When citizens and workers in Texas are hurt within state boundaries, they can count on Texas state law to provide remedies for compensation. What happens, however, to workers who are out at sea? In these cases, maritime workers-such as sailors and offshore workers-are protected by a federal law known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, or the “Jones Act.”
If you are a maritime worker that has suffered an injury while on the job, a knowledgeable and dedicated Texas injury lawyer at McLaurin Law is ready to hear from you. Our firm is well-versed in the federal laws that govern injured maritime workers. We’re prepared to aggressively navigate these cases toward maximum compensation throughout every stage of our client’s claim.
Are you ready to learn more about your options under the Jones Act and other maritime laws? Contact our firm today.
The Jones Act allows American seamen who have been hurt on the job to sue their employer for financial damages (if the employer did indeed contribute to the injury). “Seamen” applies to any worker who spends much of their job working on a vessel that is considered in navigation.
To be “in navigation,” a vessel must be:
The Jones Act requires that a worker spend at least 30% of their time on the clock on the vessel to be considered a seaman. If you believe you have a viable claim under the Jones Act, contact us at McLaurin Law today.
The Jones Act is not the only federal law in place that provides certain worker protections in instances that occur off the mainland. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), for example, provides workers’ compensation benefits to some offshore workers and the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) can allow bereaved families of these workers to seek compensation in the wake of a tragedy, as well. The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) also provides medical and rehabilitation benefits for workers engaged in the loading/unloading or building of ships.
If you believe your injury is covered under one of these federal laws, our injury advocates are ready to speak with you. Contact our firm today to request a consultation.
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Typically, the answer to this is absolutely not. Insurance companies are looking out for their own best interests and will try to get you to settle for an offer that is far below what you deserve. At McLaurin Law, we can help you seek an appropriate settlement.
After an accident, you should typically file a claim with the insurance provider of the negligent party who is responsible for your accident. It is important that you move with haste in filing a personal injury claim with the insurance carrier after an injury has occurred. Should a lawsuit eventually become necessary, it is also important to keep in mind that in the state of Texas, you must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the date the injury occurred.
Your number one priority should be your well-being. Seek out medical advice as soon as possible to ensure that you get the treatment you need. You should also move quickly to consult with an attorney to assist you with your personal injury claim. Critical events occur early in the personal injury claims process—such as interviews with adjusters and early damages assessments—so do not delay speaking with an attorney.
Browse our growing library of multimedia educational content to better understand the rules and processes involved in your Texas injury case or insurance claim. Review the items relevant to your issue, and let us know your questions.
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We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your question or to schedule an appointment if requested.
Office Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Available by Phone: 24/7
