3 Reasons to Hire a Houston Jones Act Attorney
If you’re a seaman injured at work, you may be entitled to claim compensation under the Jones Act. Do you need a Jones Act attorney to negotiate the claim for you, though? Here are three reasons why hiring an experienced maritime attorney is often the best idea.
What Is the Jones Act?
The Jones Act is a federal law designed to protect seamen injured at work due to their employer or another employee’s negligence. The law exists because, unlike most land-based workers, seamen can’t file Workers’ Compensation claims if they’re injured on the job.
If you can successfully prove a claim under the Jones Act, you can claim damages to cover, for example, lost income, medical bills, and ongoing care.
Who is a “seaman”, though? Typically, this is someone who spends a significant amount of their working hours on a ship, boat, or oil rig. There’s no need for the vessel to be moving: it just needs to be afloat on navigable waters, capable of moving, and in operation.
Who Does the Jones Act Protect?
You’re covered by the Jones Act if you:
- are a seaman as defined by the Jones Act;
- sustained an injury or developed an illness during your employment; and
- got this injury due to your employer or another seaman’s negligence.
You might not be covered by the Act if you’re a contractor or a part-time seaman – it depends on how much time you spend on a vessel. An experienced maritime attorney can determine if the Act covers your claim.
3 Reasons to Hire a Houston Jones Act Attorney
The Jones Act maritime law is complex, so here are three specific reasons why you need an experienced attorney on your side if you’re dealing with a maritime accident.
1. They Can Accurately Value Your Claim
Valuing injury claims, especially maritime accident claims, can be complex. An experienced Jones Act attorney in Houston can evaluate your case and estimate, with a high degree of accuracy, how much your claim is worth so you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
2. They Have Knowledge and Experience
The Jones Act claims process is not always straightforward. Your attorney can ensure the correct procedures are followed and that you explore every avenue for pursuing compensation under maritime law.
3. They Know How to Prove Your Case
Every Jones Act claim is unique and presents its own challenges. A Jones Act attorney will identify the best way to prove your claim based on legal precedent and claims won for previous clients. They’ll identify any weaknesses in your claim and determine how to make the strongest possible case.
Hire a Houston Jones Act Attorney | Alexander Law Firm
Have you suffered a maritime accident? Hire a Jones Act maritime attorney in Houston. At the Alexander Law Firm, we have the legal knowledge needed to prove your case and we have successfully helped others make accident claims. To schedule a free case evaluation, contact us today.