The Jones Act, also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a federal statute that is designed to promote and protect the American merchant marine. What that means is this law was passed by Congress to protect the crew members of ship. If you are a crew member of a ship and are considering finding New York Jones Act attorneys here are the facts you need to consider to get the legal help you need.
What Can the Jones Act do for Me
If you were or are a crew member and were injured on the job, you may be enticed to compensation under the Jones Act. This also applies to workers who, while not on a ship itself, were still injured on or near a waterway. It’s imperative that you contact a Jones Act attorney if you are inured while on the job. They can help determine if you have a viable claim.
Who Does the Jones Act Cover
In order to be covered by the Jones Act, you need to be a maritime employee at the time of the injury. The injury also needs to be due to the negligence of the vessel’s owner or other employees. This can include a ship that hasn’t had needed upkeep, a dock, or waterway under the same conditions. You have three years from becoming aware that your injuries have been caused under these conditions to file a claim under the Jones Act, but it is important to contact New York Jones Act attorneys as soon as possible.
Why Hire a Jones Act Attorney
Jones Act attorneys are experts in maritime law and can help you navigate a complex legal system. It’s important to remember that your employer often doesn’t have your best interests at heart when it comes to workers compensation, the Jones Act, and being injured on the job. Their first priority will be to protect their assets. A good Jones Act attorney will be there to fight for you and make sure that not only you can compensation for you injuries, but the resources you need to recover.
The Jones Act is a maritime law in the United States that is designed to protect crew members from being injured due to negligence. The law specifically covers workers whether or not they are working on the vessel in question and regardless if that negligence is on the part of the employer or another employee. A Jones Act attorney is vital to securing compensation through this statute. Keep these facts in mind and if you are injured on the job, contact a Jones Act attorney as soon as possible.