The Jones Act is a federal statute that was passed in 1920 to help protect merchant marines – which is why many people don’t know whether it also protects today’s offshore workers. The simplest answer is that many (but not all) injuries suffered by people working in the maritime industry – including offshore oil rig workers – are covered by the Jones Act.
The Jones Act can apply to injuries caused by accidents involving faulty equipment, falling objects, poor training of employees, explosions, fires, chemical burns, hurricanes and more. The protections provided to workers through the Jones Act include the right to receive compensation for their injuries, pain and suffering, medical bills and payment for lost wages.
While the Jones Act was more straightforward when it was passed nearly 100 years ago, it has become extremely complex over the years regarding how it can be applied to the many different types of maritime jobs and the circumstances surrounding various on-the-job injuries. That’s why it is extremely important for anyone who is injured offshore to contact an attorney who is experienced in maritime law and has a thorough understanding of the Jones Act and how it affects various types of personal injury cases.
Injured offshore? Our attorneys have the maritime law experience you need.
If you or someone you love is injured in an offshore accident, it’s vital that you contact an attorney who is experienced in maritime law. At Morrow, Gates and Morrow our attorneys have many decades of experience in handling cases that involve maritime law and the Jones Act. We have the legal skills and knowledge needed to help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
