What Does a Jones Act Attorney Do?

If you work in the maritime industry or offshore, you may have heard about the Jones Act, a federal law designed to protect seamen who suffer injuries on the job. A Jones Act attorney plays a vital role in guiding injured maritime workers through the legal process, helping them secure the compensation they are entitled to under this law.

What Is the Jones Act?

The Jones Act, formally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, governs maritime commerce and provides important legal protections for seamen injured while working aboard vessels. Unlike standard workers' compensation laws, the Jones Act allows injured maritime workers to file a lawsuit against their employers for negligence. This law applies to a broad range of maritime workers, including those employed on fishing boats, oil rigs, tugboats, cargo ships, and other vessels.
 

The Jones Act gives injured seamen the right to sue their employer for damages if employer negligence contributed to their injury. Negligence can include anything from unsafe working conditions and lack of proper training to defective equipment or inadequate vessel maintenance. Injured workers may seek compensation for:
 

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages (both past and future)

• Pain and suffering

• Mental anguish

• Physical rehabilitation costs

Additionally, the Jones Act requires employers to provide maintenance and cure benefits, which cover daily living expenses and medical care while the injured worker recovers.

Who Benefits from the Jones Act?

The Jones Act specifically applies to seamen—workers who spend a significant portion of their employment on vessels navigating U.S. waters. This includes a variety of maritime professionals such as:
 

• Deckhands

• Engineers

• Captains

• Commercial fishermen

• Offshore oil rig workers

• Tugboat operators

If you're uncertain whether you qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, a Jones Act attorney can help you determine your eligibility and guide you through your legal options.

How Can a Jones Act Attorney Help You?

Navigating the legal complexities of the Jones Act can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with an injury. A Jones Act attorney has the expertise to assess your case, help prove employer negligence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. From gathering evidence to negotiating with employers or insurance companies, a Jones Act attorney provides the guidance and legal support injured maritime workers need.

Contact the Law Offices of Daniel Weltin for Assistance

If you’ve been injured while working at sea, understanding your rights under the Jones Act is critical. The Law Offices of Daniel Weltin specializes in maritime law and has extensive experience handling Jones Act claims. We are dedicated to helping injured seamen and offshore workers recover the compensation they need to heal and move forward.
 

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while working offshore or aboard a vessel, reach out to the Law Offices of Daniel Weltin. We’ll review your case, explain your legal rights, and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you’re entitled to. Visit our office in San Leandro, California, or call (510) 319-1904 for a free, no-obligation consultation today.