GULF COAST Law blog

Understanding the distinction between maritime law and personal injury law is critical when charting your course of action after a marine accident. Maritime law governs incidents and issues arising on navigable waters.

On the other hand, there’s personal injury law, which operates a bit differently, focusing on acts of negligence occurring on land resulting in physical or psychological harm.

Maritime workers are entitled to file a claim and receive compensation under the Jones Act in the event of an on-the-job injury. However, there are some important tips and steps to take into consideration before filing a claim.

If an employee was injured due to negligence on the part of their employer or another employee who was working with them during their shift, then they may be able to file a Jones Act claim against their employer and possibly any other at-fault parties involved in the incident as well.

Every job carries certain risks, but there are few professions as dangerous as working on the open seas. This is why the United States Congress passed the Jones Act in 1920 to provide legal rights and compensation for maritime workers who sustain injuries due to their job.

If you are a dockside worker and have been injured in a work-related incident, then you may be wondering what rights you have. Generally speaking, workers who are employed by companies that transport goods over water—such as fishing boats or cargo ships—qualify for coverage under the Jones Act. 

Maritime work is inherently risky, as workers are often exposed to a variety of hazardous conditions, including extreme weather, long hours, and dangerous machinery. Unfortunately, these risks can lead to potentially life-altering injuries. It’s important for maritime workers to understand the most common types of maritime injuries and their associated impacts in order to take steps to protect themselves from harm.