The Jones Act- Vessel

Posted by: rzehl
January 31, 2008
Topic: The Jones Act

To be a "vessel", for the purposes of its crew being considered "seamen" and thus being entitled to remedies supplied by the Jones Act, the function and purpose of a floating structure must be as an instrument of commerce or used to transport passengers, cargo or equipment from place to place on navigable waters.

Generally, most ships, barges, dredges, tugs and fishing vessels used to carry personnel and cargo meet the "vessel" test under the Jones Act.

However, there are many floating watercraft that do not routinely transport goods or passengers but may still be considered "vessels" under the Act. These may include floating restaurants, casinos, hotels, and the like. Also, jack-up rigs, semi-submersibles, and other movable offshore oil rigs are usually deemed to be "vessels".

Contact the experienced Houston Jones Act attorneys of the Fitts Zehl Law Firm by email at info@gulfcoastmaritimelawyer.com or toll-free at (800) 993-4887. We represent clients in states throughout the gulf coast region including: Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

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