8 FAST FACTS ON JONES ACT & MARITIME LAW
1.) WHAT IS THE JONES ACT?
The Jones Act, also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a federal law enacted by Congress that provides protection to persons who are members of the crew of a ship or vessel. The Jones Act governs the liability of vessel operators and marine employers for the work-related injury or death of an employee.
If you were a crewman on a boat or vessel and were injured while at work, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries under the Jones Act. Unlike Workers Compensation, in order for a worker to recover under the Jones Act, a worker must prove negligence or fault on the part of the vessel’s owners, operators, officers, and/or fellow employees or by reason of any defect in the vessel, its gear, tackle, or equipment.
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