It’s a simple fact that working on the water is dangerous. Whether they are working in shipping or fishing, seamen face long hours, work with heavy equipment, and have to deal with a host of dangers that simply aren’t present or significant on land. They also may not be able to reach aid beyond that of other crew members if an accident does occur.
These workers are aware of the risks and choose to continue their jobs. This benefits everyone, as they are jobs that need to be done. Unfortunately, some corporate employers might be tempted to claim that since risks are inherent to the work and workers go in knowing the risks, they are never responsible for accidents that occur during the work. However, companies need to be held accountable for the safety conditions on their ships. While some risk is unavoidable, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce it, and companies cannot be allowed to simply ignore these processes in order to cut costs.
This is where the Jones Act comes in. Every maritime worker should be aware of this legislation. It maintains that companies need to maintain reasonably safe working conditions, such as keeping their vessel seaworthy and providing appropriate safety gear. If they do not, they will be held legally liable for any injuries that occur while workers are on their vessels. This enables seamen to have some type of legal recourse if they are ever injured. The act also requires some payment even if the company is not directly responsible for the injury.
If you are a Texas maritime worker who has been injured and has not received compensation, you need to contact a Jones Act lawyer in Houston. Kirkendall Dwyer LLP is the best option for such legal recourse.
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