How the Jones Act Protects You in the Event of Injury

Working on an offshore vessel can be a very dangerous job. Luckily, most of the time, you are covered under the Jones Act. If you’ve become sick or injured on the job, you may be eligible to receive compensation.

The Jones Act is a piece of maritime law that is designed to protect offshore workers. Seamen who suffer illness or injury while working can file a compensation claim. The Jones Act often covers medical expenses, lost wages, and lost earning capacity.

Non-economic damages are also covered under the Jones Act. You may receive compensation because of pain and suffering or punitive damages. Those who are covered under the Jones Act will benefit from any type of damage that happened on the job.

You may be asking if you are covered under the Jones Act. If you were working on a vessel under the Jones Act, then yes. In order for a vessel to qualify, the vessel must be owned and crewed by U.S. citizens, as well as built and operated within the United States. A vessel is considered a vessel when it is afloat on navigable waters, capable of moving under its own power and currently operating.

If you think that you may have a claim under the Jones Act, it is important that you contact your experienced attorneys immediately. Your Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P., Accident & Injury Lawyers representative can assist you in filing a claim.