Who is Covered?The Jones Act covers not only the members of a crew, but the masters of that crew as well. That is, anyone who has a connection that is both substantial in nature and duration to a specific vessel, or to a fleet of vessels, and whose duties contribute to the function or mission of that vessel or fleet. Generally, anyone who spends more than 30% of their time on a vessel that is in navigation, will qualify as a Jones Act seaman. It is important to understand that the terms duration and nature, when talking about someone's connection to a ship, are traditionally construed by the courts to be exceptionally broad when finding as to whether or not an employee qualifies for Jones Act coverage.
An employee that does not qualify as a Jones Act seaman, but instead works as a contract employee who moves back and forth between multiple vessels, that are not under common ownership, will generally be covered under Longshore or Maritime law, and not under the Jones Act.
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 | Claims can result in large cash awards?
| | | You may be eligible for attorney loans?
| | | You are allowed to choose your own doctor?
| | | Following an injury, your employer cannot be trusted?
| | | That attorneys can help you secure medical tests and treatment?
| | | That the Jones Act is almost no fault?
| | | If you have been injured on the water, then chances are, you are covered by the Jones Act!
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