Jones Act Claim – Hurt by a Co-Worker

As a Jones Act seaman, you are exposed to hazards on a daily basis. You work with heavy machinery, tackle, fishing gear and other equipment, all while battling the weather and sea conditions. The work environment on a vessel can lead to maritime injury, but so can the actions of a co-worker. If you have been injured in a maritime accident that was caused by a co-worker or fellow crewmember, you may have a Jones Act claim.

The Jones Act provides protection for seamen who have been injured during maritime employment. To have a Jones Act claim, you must prove that there was some negligence or fault on the part of the vessel’s owners, operators or officers. If the negligent actions of a co-worker caused your maritime injuries, you may also have a Jones Act case.

When a co-workers’ negligence causes injuries to a Jones Act seaman, the employer can be held responsible. The co-worker may have done something unreasonable or failed to perform a reasonable act that would have prevented your injuries. Depending on the details of the Jones Act case, there could even be a claim for unseaworthiness.

You may have the right to sue your employer for your injuries in a Jones Act lawsuit. A successful Jones Act suit could entitle you to compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, both past and present, medical expenses, disfigurement and mental anguish. The settlement can be substantial.

There is a statute of limitations as to when a Jones Act claim can be filed. If you have been injured in an offshore accident caused by a fellow crewmember, contact a maritime injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.