What Is Considered A Vessel Under The Jones Act?

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Jones Act Seaman

Jones Act seamen can recover compensation from their employers when they are injured on the job due to employer negligence. One of the many requirements of being considered a Jones Act seaman is that you are more or less permanently connected to a vessel or fleet of vessels. Even as a longshoreman, you can recover the full array of damages, similar to a Jones Act seaman, against a vessel, if some negligence attributable to that vessel caused your injury. This then begs the question: What is considered a vessel under the Jones Act?

Most people think of a vessel as a boat or ship, but the analysis that goes into determining whether something is considered a vessel can be much more complex. If you were injured while working on the water and are unsure of whether you were working aboard a vessel, the New Orleans maritime lawyers at Lambert Zainey can help.

Key Requirements For Jones Act Vessels

The Jones Act, a fundamental piece of U.S. maritime legislation, sets specific requirements for vessels to operate in domestic waterways. Understanding these criteria is crucial for maritime companies, seamen, and the broader shipping industry. The key criteria include:

U.S. Construction

All Jones Act vessels must be constructed in the United States. This requirement ensures support for the domestic shipbuilding industry and maintains a fleet capable of serving national needs.

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U.S. Ownership and Registration

Vessels must be over 75% owned by U.S.-based companies or citizens. Additionally, they need to be registered in the United States, affirming their compliance with U.S. laws and standards.

General Vessel Crew
Crewing Requirements

It’s essential for these vessels to be crewed by U.S. citizens or permanent residents. This criterion not only supports American jobs but also ensures adherence to U.S. labor and safety standards.

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Vessel in Navigation

It’s essential for these vessels to be crewed by U.S. citizens or permanent residents. This criterion not only supports American jobs but also ensures adherence to U.S. labor and safety standards.

Understanding these criteria is essential for anyone involved in the U.S. maritime industry. Compliance with the Jones Act ensures not only legal adherence but also contributes to the strength and security of the domestic maritime sector.


Companies We’ve Fought Against

Lambert Zainey has obtained recoveries from a long list of maritime companies, including some of the biggest names in the industry.

Check To See If You Are Working On Or With A Vessel Under The Jones Act

Almost Always a “Vessel” under the Jones Act

  • Cargo ships
  • Drilling ships
  • Pleasure boats
  • Container ships
  • Offshore service boats
  • Charter boats
  • Tanker ships
  • Crew boats
  • Construction barges
  • Tug boats
  • Cruise ships
  • Crane barges
  • Dredgers
  • Yachts
  • Material barge
  • Commercial fishing boats
  • Supply boats
  • Tanker barge
  • Car and passenger ferries
  • Quarter boat
  • Cargo barge

Usually a “Vessel,” But Doesn’t Look Like a “Boat”

  • Jack-up rigs
  • Semi-submersible rigs
  • Inland drilling barges “IDB”
  • Casino ships or barges
  • Lay barges

Sometimes NOT Considered a “Vessel,” Even Though It Floats

  • House boats
  • Tension Leg Platforms “TLP”
  • Floating Production, Storage and Offloading unit “FPSO”

Get Help With a Jones Act Maritime Claim

Whether you qualify as a seaman or not, if you’ve been injured on the water, the lawyers at Lambert Zainey can help. Our attorneys have decades of experience helping maritime workers to obtain the maximum compensation possible after injuries on Jones Act vessels. We have the skills, resources, and dedication needed to provide a thorough investigation of your incident and to obtain the results you deserve. Call 800-521-1750 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

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