The following is a guest blog courtesy of Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC
When you consider all the different types of law that exist, maritime law probably doesn’t pop up in the top tier. However, maritime law protects the rights of many people, from seamen to recreational boaters. There are many categories of maritime law, including The Jones Act and Admiralty Law.
- The Jones Act
- The Jones Act was established as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920. It is designed to protect the rights of sailors working at sea. In other words, seamen injured on the job at sea are entitled to “maintenance and cure” (i.e., medical care as well as financial compensation). The Act also gives seamen and crew the right to sue for damages if their injuries, or death, were a result of negligence of an employer or ship owner or if the vessel was not seaworthy.
- Admiralty Law
- Admiralty law is often referred to as maritime law and covers a host of maritime issues, including shipping, commerce, and transportation. Maritime claims can involve collisions, damaged goods, hazardous spills, as well as injuries. For example, cruise ships fall under maritime law, so if a passenger is injured while on board a cruise ship, that passenger may have cause to file a claim.
- The flag flown by the ship determines which body of law will apply. A U.S. cruise ship flying a U.S. flag would thus fall under U.S. admiralty law.
Maritime law is quite vast and extremely complex. If you or someone you know feel you may have a valid maritime claim, it is highly advisable to seek the legal advice of experienced maritime attorneys.
Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC is a Portland, Oregon-based firm representing individuals and families in Oregon and Washington. Besides Oregon maritime law, the firm specializes in personal injury, birth injury, traumatic brain injury, wrongful death, or other serious or catastrophic injuries.
