Questions about Offshore Accidents? No Problem for Offshore Injury Attorneys in Houston
Working offshore or on a vessel can be exciting and rewarding. Unfortunately, it can also be extremely dangerous. Statistics from Health and Safety Executives (HSE) indicate that more than 40 offshore workers suffered a major injury between 2010 and 2011 alone. Even though laws, such as the Jones Act, have helped to shine a light on the dangers of offshore employment, offshore injury attorneys in Houston are well aware that many people have unanswered questions about offshore injuries and their rights.
There are numerous causes for offshore injuries, including an often-dangerous combination of weather conditions, moving parts, and precarious work environments. Among the most common injuries are bone fractures, falls, and injuries to the arms or legs. Maritime law, including the Jones Act, provides specific protections for individuals working offshore who become ill or are injured on-the-job.
What Does the Jones Act Cover?
The Jones Act provides clear guidelines for offshore employers and employees concerning their rights and responsibilities. Employers are required to follow federal safety guidelines and a variety of specific guidelines geared toward the safe operation of a seagoing vessel. According to the Jones Act, offshore employees are protected from injuries and illness sustained while coming and going from the vessel, from negligence on the part of the employer, assault by fellow crewmembers, and from unsafe working or living conditions onboard.
Who Can File a Lawsuit under the Jones Act?
Under the Jones Act and maritime laws, offshore employees have the right to file a lawsuit if the employee becomes ill or injured on-the-job and believes negligence was a contributing factor. Similarly, if an offshore employee sustains a fatal on-the-job injury, his or her surviving family members may be able to seek damages for the injuries and losses sustained.
What Damages Can I Seek?
Under the Jones Act, individuals are able to seek damages for medical or funeral expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of household services, mental anguish, and possibly punitive damages. The applicability of the Jones Act and other maritime laws may be as unique as your individual case.
Due to the complexities of maritime law, including the strict statutes of limitations, do not hesitate to have your questions answered. Click here to Contact our offshore injury attorneys in Houston to learn more about your rights. Follow this link to learn more about offshore injury lawyers.
Sources:
http://www.hg.org/article.asp?id=23965
http://www.maritimelawcenter.com/html/the_jones_act.html