As an employer, you have certain responsibilities in the event of a workplace injury – no matter what kind of business you’re operating. But providing compensation can be complicated, especially if you work in a maritime industry. Your St. Louis, MO Jones Act lawyer can help you understand the rules. Read on to learn why you should lawyer up, and get in touch with Goldstein & Price, L.C. today to get started.
Why Do I Need A Jones Act Lawyer?
If an employee gets hurt on the job, he or she can file for workers’ comp to offset missing wages and medical expenses. Workers’ compensation is an important safety net; without it, bills would keep stacking up while workers are unable to clock in for work. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to file a claim, and it can take a while for insurance providers to pay you what you’re owed.
Marine employees (seamen, merchant mariners, longshoremen or dockworkers – the list goes on) can also receive financial compensation if they experience a work-related injury. Back in the 1920s, the Jones Act was passed to ensure American vessels were used for maritime commerce on American waterways. However, there was another important inclusion: A provision for financial compensation for injured marine employees.
Under the Jones Act, employers have to provide maintenance and cure payments. Maintenance payments are intended to cover lost wages, and cure payments are intended to cover medical expenses. On the surface, it’s a square deal for employers and employees. Someone gets hurt, they get fair compensation. But making sure that compensation is fair is a tough call.
You’ll have to deal with paperwork, and you’ll also have to shell out money for an employee’s recovery. But there’s always a chance an employee is trying to exploit the Jones Act to receive more than his or her fair compensation. And in other cases, some employees will search for grounds for legal action. They can claim that your vessel was unsafe, or that you skirted around workplace safety laws. This is where your St. Louis Jones Act lawyer can help.
When you contact a Jones Act lawyer, you’re getting a trusted resource who can fight on your behalf so you can focus on running your business. But how do you know you’re dealing with a team you can trust?
Why Experience Matters In Jones Act Cases
There’s a lot riding on an employee’s Jones Act claim. This is money you need to stay afloat, and if you miss any important steps or mismanage the paperwork, that means lengthy delays you just can’t afford. Watercraft injury lawyers aren’t all created equal. Here’s what sets Goldstein & Price, L.C. apart:
- We have over 60 years of experience.
- Over those 60 years, we’ve helped clients with Jones Act claims from across the country.
- And during those 60 years, we’ve expanded beyond Missouri to assist clients across the country
At Goldstein & Price, L.C., we have the experience and legal knowledge to make a difference. Are you ready to get started?
Contact Us Today
Don’t leave yourself open to lawsuits. Contact Goldstein & Price, L.C. today, and see how a St. Louis Jones Act lawyer from our team can make a difference.
Types Of Jones Act Cases We Handle
The Jones Act creates a framework that allows crew members working on vessels to bring injury claims against their employers. Your St. Louis, MO Jones Act lawyer can explain your next steps, but you need to choose a legal team with plenty of experience. Fortunately, At Goldstein & Price, L.C., we’ve spent 60 years defending businesses against Jones Act claims, and we focus on providing clear guidance throughout the process. Read on to see what we can do for you, and contact us today.
Slip And Fall Accidents On Vessels
As your offshore injury lawyer can explain, employees sometimes allege injuries from slipping on wet decks, oil, or other hazards aboard a vessel. These cases typically involve questions about maintenance and safety practices.
Machinery And Equipment Injuries
Vessels rely on heavy equipment such as engines, winches, and cranes. Injuries tied to machinery can lead to claims that safety procedures were not followed or that training was lacking.
Line Handling Incidents
Line handling is a regular part of vessel operations. When workers are injured while securing, releasing, or managing lines, claims often focus on whether supervision and procedures were adequate.
Lifting And Repetitive Strain Claims
Crew members may file claims for injuries tied to lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive physical tasks. These cases may allege that the work environment or assignments contributed to long-term conditions. Your maritime accident lawyer can defend against these claims.
Exposure To Hazardous Substances
Vessel operations sometimes involve fuels, solvents, and other chemicals. Claims may arise when employees allege that exposure caused harm and that protective measures were not in place.
Injuries From Falling Overboard
When a crew member falls into the water, employers may face allegations about training, supervision, or the availability of safety measures. These cases often involve questions about the steps taken before and after the incident.
Docking And Undocking Injuries
Moving vessels in and out of port can be hazardous. Injuries during docking operations often raise questions about how the process was carried out and whether the procedures were reasonable.
Falling Objects And Struck By Incidents
In busy work areas, unsecured equipment, shifting cargo, or swinging doors can lead to injuries. Claims in these cases often center on whether the employer took reasonable steps to limit the risk. Your St. Louis Jones Act lawyer can help you prove you were following these guidelines.
Burns And Electrical Accidents
Vessels use power systems, welding equipment, and fuels that can lead to burns or shock. When an accident occurs, claims may focus on whether safety standards were followed.
Wrongful Death Cases
Unfortunately, some Jones Act claims involve loss of life. These cases carry high stakes for businesses, as families may allege negligence or unseaworthy conditions aboard the vessel.
Contact Goldstein & Price, L.C. Today
Defending Jones Act claims requires a careful approach that takes into account both the law and the realities of vessel operations. At Goldstein & Price, L.C., we are committed to helping businesses protect their interests in these matters. Our admiralty law experience also extends to longshore accidents and maintenance and cure claims. If your company is facing a Jones Act claim, contact us today and see what a St. Louis Jones Act lawyer from our team can do for you.