Barge workers, like railroad workers, are not covered by worker compensation laws if they get hurt on the job. The Jones Act, named after Senator Wesley L. Jones of Washington who introduced the legislation, sets forth the framework to protect injured barge workers. Essentially, the Jones Act has adopted the procedures set forth in the Federal Employers' Liability Act (F.E.L.A.), which protects railroad workers. That means in order for an injured barge worker to receive compensation, he must show that his on-the-job injury was caused by the boat company's negligence.

At Law Offices of Bosslet & O'Leary, we have been representing injured barge workers for over 30 years.

If you or a loved one has been injured while working for a barge company, please call our office at 1-800-634-6648 for an explanation of your legal rights and remember the following do's and don'ts:

Immediately report your accident to the company.

Complete a personal injury report and keep a copy for yourself.

Do not give any statements other than the information in your personal injury report.

Consult with your own doctor as soon as possible. Be sure to give an accurate history of how the accident occurred.

Apply for all benefits to which you are entitled.

Keep a list of all witnesses to your accident.

Keep copies of all medical reports and bills.

Consult with us as soon as possible for additional information regarding your claim.

Terrence V. O' Leary
Robert W. Bosslet, Jr.