The Jones Act & a Boat Accident Law Firm in Lafayette: How We Can Help

Seamen, or any workers who serve on a vessel or fleet of vessels, undergo high physical demands. From operating heavy industrial equipment to managing the safety of their team, great knowledge and physical endurance are needed to complete their work. However, maritime work can also be highly dangerous, including slips and falls, muscle strains through repetitive injuries, falling objection, and even falling overboard. If you or a loved one has suffered a boat crash, you can benefit from a skilled boat accident law firm like Domengeaux Wright Roy & Edwards in Lafayette. With protection under the Jones Act and the help of an experienced attorney, you have greater chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. 

To begin, let us help you better understand the Jones Act and why you should reach out to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

What is the Jones Act?

The Jones Act, also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 was established to support commercial activity and defense in the case of war. This statute, 46 U.S.C. § 30104, protects the rights of seamen in the instance of death or personal injury. The injured or the surviving family of the injured are given the right to bring legal action against the employer for negligence.

“A seaman injured in the course of employment or, if the seaman dies from the injury, the personal representative of the seaman may elect to bring a civil action at law, with the right of trial by jury, against the employer. Laws of the United States regulating recovery for personal injury to, or death of, a railway employee apply to an action under this section.”

This federal law is beneficial to seamen and their families as they are not entitled to workers’ compensation. The Jones Act offers legal aid to these workers to help recover the money lost to medical bills, time off work, or even the family’s funeral costs in the case of death. Under the Jones Act, employers are held to high standards of safety and performance, and negligent acts that endanger seamen can call for legal action. 

Negligence under this act includes injuries from:

  • Unsafe working environments or poor training
  • Broken or poorly maintained equipment
  • Negligence or violence of a coworker
  • Grease or oil on deck

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while working on a cargo boat, tour boat, freighter, or other types of vessels, gather the details of your crash and reach out to our boat accident law firm in Lafayette as soon as possible to review your case.

How Can a Lafayette Boat Accident Law Firm Benefit You?

The injuries you sustain while working as a seaman can have far-reaching consequences. This may lead to physical disability, a loss of work and income, or even a loss of life. You deserve compensation for your damages and emotional trauma, but taking on a maritime injury claim alone can be extremely difficult. Let our seasoned in maritime attorney give you the defense you need!

To pursue a valid and successful claim, the injured or surviving family must be able to prove that negligence, either caused by unsafe conditions, improper training, or another’s involvement, led to their death or injury. If you have worked on a ship or boat and suffered a maritime accident, the law firm of Domengeaux Wright Roy & Edwards in Lafayette can help protect your rights. From reviewing your case to gathering evidence and even defending you in court, our team of lawyers is dedicated to helping you reach the outcome you deserve. 

Reach Out to Domengeaux Wright Roy & Edwards As Soon As Possible

After your crash, contacting a boat accident law firm like ours in Lafayette is of the utmost importance. Our lawyers understand the complexities of maritime law, and we are prepared to boldly defend your case. Call us as soon as possible at 337-291-HURT (4878) or send us a message. Your initial review is free and confidential. Trust us to handle your claim with care and your defense with passion, no matter how big or small.