Maritime Acts

Enacted by federal and local governments, maritime acts are pieces of legislation that can:

require seafarers to undergo specific licensing and carry certain equipment
require maritime workers to undergo specific training and safety course
set forth safety regulations and procedures
compensate injured workers in the event they are injured while working a maritime job

The United States Coast Guard, along with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, are among the primary agencies that enforce maritime law.

The Jones Maritime Act

Also referred to as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act is a piece of federal maritime law that allows seamen (i.e. captains, crew members, passengers) to collect monetary settlements if they:

are injured while working in a maritime occupation
can prove that their injuries were caused or intensified by the negligence of another individual or an equipment manufacturer

The Jones Act often compensates injured maritime workers for a range of offshore injuries, including (but not limited to):

bone fractures
burns
disfigurement
loss of limb
neck, back, shoulder and/or knee injuries
permanent disability
repetitive stress injuries
traumatic brain injury

While the precise amount of a Jones Act settlement will vary, based on the type and severity of the injury incurred, in most cases, these awards:

are larger than monies awarded via traditional workers' compensation laws
include compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering

Maritime Act 1959

Formally known as the Maritime Jurisdiction Act of 1959, this piece of maritime legislation gave a viable legal definition to a number of marine vessels and concepts, including (but not limited to):

exclusive fishery limits
fishery conservation areas
foreign ships
internal waters
islands
low-tide elevation
nautical miles
ships (This includes a detailed description of any kind of vessel – regardless of how it is propelled – that can be navigated above or below water)

Compensation for Maritime Injuries

If you or a loved one is injured while working in the maritime industry, it is likely that compensation will be available for your injuries and losses.

By meeting with experienced maritime lawyers, prospective plaintiffs can find out if they are eligible for a settlement via the Jones Act. Those who qualify and opt to work with a professional, aggressive maritime attorney can recover compensation for damages, which might include:

medical/hospital bills
lost wages and earning capacity
permanent disabilities and disfigurement
mental anguish and depression

Have you or a loved one been injured as a result of a maritime act violation? If so, contact us today to consult with an experienced maritime attorney who will thoroughly evaluate your case for free and can help you seek the compensation you deserve.

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Maritime Law

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Maritime Acts

The Jones Maritime Act

Maritime Act 1959

Compensation for Maritime Injuries

Other Areas of Law