Jones Act protects the rights of maritime workers

A maritime accident can expose seamen and oil rig workers to severe sickness, injury, loss of income and death.  Victims may lose the ability to work for extended periods, leaving them unable to provide for their families. The Jones Act is a federal law that protects those who have been injured at sea. Workers hurt on a Gulf Coast Rig, for example, can seek restitution under the Jones Act through a Texas personal injury lawyer.

Maritime Workers- Facing Risks Everyday

Those who work at sea know that it is risky. But that does not excuse their employers from being held liable for accidents due to negligence. The Jones Act is based on the notion that if a worker is injured due to another party’s negligence, then the negligent individual is legally responsible for the accident. This federal law not only protects maritime workers, it is designed to deter negligence.

One of the most common claims in cases involving the Jones Act relates to unseaworthy vessels. It is the legal responsibility of the owner to provide a vessel that is well equipped and maintained to make sure it poses no hazards to workers’ safety. Furthermore, not only must the vessel be equipped with adequate safety appliances, it must also be staffed with competent workers. If a worker suffers an accident at sea due to inadequacies of the vessel or the staff, then the owner of the vessel can be held liable for workers’ injuries.

Texas personal injury lawyer can help

Jim Adler is an experienced lawyer who has dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of personal injury victims. He is the founder of the Texas legal firm Jim S. Adler & Associates. If you have been injured while working at sea, Jim S. Adler & Associates will fight to guarantee that your rights under the Jones Act are protected and that you get the settlement you deserve. Fill out the free case review form today.