Houston Jones Act Lawyers

Representing Injured Seaman and Offshore Workers in Maritime Accidents in Houston, League City, Clear Lake City, Texas City, Galveston, Pasadena and Throughout Texas and the Gulf Coast Area

The Jones Act establishes an employee's right to sue his employer if he is injured on navigable waters on a vessel and his work contributes to the function or purpose of the mission. An employee of this description is considered to qualify as a seaman under the Act. A vessel can be anything that floats and is capable of navigation. A claim under the Jones Act can be used to recover for pain, suffering, disfigurement, mental anguish, physical impairment, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of earning capacity, and medical expenses.

Established in 1920 as part of the Merchant Marine Act, the Jones Act addresses the rights of workers injured while employed at sea. Through the Jones Act, injured seamen and offshore workers are often able to secure a financial recovery far greater than benefits they may have received under workers' compensation. Because the Jones Act is very specific, it is important to consult a lawyer experienced in handling injury claims that fall under the Act.

At The Krist Law Firm, we take our representation of individuals injured in maritime accidents extremely seriously. In our more than 40 years of legal practice in the Houston area, we have continually worked with hundreds of families impacted by injuries at sea. We recognize the worry associated with a sudden reduction in income combined with an onslaught of medical bills. It is our goal to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case involving an injury at sea.

To arrange a consultation with an attorney experienced with accident cases pertaining to the Jones Act, contact The Krist Law Firm.

The History of the Jones Act

After the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, the world was awakened to the reality of a seaman's job. The public had never before been exposed to the level of risk a vessel worker faced each day and the lack of protection they had under the law. This realization eventually lead to the passing of the Merchant Marine Act, which legally enforced improvements in working conditions and garnered ship owners responsible for employing certain safety measures to protect their workers.

The Jones Act, a part of the Merchant Marine Act, was written to specifically address accountability for injuries sustained while working at sea. Although the Jones Act has gone through many revisions since its inception, its basic premise remains the same — to offer compensation to seamen injured in the line of duty.

What Can a Jones Act Lawyer Do?

The Jones Act is fairly vague when defining matters of seamen and vessel status. In cases involving serious injury, the opposing party may dispute a person's eligibility to receive benefits under the Jones Act, necessitating the need for a strong legal advocate on your side.

Unlike workers' compensation, financial recovery via the Jones Act is not automatic. To obtain benefits under the Jones Act, an injured seaman and his or her attorney must prove employer negligence.

Contact a Lawyer About Your Jones Act Case

At The Krist Law Firm, we have decades of experience representing injured seamen who are eligible for benefits under the Jones Act. Our legal service is provided to you on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not be charged attorneys' fees unless you recover compensation. Contact our firm by calling (281) 954-3186 to schedule a free initial consultation.