If you or a loved one has been injured while working on a vessel or ship in San Diego, you may be entitled to compensation under the Jones Act. Maritime injury claims can be complicated, but with an experienced Jones Act accident lawyer in San Diego on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
At National Injury Help, our skilled Jones Act accident attorneys in San Diego understand the nuances of maritime law. They are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured seamen and maritime workers. Our team is ready to fight for justice if you suffered an injury on board a commercial fishing boat, cargo ship, or any other vessel operating in San Diego waters.
What Is the Jones Act?
The Jones Act, formally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a federal law that provides protections and rights to seamen injured while working on vessels operating in U.S. waters, including coastal and inland waterways.
Under the Jones Act, injured maritime workers can file a personal injury lawsuit against their employer if negligence caused their injury. Unlike workers’ compensation claims on land, the Jones Act allows for compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills, and other damages.
Who Is Covered Under the Jones Act?
The Jones Act applies primarily to “seamen,” who are employees whose work substantially contributes to the function and mission of a vessel and who spend a significant amount of time on board. This group encompasses various maritime workers, including deckhands, engineers, captains, officers, ship crane operators, offshore oil rig workers, and tugboat crews. If you work on a commercial vessel or an offshore rig and have suffered an injury, you may qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act.
Common Types of Jones Act Accidents in San Diego, CA
San Diego’s bustling maritime industry encompasses commercial shipping, fishing, and recreational boating, each presenting various risks to naval workers. Among the most common types of accidents that Jones Act accident lawyers in San Diego handle are slip and fall incidents on slippery decks, accidents involving cranes or heavy equipment, collisions between vessels, and exposure to toxic substances. Additionally, falls overboard or drowning incidents are unfortunately frequent, as are repetitive motion injuries and chronic conditions resulting from demanding shipboard work. Our San Diego Jones Act accident attorneys have extensive experience investigating these complex cases to establish liability and pursue fair compensation for injured maritime workers.
What Compensation Can You Receive Under the Jones Act?
Unlike traditional workers’ compensation claims, Jones Act claims enable injured seamen to pursue damages against their employers for negligence. Potential compensation can include:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, and emotional distress
- Disability benefits
- Vocational retraining if you cannot return to your previous job
Our Jones Act accident attorneys in San Diego will help you identify all potential damages to build a comprehensive claim for maximum compensation.
Jones Act vs. Maritime Workers’ Compensation
It’s important to distinguish the Jones Act from the general maritime workers’ compensation system. While the Jones Act provides the right to sue employers for negligence, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) typically covers dockworkers and others injured on the waterfront who are not classified as seamen.
Jones Act accident attorneys in San Diego can help you understand which laws apply to your specific case and pursue the best legal strategy for your recovery.
Time Limits to File Jones Act Claims in San Diego, CA
The statute of limitations for filing a Jones Act claim is typically three years from the date of injury. However, maritime law can be nuanced, and some cases may have shorter deadlines depending on specific circumstances.
Contacting a Jones Act accident lawyer in San Diego as soon as possible after your injury is crucial to protect your legal rights and ensure you do not miss important deadlines.
Steps to Take After a Jones Act Injury in San Diego, CA
If you’ve been injured on a vessel or in the course of maritime work, taking the proper steps early can protect your legal rights:
- Report the injury immediately to your employer or supervisor.
- Seek prompt medical treatment for your injuries. Keep thorough records of all treatments and diagnoses.
- Document the accident scene, if possible, including photos and contact information for witnesses.
- Avoid signing any settlement offers or waivers without consulting a lawyer for legal advice.
- Contact a qualified Jones Act accident lawyer in San Diego as soon as possible to evaluate your case.
Why Choose National Injury Help for Your Jones Act Case?
- Maritime Law Experience: We have handled maritime personal injury claims and have a deep understanding of San Diego’s unique waters and industries.
- Personalized Attention: Every client receives legal advice tailored to their needs.
- Aggressive Representation: We fight tirelessly to maximize your compensation and hold negligent parties accountable.
- Local San Diego Attorneys: We are familiar with local courts, insurers, and maritime regulations, providing you with a distinct advantage.
Contact Our San Diego Jones Act Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one suffered a Jones Act injury while working on a vessel or in San Diego waters, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact National Injury Help for a no-obligation consultation with trusted Jones Act accident lawyers in San Diego who will fight for your rightful compensation. Contact us at 800-214-1010 or complete our online form now.