Jones Act Lawyer

Jones Act: Eye Injuries

The sea is unpredictable. Sea workers face a variety of challenges while working at sea that are unlike anything that land workers will ever face. As a sea worker, it is your employer’s responsibility to ensure your safety by providing proper training, a safe working environment, and well-maintained equipment.

The Jones Act was created specifically to hold these employers to the standards of safety outlined in the Act. Common injuries include injuries to the back, neck, shoulders, and knees. Eye injuries, while not as common, are potentially even more damaging and may result in blindness if the circumstances are severe enough.

Eye injuries may occur aboard a ship in two ways: physical injury or chemical injury. Physical injuries can happen if a foreign object enters the eye, such as metal or glass fragments. Chemical injuries may occur if the sea worker is required to work near chemical cargo that is not securely contained. If the chemical fumes or the chemical itself enters the eye, serious damage may be done.

If work is being completed that could cause a chemical or foreign object to enter the eye area, safety goggles should be worn. It is an employer’s responsibility to provide this type of safety gear to their employees to prevent serious eye injuries.

Do not hesitate to seek out medical care if you have experienced an eye injury on the job. If you are experiencing symptoms of pain, bleeding, or any kind of visual disturbance, visit a doctor immediately. The medical bills and lost wages that can result from an eye injury can be overwhelming and are not something that you should have to struggle with if the injury was the fault of your employer.

Speak with a Jones Act Lawyer Today

To schedule your initial consultation with a Jones Act lawyer, contact the Jones Act lawyers of Williams Kherkher today by calling 800-220-9341. Speaking with an attorney is the first step in protecting your rights.