For the bulk of laborers who are injured in the course of their work on a vessel, the advisable course of action is to consult with a Jones Act lawyer as quickly as they can.
Maritime personnel who qualify as seamen are sheltered under a federal law referred to as the Jones Act, which allows for the compensation of this division of maritime employees in instances of injury. Even if you are sure of your status as a seaman and your rights under this legislation, an attorney ought to be talked to if you are injured while working. Because of the complications involved in this law, a maritime lawyer is best equipped to ensure you obtain the full reparations you are entitled to.
For What Purpose Should I Call A Jones Act Attorney?
Any person who is injured while operating on a boat or vessel and who is covered under the Jones Act should contact an attorney who is an expert in this maritime law specialty, which is a component of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920.
The law is designed to defend the rights of persons injured on the job at sea. It includes those determined to be seamen; however, the definition of seamen has been defined broadly. The qualifications determine the employee has to be assigned to and have a substantial connection with a vessel in navigation.
Even though you may think this does not apply to you, a Jones Act lawyer ought to be conferred with to determine whether or not you fall under this definition.
Why Would I Require A Lawyer?
If you are certain of your qualification as a seaman, you could conclude that settling the case on your own is the best option. There are several arguments why this is not always the preferred choice.
In order to recover compensation for injuries under the Jones Act law, the injured individual has to prove that carelessness on the part of his or her employer contributed to the accident. The negligence does not have to be major; even a little bit of carelessness that led to a seaman’s injuries can make the worker suitable for a claim in accordance to this law. However, proving neglect can be puzzling, and the task of showing and assembling evidence is required to hold to court practices and meet the plaintiff’s burden of proof. To add to the probability of a positive result for your suit, an attorney who is highly trained in these instances is best armed to deal with this undertaking.
Ahead of your case making it to court, you could be offered a settlement by your place of employment. It could be convenient to accept a rapid settlement without a maritime lawyer to speak on your behalf, however any settlement your employer presents could be far less than what you have entitlement to.
An experienced Jones Act lawyer will be on YOUR side, educating you of the best choices and your rights under the law, and vying for the complete amount of compensation you are entitled to under maritime laws.
Grievances under this maritime law additionally have a cut-off date. Your lawyer will be able to ensure that all specifications are adhered to, including filing within the statute of limitations, which is 3 years.
The Jones Act lawyers at Maintenance and Cure have decades of experience helping seamen who have been hurt on the job and are candidates for benefits under maritime law.
