Home > Blog > Offshore Injuries Are Protected by the Jones Act

Any individual that has worked on an offshore oil rig recognizes that coworker or employer negligence is often the cause of many of the accidents that happen on an oil rig at sea. This often includes deck accidents, equipment failure, falls, slips, falling cargo, fires, and explosions. Because of that, offshore workers hire maritime attorneys as a way to seek compensation for the injuries and suffering they have endured while working at sea.

Negligence by employers or co-workers is typically the contributing factor in a variety of serious accidents at sea that involve offshore fatalities or injuries. Oftentimes, the results of these accidents could be catastrophic. It could create a life-threatening injury or serious illness that can have a dramatic impact on lost wages and high medical costs. As a result, litigation is often initiated by an offshore injury lawyer to provide protection to the offshore worker.

In addition to tangible expenses involved in the injury, there is often intangible cost to both the injured party and his or her family. It can take a tremendous toll on the family with lost wages both currently and in the future. A competent maritime attorney with years of experience can help protect the offshore workers’ rights based on current maritime injury law.

The Jones Act

Over 100 years ago, the federal government initiated the Merchant Marine Act, often referred to as the Jones Act of 1920[i]. This federal law was designed to protect the well-being and health of offshore workers that were employed in the national waters and along the US ports.

Additionally, maritime injury law attorneys also handle harbor workers and the rights of longshore workers. Nearly every type of ship work is dangerous and requires the skills of a competent marine injury law attorney to help the injured parties receive the fair compensation they are due.

[i] http://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Jones+Act+of+1920

Other References:

http://www.offshoreinjuryfirm.com/Offshore-Injuries.aspx

http://www.maritime-injury-lawyer.com/

http://www.thebrannlawfirm.com/maritime-injuries.html

http://www.cochranfirm.com/civil/maritime-offshore-rig.html