Are diving accidents covered under the Jones Act?

A: Who may be covered: a) commercial divers who are crew members of a vessel used for navigation; and b) whose job responsibilities contribute to the navigation of the vessel. These criteria are not always clearly defined and companies will try to blur the lines and claim the diver is not eligible under the Jones Act.

Who is not covered: An independent or freelance diver who bounces around with different companies may have a difficult time meeting Jones Act requirements. Divers who dive from shore-based structures such as bridges and piers are not eligible.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a diving accident and you don’t know if the Jones Act applies, contact the attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom PLCC.