Jones Act Lawyers

Injured at Sea

If you have been injured at sea, one of your immediate steps should be to consult with an attorney. We understand that this is a difficult time for you and your family. No matter how small your injury is, if the injury was the result of your employer's carelessness, you do have an option to take legal action. There is legislation such as the Jones Act that protects your rights as a worker injured at sea. The Jones Act details who would be liable depending on the accident. It takes into account that liability could fall on the vessel or ship owner.

Taking Legal Action

If you have never been part of a lawsuit, you may not know where to start. We at Williams Kherkher want to assist you on this process. We have compiled a list of actions we suggest you complete. Understand that completing each action will not guarantee any specific outcome, but we feel strongly that it will help you as you consider taking legal action.

• Be sure you have gotten the medical assistance that you need. Consult with doctors that you choose on your own, and not those that your employer has referred you to. It is in your best interest to seek medical care from a doctor that is objective.
• Take notes on details surrounding your injury.
• Keep copies of any communication you have had with your employer regarding the incident, including the accident report.
• Talk with anyone present during the injury. Let them know that you may be contacting them in the future.
• Choose a law firm that has Jones Act lawyers. Meet with the lawyer before making a final selection.

Jones Act Lawyers

Jones Act lawyers are attorneys that have a good grasp on maritime laws and how they apply to a worker that has been injured. They should have the knowledge of how to speak directly to an employer or insurance company, but also know what to do if that does not produce a result.

Jones Act lawyers will also understand how compensation will work depending on your situation. It is important to know what medical benefits you can get, what daily allowance is available and what other compensation packages you have a legal right to claim.

Jones Act lawyers also understand the steps needed to file a claim. They can assess your claim and advise you on how the statute of limitations applies to it. Depending on where the incident took place, you could have one to three years to file your injury claim.

Do no wait. Contact Williams Kherkher today for a free consultation.