Prior to the passage of the Jones Act, seamen had relatively few options if they were injured while working. The Jones Act passed as part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, provides much-needed protections and rights for seamen who are hurt on the job. However, obtaining compensation through the Jones Act can be difficult without the help of a qualified attorney.
At the Law Office of Roy A. Boujaoude, P.C., we represent seamen who have been seriously injured while working. Our lawyers are committed to helping injury victims obtain the largest recovery allowed under state and federal law. If you were injured while working aboard a vessel, you might be entitled to file a claim under the Jones Act. Contact our office today at (713) 690-2277 to schedule a free consultation.
The Jones Act is a federal law that allows seamen injured or killed within the course of their employment to bring a personal injury lawsuit against their employer. Jones Act claims, however, can be complicated since not all individuals who work on a boat may qualify.
The Jones Act is fairly limited in scope, although it provides significant protection to those who fall under its definition. The best way to ensure that your Jones Act claim is successfully filed is by consulting with an attorney as early in the process as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and determine your legal options.
In order to be eligible to file a claim under the Jones Act, you must qualify as a seaman. A seaman, according to the Act, is someone who spends 30% or more of their work in service of the vessel and “substantially contributes” to the mission of the ship.
In addition to meeting the requirements as a seaman, the vessel you work on must also meet certain requirements. To be eligible under the Jones Act, the vessel must be “in navigation” meaning it cannot be dry-docked and must be capable of moving.
Anyone working on a vessel that meets all of the requirements above including that their boat is in navigation may be considered a seaman.
Individuals who may be eligible to file a claim under the Jones Act:
If you are a maritime employee injured within the course of work, you need to act quickly as you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim for damages. Working with an attorney can help ensure that you meet all legal deadlines and file the proper documents to start the legal process.
Were you injured while working as a seaman? Contact our office at (713) 690-2277 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve after an accident. There are no fees unless we win. Call now to get started.
