In 1920 Congress passed the Merchant Marine Act. This act has become to be known today as the Jones Act. The act contains federal laws which govern the maritime industry, including work-related injuries for those in the service of a vessel.
Unlike normal worker’s compensation and protections, negligent accident compensation under the Jones Act is typically higher and offers other added benefits for injured seamen. In addition, the statute of limitations to file a claim at either the state or federal level is three years.
Seamen have several rights under the Jones Act. It is to your benefit to be aware of these rights and what you should do in the event you are injured while in the service of a vessel. To learn more about seamen’s rights, employer responsibilities, and types of vessels the Jones Act covers, please continue reviewing the following infographic.
If you have or a loved one has been injured while in the service of a vessel, contact the maritime and Jones Act lawyers at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P. for legal advice.
