Jones Act Funding

Elizabeth DiNardo, Esq.,
Legal Staff Writer

In light of the recent devastation in Puerto Rico caused by hurricanes, the Merchant Marine Act of 1920—commonly known as the Jones Act—and its effect on sea commerce has come into focus in the news. The Jones Act is crucial to understanding how seamen can gain recovery for injuries sustained aboard ship, under the Federal Employers Liability Act. Under the Jones Act, not only are work-related injuries covered, but also injuries sustained while living onboard a vessel or coming or leaving the vessel.

It is important to note while the employee is responsible for proving negligence, the negligence does not have to be the sole proximate cause of the injury. Negligence on the part of the owner/ master of the vessel may include factors such as:

• Failure to maintain safe equipment and appliances
• Care in selecting a competent master and fellow crewmen
• Assaults by fellow crewman with in the scope of work
• Negligent orders
• Failure to avoid heavy weather
• Failure to provide medical treatment
• Failure to rescue
• Failure to supervise

Once negligence has been established, damages under the Jones Act may include:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages
• Loss of support to seaman’s widow or dependents
• Loss of value of household services
• Funeral expenses
• Loss of fringe benefits
• Mental anguish

If your clients involved in Jones Act cases or other litigation need assistance meeting their monthly obligations, Plaintiff Support can provide immediate relief with its funding programs. Plaintiff Support offers a simple, hassle-free application process with approval in as little as 24 hours. As an attorney, it’s important to understand that Plaintiff Support does not interfere with the litigation process. Our advances are made on a non-recourse basis—if your client’s case is unsuccessful, they owe us nothing.

To learn more, contact us today at 800-352-9676 or visit PlaintiffSupport.com.

Plaintiff Support offers a variety of settlement funding services to help plaintiffs and attorneys during and after a personal injury case. Learn more about how we can help you.