As a seaman, it is important to have a basic understanding of the Jones Act. Originally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act is a U.S. Federal statute that regulates maritime commerce between U.S. ports and in navigable waters throughout the nation. A key part of the Jones Act covers an injured seaman's right to file a claim and seek financial compensation from an employer for injuries resulting from the negligence of a ship owner, captain or another member of the crew. A claim may also be brought against a vessel owner for the unseaworthiness of a ship, when this is the cause of the seaman's injuries.
The Jones Act covers those maritime workers who qualify as "seamen" under the act. It is important to determine whether you qualify and to get detailed information that pertains to your specific case and injuries. In addition to reviewing the videos we have included below, we welcome you to contact a Jones Act attorney at our firm for a free consultation.
