Jones Act Lawyer / Attorney

Generally speaking, the Jones Act provides a negligence-based cause of action to seamen who are assigned to a vessel or group of vessels on navigable waters and have been injured because of their employer's negligence and in connection with their work. Vessels include such traditional modes of maritime transport as ships, boats, towboats, and tugs as well as certain barges, movable rigs, and movable platforms. Navigable waters include navigable rivers (including, obviously, the Mississippi River), lakes, bayous, and areas of the Gulf. If you are a captain, engineer, deckhand, rigger, roustabout, or other crew member who has been hurt in the service of your vessel, you may have a Jones Act claim.

Injuries covered under the Jones Act may include the traumas one generally thinks of as being involved in an accident as well as repetitive-motion injuries, exposures to noxious fumes, vibration injuries, hearing loss, and exposure to hazardous materials such as asbestos and exposures resulting in silicosis. Additionally, covered injuries may include both new complaints as well as aggravations of pre-existing conditions. The Jones Act requires Jones Act employers to provide proper training, a safe workplace, and a competent crew for their employees. Jones Act seamen may seek damages that include medical and housing expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and loss of earning capacity.

If you are a seaman and you have been injured as a result of your employer's negligence, contact the Colvin | Brothers Law Firm immediately. The attorneys at Colvin | Brothers Law Firm are familiar with the Jones Act and have successfully represented clients in numerous Jones Act cases. We will apply our experience in representing you.