Louisiana Commercial Divers: Your Injury and the Jones Act

Gulf of Mexico commercial divers take risks every day on the job. Even though safety regulations have improved in recent years, injuries and even death occur regularly. That is why every diver needs to know if and how the Jones Act covers you.

The Jones Act covers anyone who qualifies as a "seaman," a term that has been under scrutiny by the courts for many years. Just how a diver qualifies as a seaman and, therefore, for the benefits of the Jones Act, may be murky. Hiring a qualified Jones Act attorney is your best bet if you are injured on the job. The following questions can help to determine if your commercial diving work is covered and if you can file a Jones Act lawsuit:

• Are you employed by a commercial diving contractor?
• Do you contribute to the function or mission of a "vessel in navigation"?
• Do you dive from a vessel that is especially equipped for commercial diving?
• Do you feel that the company or employers you work for were negligent?
• Is the vessel you work on unseaworthy in any way?
• Were you well trained for the job? Was your tender well trained?
• Was your equipment well maintained?

These and many more questions must be answered to determine your Jones Act eligibility. And, if the Jones Act does not cover you, you may be covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act. But do not let your employer tell you what your options are if you are injured while diving. Too many times, they will steer you away from the strong legal protection of the Jones Act.

In order to be sure you receive the very best medical care and legal options following a diving accident, contact the maritime attorneys at The Young Firm, with over 50 years experience in representing Louisiana and Texas seamen. Call today toll free at 866-938-6113 for a free consultation.