Exposed wires, slippery decks, rough seas – working on a boat is a dangerous way to make a living. What’s more, advanced medical assistance is often several hours away.
If a sailor sustains an injury while working on a vessel, he or she may be able to recover compensation by making a claim under the Jones Act. This legislation is one of three key pillars of U.S. merchant marine law, according to the American Maritime Congress.
The Jones Act allows sailors and seamen to file claims against their crew members, boat owner or captain if they suffer injuries as a result of negligence.
If you were injured while working on a boat, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A personal injury attorney in Lake Charles will help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
We will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. If your case goes to trial, our personal injury lawyers have the litigation experience to represent your interests in court.
Let’s take a look at five common injuries on boats:
Injuries from Electric Shock
Exposed wires and unattended electrical connections can cause fatal electric shocks on boats. Boat owners and captains must take reasonable steps to prevent these injuries by:
- Providing sufficient training to workers;
- Making sure employees have access to the necessary safety equipment;
- And performing reasonable maintenance to limit the risk of electric shocks.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Injuries from Machinery and Equipment
Large vessels often transport heavy and complex machinery and equipment. If crewmembers are not properly trained to handle this equipment, or if they do not have adequate safety equipment, then they are vulnerable to serious injuries.
Cuts and Bruises
Many ships have sharp equipment used to cut steel and other materials. There are also sharp edges and low doorways that can cause serious bruises or lacerations. In addition to blood loss, severe cuts can lead to infections.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
Back Injuries
Crew members are vulnerable to back injuries when they pick up heavy objects. These injuries are particularly common on boats because the surface is often unstable.
Burns
Many ships have hot pipelines, boilers, hazardous materials, and even open flames that can cause serious burns. Captains and boat owners must ensure that workers have access to the necessary safety equipment if they are vulnerable to burn injuries.
What Are the Requirements to Make a Claim Under the Jones Act?
Making a successful claim under the Jones Act is a legally complicated process, and it is advisable that claimants consult a personal injury attorney. Among other requirements, you will have to prove that your vessel was in navigation when the injury happened, that you were performing a work-related task, and that you are a seaman according to the Jones Act definition.
If you were injured while working on a boat, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A Lake Charles personal injury lawyer will help you gather evidence to make a claim under the Jones Act. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
