About Jones Act

About the Jones Act

The Jones Act pertains to Section 27 of The Merchant Marine Act of 1920. The United States government declared the Act to ensure specific rights for U.S. seamen and to protect U.S. merchant businesses. It specifies that any cargo that is to be transported from U.S. owned ports must be carried on a United States owned ships, staffed by American workers. The purpose of this is to preserve the maritime economy from foreign companies.

The experienced maritime lawyers of The Testa Law Group know the significance of maritime law and legal protection for seamen. If you or a loved one has been injured or had your rights violated upon at sea, contact our offices today for a free consultation with a dedicated maritime lawyer at 877-780-9052 to review your case and discover more about your legal rights.

Significance of the Jones Act

The Jones Act of 1920 had a powerful impact on the freedoms of American sailors and sea workers. It afforded protection that beforehand did not exist in the subsequent ways:

  • Granted a job security to sailors whose jobs could have been endangered by foreign competition
  • Declared that a seaman injured on the job has the power to pursue legal action for damages against their employer
  • Lengthened legislation to sea workers that had previously existed for railroad workers
  • Provided for legal action against superiors and company masters on the grounds of utilizing a vessel deemed to be unseaworthy or negligence
  • If you are unsure if you may be qualified to file a civil lawsuit in the furrow of an accident that left you wounded while serving in the maritime industry, then do not wait to consult with a dedicated maritime lawyer.

Contact the Testa Law Group

We are dedicated to shielding the legal rights of American maritime workers, and if your rights have been infringed, then you may be able to obtain money. Contact the experienced maritime lawyers of the Testa Law Group by calling 877-780-9052 for a free consultation to address your case and learn about your legal rights.