Jones Act seamen can recover compensation from their employers when they are injured on the job due to employer negligence. One of the many requirements of being considered a Jones Act seaman is that you are more or less permanently connected to a vessel or fleet of vessels. Even as a longshoreman, you can recover the full array of damages, similar to a Jones Act seaman, against a vessel, if some negligence attributable to that vessel caused your injury. This then begs the question: What is considered a vessel under the Jones Act?
Most people think of a vessel as a boat or ship, but the analysis that goes into determining whether something is considered a vessel can be much more complex. If you were injured while working on the water and are unsure of whether you were working aboard a vessel, the New Orleans maritime lawyers at Lambert Zainey can help.
Key Requirements for Jones Act Vessels
The Jones Act, a fundamental piece of U.S. maritime legislation, sets specific requirements for vessels to operate in domestic waterways. Understanding these criteria is crucial for maritime companies, seamen, and the broader shipping industry. The key criteria include:
- U.S. Construction: All Jones Act vessels must be constructed in the United States. This requirement ensures support for the domestic shipbuilding industry and maintains a fleet capable of serving national needs.
- U.S. Ownership and Registration: Vessels must be over 75% owned by U.S.-based companies or citizens. Additionally, they need to be registered in the United States, affirming their compliance with U.S. laws and standards.
- Crewing Requirements: It’s essential for these vessels to be crewed by U.S. citizens or permanent residents. This criterion not only supports American jobs but also ensures adherence to U.S. labor and safety standards.
- Vessel in Navigation: For a maritime worker to qualify as a Jones Act Seaman, the vessel must be actively in navigation. This doesn’t necessarily mean being at sea but rather capable of moving and engaged in maritime activities.
Understanding these criteria is essential for anyone involved in the U.S. maritime industry. Compliance with the Jones Act ensures not only legal adherence but also contributes to the strength and security of the domestic maritime sector.
Check to See If You Are Working on or With a Vessel Under the Jones Act
Almost Always a “Vessel” under the Jones Act:
- Cargo ships
- Container ships
- Tanker ships
- Tug boats
- Dredgers
- Commercial fishing boats
- Car and passenger ferries
- Drilling ships
- Offshore service boats
- Crew boats
- Cruise ships
- Yachts
- Supply boats
- Quarter boat
- Pleasure boats
- Charter boats
- Construction barges
- Crane barges
- Material barge
- Tanker barge
- Cargo barge
Usually a “Vessel,” But Doesn’t Look Like a “Boat”:
- Jack-up rigs
- Semi-submersible rigs
- Inland drilling barges “IDB”
- Casino ships or barges
- Lay barges
Sometimes NOT Considered a “Vessel,” Even Though It Floats:
- House boats
- Floating Production, Storage and Offloading unit “FPSO”
- Tension Leg Platforms “TLP”
Over $1 Billion Recovered For Our Injured Clients
Get Help With a Jones Act Maritime Claim
Whether you qualify as a seaman or not, if you’ve been injured on the water, the lawyers at Lambert Zainey can help. Our attorneys have decades of experience helping maritime workers to obtain the maximum compensation possible after injuries on Jones Act vessels. We have the skills, resources, and dedication needed to provide a thorough investigation of your incident and to obtain the results you deserve. Call 800-521-1750 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.