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more_legal_areas maritimeThe Jones Act was enacted to cover seamen, which includes crewmembers and masters of the crew. When the Jones Act was passed in 1920, injured seamen were able to rely on a statute to better ensure compensation if getting injured while at sea. Now, in order to successfully win a Jones Act lawsuit, the injured seamen must just be able to prove negligence on the part of the employer.
The injured seamen can try to recover losses through the Jones Act if the employer committed an act that was the cause of the injury or if the employer failed to correct dangerous working conditions, which then led to the injury. Failure to show the employer was negligent will mean the injured seamen must show the vessel was not seaworthy at the time the injury was sustained. An attorney that has specialized in maritime law will be able to review the circumstances surrounding the injury and advise the seamen if a strong Jones Act lawsuit exists.
If a seaman has been injured on the water, it is always a good idea to contact a maritime lawyer. The attorney will be able to make certain the injured is aware of his/her legal rights and options and if the Jones Act may be applicable. Employers can sometimes try to downplay an injury because of fear of litigation that you are entitled to. Suffering an injury can result in lost wages, changes in lifestyle, pain and suffering, as well as other undesirable conditions that can be very serious or permanent.