Fort Worth Jones Act Lawyer
Working in the maritime industry is fraught with danger, presenting many risks that can lead to severe injuries. If you were injured in a maritime accident in Texas, you might be eligible for compensation under the Jones Act. Pursuing these claims can be challenging for workers and their families.
At Stephens Law Firm, PLLC, our Fort Worth Jones Act lawyers have over 25 years of experience representing injured victims. We have secured more than $100 million in life-changing results for our clients. You can rely on our Fort Worth personal injury attorneys to strive for the best possible outcome in your case.
Reach out to Stephens Law Firm, PLLC, for a free consultation with a Texas maritime injury lawyer. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case, call us today at (817) 420-7000.
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How Our Fort Worth Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You Seek Compensation for a Maritime Accident or Injury
Maritime injuries can lead to permanent impairments and even wrongful death, leaving injured workers and their families to cope with immense pain, suffering, and financial burdens. At Stephens Law Firm, PLLC, our Fort Worth personal injury attorneys are committed to securing the benefits and compensation that injured workers and their families rightly deserve.
When you engage our maritime accident attorneys, here’s what you can expect us to do:
- Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the specifics of your accident and injury
- Collect evidence to prove fault and liability, collaborating with top maritime experts in the industry
- Prepare and file all necessary documents and paperwork for a Jones Act claim and any other related claims
- Manage all communications with local, state, and federal agencies concerning your injuries and claim
- Assess the value of your Jones Act claim based on your damages
- Negotiate to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages
- Take your case to trial if necessary to protect your interests
At Stephens Law Firm, PLLC, our Texas personal injury lawyers are dedicated advocates for injured victims and their families, equipped with the skills needed for both negotiation and trial.
What Is the Jones Act?
The Jones Act, a federal law, enables seamen to file personal injury lawsuits against their employers and allows families to file wrongful death lawsuits if a family member is killed on the job.
The Jones Act applies to water-going vessels and ships, mandating that owners and employers keep these vessels in seaworthy condition. If owners or employers are negligent, they can be held liable if a seaman is injured while working.
You may be covered by the Jones Act if you:
- Work on a ship that is operational and capable of moving on navigable waters;
- Contribute to the work on the vessel; and
- Spend at least 30% of your time working on the vessel.
It is important to note that you may still qualify for benefits even if your injury occurred onshore or in non-open waters.
The Jones Act covers various types of maritime workers. Jobs that might qualify for benefits under the Jones Act include:
- Captains
- Crew members
- Welders
- Commercial fishermen
- Dive instructors
- Masters of charter diving vessels
- Commercial divers
- Ship chandlers
- Other workers who meet the minimum requirements to be covered under the Jones Act
Contract workers, longshoremen, and harbor workers, however, cannot sue their employers under the Jones Act. They are protected under different legislation, such as the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
What Are the Requirements for Compensation Under the Jones Act?
Unlike in a workers’ compensation case, under the Jones Act, you must demonstrate that your employer was negligent and that this negligence directly contributed to your injuries. Negligence refers to the failure of your employer to take reasonable care to prevent accidents.
Examples of negligent conduct that could lead to a claim under the Jones Act include:
- Inadequate maintenance of the vessel or equipment
- Violations of OSHA standards
- Failing to provide necessary safety equipment or training
- Insufficient crew members on board to safely operate the ship
- Failing to stow and secure cargo safely
- Absence of necessary guard rails, elevators, hoists, and other safety features
- Lack of adequate fire extinguishment systems on board
You may also establish a claim under the Jones Act if you can show that negligence or intentional acts by crew members led to your injuries.
What Benefits Can I Receive for a Jones Act Claim in Texas?
The Jones Act includes provisions for maintenance and cure benefits. Maintenance benefits cover:
- Lost wages
- Cost of living adjustments
- Room and board
These benefits are provided from the time the seaman departs the ship until they reach maximum medical improvement (MMI). Cure benefits cover reasonable and necessary medical expenses associated with a job-related injury. Compensation for these medical expenses continues until the injured party reaches MMI.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Fort Worth Jones Act Lawyer
We recognize the challenges and risks faced by those working in the maritime industry. If you were injured while working as a seaman in Texas, we are here to assist you. Contact Stephens Law Firm, PLLC, to schedule a free case review with a Fort Worth Jones Act attorney. We are committed to fighting for the compensation you need and deserve for your maritime injury claim.
