As a Jones Act shipping employee, you’re entitled to certain rights and privileges. After your work injury in Lafayette, Louisiana, a lawyer can help you protect your rights.
Your maritime injury lawyer can file a claim if you:
Recourse against Employers Who Violate Jones Act Shipping Regulations
If you have cause to file a lawsuit against a shipping company or employer, you must do so within 3 years of the accident or incident in question. Under general maritime law, you’re not entitled to a trial by jury; however, if the Jones Act applies to your case, then you’re eligible for a juried trial.
Although the Jones Act is a federal law, Jones Act claims may be filed in state courts. This does have some ramifications – if you file your claim in federal court, you have the right to choose whether to have a trial by jury or by judge. In state court, either party may invoke the right to a jury trial.
In general, you will qualify as a Jones Act “seaman” if you are assigned to a vessel. A Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer is able to give you more information about whether or not you qualify as a Jones act shipping employee.
The Jones Act charges employees with a “featherweight” burden to prove that their injuries were caused by the employer or while employed. This provision is particularly useful to those who have been injured in the same area or body part in the past.
Speak with a Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer who has experience handling cases like yours.
Jones Act shipping regulations protect:
Don’t let employer excuses stand in between you and safe working conditions, adequate benefits and compensation, or any of your other rights.
Contact a Lafayette, Louisiana Lawyer
Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A Lafayette, Louisiana lawyer from The Young Firm in New Orleans, Louisiana can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act. Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S.Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.
When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today for a FREE case evaluation – call toll-free at 866-666-5129.
