Safety Tips for Working on a Boat and How the Jones Act Affects You

Working on a boat can be a dangerous occupation. You may experience foul weather, dangerous chemicals, and heavy machinery that may create a hazardous situation if not handled properly. If you are injured while working on a boat or other type of water vessel, you have rights under the Jones Act; however, most boating accidents are preventable if you follow these safety guidelines.

• Before you take a job on a boat, do your research to make sure that the vessel on which you will be working is registered and properly documented.
• When you first come aboard, ask to see where the safety equipment is kept. This should include life jackets, fire extinguishers, visual distress signals (flares etc.), flashlights, and sanitation products.
• Familiarize yourself with the layout of the boat and practice safety drillswith the crew in case of emergency.
• Follow all posted signs and instructions on board.
• Make sure you are properly trained in any task you are asked to do and that you understand how to use any necessary machinery or equipment.

Even when following safety guidelines closely, the negligent acts of a captain or co-worker can put your well-being in jeopardy. If you are injured in an accident because another individual failed to follow proper safety procedures, you may be entitled to collect compensation with the help of a Jones Act attorney.

Contact a Jones Act Attorney Today

Maritime law provides you with certain protections your employer may not want you to know about. A maritime law attorney from The Young Firm inNew Orleans,Louisiana, can help you if you have suffered boating accident injuries, an offshore accident, or other injuries that fall under maritime law or the Jones Act.

Though we are based in Louisiana, we are ready and able to help injured victims throughout the U.S.Order our free Maritime Injury Law guide and/or our guide to what to do when you are injured offshore to learn all about your rights as an injured worker.

When you are ready to get started with your Jones Act injury case, we urge you to contact us today.