Maritime Workers Are Protected By Federal Law
Federal law often provides for the rights and benefits of maritime workers who are injured on the job. For example, a federal law known as the Jones Act, in addition to general admiralty and maritime law, covers members of the crew of vessels in navigation such as tows, barges, cruise ships, casino boats, container ships, tugs, dredges and fishing boats in U.S. waters. It provides benefits for covered employees, including the cost of maintenance and cure, and other categories of damages.
Are You Eligible For Compensation?
If the injury was the result of poor crew training or lack of seaworthiness or caused by inadequate maintenance or other negligence, an injured maritime worker may be eligible to file a claim. At our Chicago law firm, Rapoport Weisberg Sims & VanOverloop P.C. our lawyers represent injured seamen and others in injury claims. Because the Jones Act covers only those workers who meet the definition of “seamen,” our attorneys advise people about their eligibility for compensation under this law.
Experience In A Variety Of Maritime Accident Cases
We represent workers injured on barges on Lake Michigan and its tributaries, as well as Chicago River tour boats, ore boats, Great Lakes ferries, riverboat casinos and other vessels on navigable waters. We also represent clients whose loved ones died as a result of the negligence of the owner or operator of a ship or another vessel. Because we carefully select the cases we take, each client can be assured of focused attention to their case and significant personal contact with one or more of our personal injury attorneys.
We Are Ready To Represent You In Trial
Unlike workers’ compensation cases, Jones Act cases are tried before juries; therefore, it is important that attorneys practicing in this area of the law be fully qualified to proceed to trial. One reason we are able to build strong and compelling cases is the firm’s extensive resources, which allow us to consult with experts and specialists to learn how a maritime employer’s negligence contributed to our client’s injuries.
To speak with one of our lawyers, contact us online for a free initial consultation. Call 312-445-9160. Based in Cook County, we serve clients throughout Illinois.