Metairie Maritime Injury Lawyers
If you are injured while working as a member of a crew on a vessel on navigable waters, you are considered a "seaman" and are covered by a federal law known as the Jones Act. Unlike workers' compensation benefits, which are limited, the Jones Act provides full compensation for everything you have lost in an accident, including lost wages, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Many people who do not consider themselves seaman are covered by the Jones Act. For example, oil rig workers may be considered seaman. If the rig is on navigable waters and can be moved, it is a vessel under the law.
At the Ates Law Firm, we offer a free initial consultation to determine if your on-the-job injury is covered by the Jones Act. With law offices in Destrehan and Gretna, our lawyers represent oil rig workers in Greater New Orleans, the River Parishes and throughout Louisiana.
Proving Employer Fault
The Jones Act requires you to prove negligence on the part of your employer before you can bring a cause of action. However, "featherweight" causation is sufficient. If employer negligence played any part in bringing about your injury, you can file a claim against your employer, even if you knew about the risk of injury.
To prove negligence, our attorneys will use experts who can testify that your employer's negligence played a part in causing your injury.
Seaworthiness Claims
In addition to the Jones Act, you may have a cause of action under the maritime law of seaworthiness. If the vessel was unseaworthy, your employer is strictly liable for any injuries you suffer, regardless of fault.
"Seaworthy" means fit for the purpose. It doesn't necessarily mean that the ship was about to sink. A missing piece of equipment or even the training of the crew can make a vessel unseaworthy.
For More Information About Our New Orleans Jones Act Lawyers
We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and answer your questions. To talk to our Gretna, Destrehan or New Orleans Jones Act lawyers, call 504-264-9524 or fill out the contact form on this website.
