Alaska Maritime & Jones Act Injury Lawyers
Commercial fishing and work on the water are among the most dangerous jobs in Alaska. Federal maritime law gives injured seamen rights that land-based workers do not have.
Quick answer
A seaman hurt at work may have a Jones Act negligence claim against the employer and an unseaworthiness claim against the vessel owner. The seaman is also owed maintenance and cure, regardless of fault. Most maritime injury claims must be filed within three years (46 U.S.C. § 30106). Report the injury in writing and get medical care.
Who we represent
- Commercial fishermen and deckhands.
- Processors working aboard vessels.
- Tug, barge, and tender crews.
- Charter and tour boat crews.
- Families of seamen lost at sea.
Passengers hurt on charters, ferries, and private boats may also have claims. See our boating accidents page.
What is a Jones Act claim?
The Jones Act lets a seaman injured in the course of employment sue the employer for negligence, with the right to a jury trial (46 U.S.C. § 30104). Negligence can include unsafe work practices, poor training, too few crew members, fatigue from excessive hours, and defective gear.
Whether a worker counts as a "seaman" depends on the job and the worker's connection to a vessel. It is one of the first questions we answer in every case.
What is maintenance and cure?
A seaman who is injured or becomes ill while in the service of a vessel is entitled to maintenance and cure, regardless of fault. The only exception is an injury caused by the seaman's own willful misconduct. Maintenance covers the reasonable cost of food and lodging during recovery. Cure is payment for medical care until the seaman reaches maximum medical improvement.
Employers and insurers sometimes pay too little, pay late, or cut off payments early. When they do, the seaman may have additional claims.
Unseaworthiness
A vessel owner must provide a vessel that is reasonably fit for its intended use. That includes the vessel's parts and equipment and a competent crew. An unseaworthy condition that causes injury can support a claim even without proof of negligence.
How long do you have to file a maritime claim?
Most maritime injury and death claims must be brought within three years (46 U.S.C. § 30106). Some claims, such as claims involving government-owned vessels, can have shorter deadlines. Report the injury to the captain or employer in writing as soon as you can.
What to do after an injury at sea
- Report the injury and ask that it be written in the vessel log.
- Get medical care and keep every record.
- Write down the names of crew members who saw what happened.
- Be careful about signing statements or releases from the employer or its insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What does a consultation cost?
Nothing. The first consultation is free, and talking with us does not obligate you to hire the firm.
How long do I have to bring a maritime injury claim?
Most maritime personal injury and death claims must be filed within three years. Some claims have shorter deadlines. Talk with a lawyer early.
My employer is paying maintenance. Should I still talk to a lawyer?
Yes. Maintenance and cure are separate from a Jones Act or unseaworthiness claim. Accepting maintenance does not mean you have been fully compensated.
Sources
- 46 U.S.C. § 30106 (maritime deadline).
- 46 U.S.C. § 30104 (Jones Act).
This page gives general information, not legal advice for your situation.