to take advantage of differences in laws and procedures. An attorney knowledgeable about the Jones Act can advise you on the best venue for your particular case.
Statute of Limitations on Maritime Injuries covered by the Jones Act
It is crucial to act quickly to preserve your rights after an accident at sea. Under the Jones Act, you have just 3 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit against the ship owner. Failure to act within this strict 3-year deadline could destroy your right to recover damages. Contact an attorney right away to avoid any statute of limitations issues.
Get a Jones Act Lawyer to Protect Your Rights
If you have suffered an injury aboard a vessel, it is advisable to consult with an experienced Jones Act attorney. They can fully explain your rights and options, determine if you qualify as a seaman, and handle your case to maximize your compensation. Don’t delay in seeking legal advice.
The Jones Act provides vital protection to seamen, who undertake risky work moving goods across the nation’s waterways. If you are injured on the job at sea, understand your rights and don’t hesitate to get legal assistance. With an attorney’s help, you can hold negligent ship owners accountable and recover fair compensation.
