Brevard County Jones Act Attorney

Why Can't an Injured Seaman File a Workers' Compensation Claim?

Unlike the vast majority of workers in Florida, injured seamen and commercial divers are not covered by the state workers' compensation laws. If you have been injured while working offshore, you will have to file a claim for damages under the federal Jones Act, which specifically covers maritime injuries.

Don't trust the outcome of your claim to just any personal injury attorney-bring the case to our firm. Our Brevard County injury lawyers have extensive experience with the Jones Act and have the reputation which comes with recovering more than $100 million for accident victims.

What is the Jones Act?

Congress passed the Jones Act in 1920, with the goal of offsetting the significant health hazards associated with working offshore. The merchant marine forms a vital segment of our nation's economy, but working in this industry places an individual in danger of catastrophic injuries or death.

In order to encourage more people to enter this line of work, the Jones Act makes it possible for an injured seaman to claim comprehensive financial compensation after an accident. Jones Act claims have a significant advantage over workers' comp, in light of the fact that they are not limited to necessary medical expenses and partial wage replacement, which means they can include full damages including:

• All medical care
• Lost income
• Reduced earning power
• Pain and suffering

The downside is that it is not a no-fault system-you will have to be able to demonstrate that your accident was the result of another party's negligence or was due to unseaworthiness.

Get Started On Your Case Today

Whether you were injured in a slip and fall on the ship deck or if you have lost a loved one to a fatal commercial diving accident, an attorney from High Stack Gordon Kirby will work diligently to prove your claim and will fight to recover the compensation you deserve.