While every job has risks, few occupations are as hazardous as those in the maritime industry.
Should You File Your Claim Under the Jones Act?
Maritime workers are one of the few classes of employees that are not generally protected under traditional workers’ compensation laws. Instead of requesting compensation through a workers’ compensation insurance policy, maritime workers may file a personal injury lawsuit directly against their employer. 46 U.S.C. 30104, also known as the Jones Act, establishes this right. This Act states that “seamen” are authorized to file civil lawsuits against their employers for injuries sustained while working on a maritime vessel.
How to Qualify
The term “seamen” includes any individuals whose jobs normally require work on or around vessels that travel over navigable waters, including rivers, lakes, and oceans. Individuals may be asked to demonstrate their service on a vessel to file a lawsuit under the Jones Act. A Lafayette maritime injury attorney from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can help workers confirm their employment so they may proceed with a potential lawsuit or pursue compensation.
