Defining Unseaworthy Vessels for Jones Act Claims (Part A)
Common Jones Act claims handled at a maritime injury law firm in Louisiana are typically filed against the employer of an injured seaman. When a maritime worker is employed on a vessel such as a commercial fishing boat, the worker may need a New Orleans lawyer to help file a claim against the vessel owner for cases of unseaworthiness.
Risks of an Unseaworthy Vessel
Jones Act lawyers see cases of maritime injury all the time in which an injured seaman suffers serious, permanent or fatal injuries from an accident while working. Maritime accidents that take place offshore on commercial vessels often are much more serious because it may take longer to get adequate medical attention to the injured worker.
When ships set out from port, they should be equipped for the journey in every way. If a vessel is lacking in any of the necessary features for safety, proper operation and accommodations for its crew, it may raise the potential risk for accidents and issues to arise when out at sea.
Some of the preventive measures vessel owners can take to avoid the involvement of a maritime injury law firm in Louisiana for Jones Act claims include:
performing regular maintenance and equipment checks;
making all necessary repairs to the vessel as needed;
preparing adequate stock of food and amenities for the time the vessel will be away from land;
reviewing safety equipment and ensuring proper training of crew; and
adhering to a schedule of reviews of critical equipment and systems before departure.
Even with precautions and preliminary checks such as these, cases of unseaworthiness still can arise after a vessel has left port. If you’re injured on a vessel at sea and you believe it was due to the vessel’s unseaworthiness, you should contact a New Orleans Jones Act lawyer. Specialized professionals in this area will be able to help you determine if you can file a claim.
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