Houston Jones Act Attorney

Your Rights Under the Jones Act

The purpose of the Jones Act is to protect workers injured while involved in their work on a vessel. In order to be covered by the Act, the seaman must establish that his or her job is not land-based and his or her presence on the vessel was not temporary and the vessel must be in active operation. Per the Act, the term "vessel" covers various offshore oil rigs, jack-up rigs, drill ships, platforms, barges, freight ships, crew boats, tugs and tow boats, fishing boats, casino boats, passenger vessels and more. If you have been injured in circumstances which satisfy these conditions, your Houston maritime lawyer can help you pursue compensation under the terms of the Jones Act.

Per the Act, if your injury was caused by an unseaworthy vessel or the slightest negligence on behalf of your employer, you have the right to make a claim for certain types of compensation. A vessel may be deemed unseaworthy if factors such as defective equipment, insufficient workers, hazardous surfaces or similar issues are present. Any condition which could have been avoided had the company properly maintained, inspected and corrected the vessel suggests liability on its behalf.

Jones Act Benefits

The attorneys at Amaro Law Firm are dedicated advocates for your rights. We can help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries and will fight relentlessly for your best interests. Benefits under the Jones Act include maintenance, cure and damages for personal injury. Maintenance includes room and board, including food and basic necessities while you recover and cure covers necessary medical care. Wages lost for a voyage missed due to the injury must also be paid, regardless of any fault of the employer.

If you have been injured in your work on a vessel, contact a Houston Jones Act lawyer for help.