In June 2012, a ship’s captain filed a Jones Act lawsuit against his employer, Associated Marine Services (AMS), and International Divers, claiming he suffered an injury to his left shoulder because of inadequate communication with the ship’s deck hands. On May 22, 2013, the captain filed a notice asking the judge in the case to dismiss International Divers from the case. The judge dismissed the diving company from the lawsuit the next day without prejudice.
The lawsuit alleges AMS was negligent because they did not provide a proper means for the captain to communicate with the deckhands. As a result, the captain suffered the injury while pulling a line to untie the Ronnie Massad, a ship owned by AMS.
The Jones Act is a specific maritime law designed to protect the right of those who are injured while working at sea. This law allows someone who is injured by another’s carelessness to seek compensation for damages and the claims covered by the Jones Act can involve a wide range of workplace accidents. However, the Jones act only applies to seamen who work on a ship. There are other maritime laws that protect other works, such as those on oil rigs or the docks. These laws might include the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
If you or someone you love has been injured on the job, but you aren’t sure if the Jones Act will pertain to you, contact an experienced Louisiana Jones Act attorney. Your lawyer will be able to determine if the Jones Act applies to your situation and advise you on the best course of action in your case. You may be able to collect financial compensation for your injuries, including claims for pain and suffering, medical expenses and other damages.
Source: The Southeast Texas Record, “International Divers non-suited from Jones Act case” David Yates, Jun. 03, 2013
