Offshore labor is not for the faint of heart. Ship crew members assume difficult roles in a hazardous setting. Sailors and other offshore workers are at risk for injury, disability, and death.
Despite maritime workers’ dangers, they may not be protected by local state laws.
If you sustained seaside injuries as a maritime worker, an offshore injury and Jones Act accident lawyer in Lake Charles can determine if you have other options to pursue damages. Learn about the Jones Act and who it protects.
Damages You May Recover After an Offshore Injury
If you suffer a workplace accident aboard a seafaring vessel, you have a legal right to claim damages under the Jones Act. What compensation you may be entitled to depend on the losses you experience.
Repayment for Injuries
Offshore accidents often result in injuries. You may be able to receive repayment for medical expenses related to your accident. Your offshore injury case could allow you to be compensated for:
- Medical diagnosis
- Hospital stay
- Surgery
- Medical equipment
- Prescription medication
- Future medical care
Your mental health is as important as your physical well-being. If you suffer mental anguish, you may seek pain and suffering damages as well.
Lost Income
In addition to the cost of medical care, you may be entitled to recover lost wages for time away from work while you heal. If you are permanently disabled or will take a long time to regain your health, you may pursue a settlement for future earnings. You may claim reduced earning capacity if an offshore injury prevented you from returning to your field of work.
For a free legal consultation with a Offshore Injury and Jones Act Accident lawyer serving Lake Charles, call (337) 377-0514
What You Need to Know About the Jones Act
Section 27 of the 1920 Merchant Marine Act is commonly referred to as the Jones Act. This federal law serves two purposes: First, it governs United States waterway usage. Second, it allows offshore workers to claim compensation after worksite accidents.
The Jones Act applies to you so long as you are an offshore worker who primarily works as a crew member on a seafaring vessel. You can file a case under the Jones Act if:
- Your injury happened away from shore, on a boat or ship
- You work on one ship or multiple ships with the same owner
- You were carrying out your work duties at the time of your accident
- Your accident was caused by negligence in the workplace
Determining who qualifies as an offshore worker under the Jones Act and which benefits you may claim may be tricky. An offshore injury and Jones Act accident attorney in Lake Charles can review your case to establish your rights under the Jones Act.
Who Is Protected by the Jones Act?
Only qualified offshore workers are eligible to file a claim under the Jones Act. Offshore workers must have been in an accident caused by negligence on the part of their employer, the shipowner, or another crew member.
You may file a claim under the Jones Act if you are a:
- Ship captain
- Merchant ship crew member
- Sailor
- Cook
- Pilot
If your job isn’t listed here, a lawyer from our law firm can confirm your employment category. The Jones Act protects all manner of offshore employees.
Click to contact our Lake Charles Personal Injury Attorneys today
The Jones Act and Negligence
For you to recover damages after an offshore injury, you need to prove that your accident was caused by workplace negligence. A successful Jones Act case will establish liability by proving:
- A dangerous condition existed
- Employees lacked proper training
- Subpar worker safety standards
- The ship was not seaworthy
A maritime worker’s only remedy for a worksite injury is to initiate a Jones Act lawsuit. Unlike workers’ compensation, a Jones Act case hinges on your ability to establish your employer’s negligence.
How a Lake Charles Jones Act Lawyer Can Help You
Jones Act lawsuits are complicated, but working with a lawyer can simplify the process. Our team will fight for your right to compensation after an offshore injury. A Lake Charles offshore injury and Jones Act accident attorney can:
- Manage legal paperwork
- Collect evidence to prove negligence
- Negotiate with insurance
- Take eyewitness statements
- Discuss conditions with offshore safety experts
- Review maritime worker safety measures
- Represent you in court
Team Up With Morris Bart
Our offshore injury and Jones Act accident lawyers in Lake Charles at Morris Bart understand the complicated requirements to claim compensation after an offshore accident. Call us 24/7 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can start working on your injury case while you focus on your recovery.
Questions?Call (337) 377-0514
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
