Maritime work is some of the most dangerous in the country, and offshore workers put their lives on the line every day to keep the maritime industry moving. When an injury happens offshore, it can leave a worker stranded at home, unable to earn a paycheck, and often without the benefits they’re entitled to.
At The Maritime Injury Law Firm, we stand with injured workers. Our experienced attorneys have spent decades holding vessel owners and employers accountable when their negligence causes serious harm. We know the system, we know the pressure offshore workers face—and we know how to fight back.
If you’ve been injured on the job, here’s what you need to know about employer negligence under the Jones Act.
What Is the Jones Act?
The Jones Act is a federal law that protects maritime workers, especially seamen and offshore laborers, who suffer injuries on the job. Unlike land-based workers, seamen aren’t covered by standard workers’ compensation. Instead, they are entitled to maintenance and cure benefits under the Jones Act when they are injured, whether or not the employer was at fault.
Maintenance covers your basic cost of living: rent or mortgage, utilities, groceries, and related household expenses. Cure covers your medical care: doctor’s appointments, treatment, and transportation to and from care.
But if you can show that your employer’s negligence played a role in your injury, even a small one, you may be able to recover far more.
Can I Sue My Employer Under the Jones Act?
Yes. If your employer’s negligence contributed to your offshore injury, you have the right to bring a lawsuit under the Jones Act.
Unlike other areas of injury law, the Jones Act follows the doctrine of comparative negligence. This means your employer can be held liable even if they were only partially at fault. If they were just 5% responsible for the accident, they’re responsible for 5% of your total damages. That percentage could mean the difference between financial ruin and staying afloat.
Examples of Employer Negligence Offshore
Employers have a duty to maintain a safe working environment for offshore workers. When they fail in that duty, even small oversights can lead to catastrophic injuries. Common examples of employer negligence under the Jones Act include:
- Forcing workers to operate in dangerous weather
- Failing to train crew members properly
- Not providing safe or working equipment
- Ignoring unsafe conditions aboard the vessel
These are not just bad management decisions—they are violations of your rights. Common maritime injuries include serious burns, traumatic brain injuries, and even wrongful death. Many could be prevented if vessel owners did their jobs.
What Damages Can I Recover?
If you can prove that employer negligence caused your offshore injury, you may be entitled to significant financial recovery beyond maintenance and cure. This could include:
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement or permanent impairment
- Vocational retraining
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future lost wages
When you’re hurt offshore, you’re not just dealing with pain, you’re dealing with the loss of your livelihood, your identity, and your financial future. You deserve to be compensated for all of it.
Contact The Maritime Injury Law Firm Today
If your employer’s negligence left you injured, don’t let them off the hook. With decades of experience standing up for seamen and offshore workers across Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, The Maritime Injury Law Firm is ready to fight for you.
We don’t work for the boat owners—we work for the men and women who power this industry. Call us today for a free, confidential consultation and find out how we can help.
