Working aboard a cruise ship offers unique career opportunities, but also comes with significant risks and special legal protections. Between 2000 and 2019, hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries occurred aboard cruise ships, with many involving crew members. When maritime workers suffer injuries while performing their duties, they’re covered under federal maritime law rather than traditional workers’ compensation.
The experienced cruise accident attorneys at Mannello Law Group understand Jones Act claims and help injured cruise ship employees secure compensation.
What Is the Jones Act
The Merchant Marine Act of 1920, commonly known as the Jones Act (46 U.S.C. § 30104), provides essential protections for maritime workers injured during employment. This federal law is designed specifically for “seamen,” workers who contribute to vessel operations and maintain a substantial connection to the ship. Crew members pursuing a Jones Act claim generally have up to three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit.
Who Does the Jones Act Cover?
To qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, you generally must spend at least 30% of your working time aboard a vessel in navigation. Cruise ship employees who often qualify include:
- Deck crew members
- Engine room personnel
- Restaurant and galley staff
- Housekeeping workers
- Entertainment staff
- Security personnel
Understanding whether you qualify is important because it determines your right to pursue a Jones Act claim and seek compensation for work-related injuries.
Key Rights Under the Jones Act
The Jones Act gives injured seamen protections beyond traditional workers’ compensation, including the ability to pursue employer negligence claims.
- Right to sue for negligence: Seek damages from ship owners for employer or crew negligence
- Maintenance and cure: Covers medical expenses and lost wages until maximum recovery
- Unearned wages: Compensation continues for wages lost during the injury period
Speaking with a cruise ship accident lawyer can help protect your rights and secure full compensation.
Common Causes of Cruise Ship Injuries
Between 2005 and 2011, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported 100 million passengers and 448 major cruise ship accidents. Common injuries include:
- Slips, trips, and falls on wet or uneven surfaces
- Food poisoning or illness outbreaks
- Fires or hazardous working conditions
- Medical negligence in the ship’s infirmary
- Negligent security or assaults on board
Maritime attorneys at Mannello Law Group frequently handle these types of cruise ship injury cases.
How to Prove a Jones Act Claim for Injured Seamen
To make a successful Jones Act claim, you generally need to:
- Show You’re a Qualified Seaman: Prove your status under the Jones Act.
- Prove Employer Negligence: Show that your employer’s negligence played a part in your injury.
- Keep Medical Records: Document all treatment related to the injury.
- Claim Compensation: You may recover for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other non-economic damages.
- Include Mental Health Effects: Many maritime accident survivors experience emotional or mental health issues, which can support your claim.
Speak with a cruise ship accident lawyer to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve under the Jones Act.
Schedule a Consultation with a Cruise Accident Lawyer Today
If you are injured on a cruise, act immediately. Document the incident, seek medical care, and report it to your supervisor before important deadlines pass. The experienced cruise ship accident attorneys at Mannello Law Group have over 65 years of combined experience handling Jones Act and maritime injury cases. Contact us online or call 954-606-6606 right away to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
