Myths and Misconceptions About the Jones Act

When injury strikes at sea, the legal choices you make are incredibly important. Enter the Jones Act, a lifeline for maritime workers navigating the murky waters of maritime justice. But like a beacon shrouded in fog, the Jones Act is often misunderstood, leaving injured workers adrift in a sea of myths. The legal team at VB Attorneys is here to cut through the confusion and shed light on the truth about the Jones Act's role in maritime injury cases.

Myth #1: The Jones Act only protects traditional seamen

It's a common misconception that the Jones Act exclusively protects sailors on traditional vessels. In reality, the Act's protection extends far beyond conventional ships. Maritime workers on offshore platforms, oil rigs, and other structures also fall under its umbrella. Understanding this broader coverage is vital for those working at sea.

Myth #2: You will be blackballed by your company if you file a lawsuit against them

Fear of being blackballed is valid, however, it's illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for filing a Jones Act claim. Blacklists in the maritime industry are more myth than fact. They are mainly empty threats used by employers who don’t want to be on the hook for a cash payout. While concerns about blackballing shouldn't prevent you from consulting an attorney, it's crucial to ONLY file true claims, as false or exaggerated cases might be cause for them to legitimately blackball you. Remember, your employer can't legally terminate you for filing a Jones Act claim, and this protection extends to potential future employers.

Myth #3: Facing maritime giants means an uphill battle.

It’s true that maritime employers like Maersk, Skanska, and Transocean often wield significant resources. However, VB Attorneys has gone toe to toe with these megacorporations many times before. With our extensive experience, we level the playing field. We negotiate with insurance companies, dissect complex legalities, and fight for the compensation you deserve, regardless of the opponent's size or power.

Myth #4: Compensation is limited to medical bills and lost wages.

The Jones Act's scope extends far beyond covering immediate expenses. You may be entitled to compensation for a wider range of losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost earning potential, and even punitive damages in cases of intentional employer misconduct. Don't underestimate the potential value of your claim; consulting with our team can reveal the full spectrum of recoverable losses you may be entitled to. 

Our Maritime Injury Lawyers Are Here to Help

The Jones Act and federal maritime laws are extremely complex. Across the nation, only a few firms and lawyers handle these challenging cases and have a record of success in helping injured mariners receive the damages they deserve.

VB Attorneys is one of the nation's leading law firms handling maritime injury cases and has successfully handled multiple lawsuits against some of the largest maritime and offshore companies. Get in touch with us today and learn how we can help.