Injured working at sea? You may have a Jones Act claim.
If you’re a seaman who was injured while working on a vessel, you
may be entitled to powerful protections under the Jones Act. This
federal law gives injured maritime workers the right to sue their
employer for negligence and recover damages beyond workers’
compensation.
At Leatherwood Law, we represent deckhands, engineers, captains,
commercial fishermen, and other maritime workers injured aboard
ships, barges, offshore vessels, and rigs. Based in Houston, we
fight for seamen across the Gulf Coast and handle complex claims
involving
offshore platform accidents
and
longshore and harbor injuries .
Jones Act claims require proving that your employer’s
negligence—even if slight—contributed to your injury. These cases
demand deep knowledge of maritime law, vessel operation standards,
and federal legal procedures. We have the experience to help.
Don’t accept a lowball settlement or feel pressured into silence.
You have rights—and we’re here to enforce them.
Maritime Law Focus: We understand seamen’s
rights under the Jones Act and general maritime law.
Houston-Gulf Coast Representation: We’ve
represented injured workers from Port of Houston to offshore
rigs and deep-sea vessels.
Contingency-Based Fees: You pay nothing unless
we win your case.
Aggressive Investigation: We gather ship logs,
maintenance records, witness statements, and more to prove
employer negligence.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured Working at Sea
Report the injury immediately – Notify your
supervisor or vessel captain and request a written report.
Get medical care – Ask for medical evacuation
if needed. Don’t delay treatment.
Document the conditions – Take photos of the
worksite and gather contact info of any witnesses.
Contact Leatherwood Law – Before you sign any
statements or accept employer assistance.
Jones Act FAQs
What is the Jones Act?
The Jones Act is a federal law that lets injured seamen sue their employer for negligence. It can allow recovery beyond wage benefits, including pain and suffering.
Am I considered a seaman under the Jones Act?
You are typically a seaman if you spend a substantial part of your work on a vessel (or fleet) in navigation and your work supports the vessel’s mission. Job title alone does not control status.
How long do I have to file a Jones Act claim?
Most Jones Act and maritime tort claims must be filed within three years. Waiting also increases the risk that critical evidence and witness testimony disappear.
What compensation is available under the Jones Act?
A Jones Act claim can include medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering tied to employer negligence. Seamen may also have rights to maintenance and cure during recovery.
What is unseaworthiness and how is it different from Jones Act negligence?
Unseaworthiness is a claim that a vessel, crew, or equipment was not reasonably fit for its intended use. It is separate from negligence and can be pursued alongside Jones Act rights depending on the facts.
What should I do after a maritime injury while working at sea?
Report the injury and get medical care immediately. Then document conditions and witnesses and avoid signing statements until you understand your legal classification and benefits.
Talk to a Houston Jones Act Lawyer Today
If you were injured while working on a vessel, don’t let your
employer downplay your injuries or deny your rights. Contact
Leatherwood Law today for a free consultation. We’ll explain your
options under the Jones Act and help you get the compensation you
deserve.
