What does "unseaworthiness" mean??

A: A vessel owner owes a Jones Act seamen an absolute duty to provide a seaworthy ship. That means the vessel must have appropriate safety gear and equipment, safe facilities, a competent crew, and adequate hull, appliances, gear, equipment, and instructions.

If, for example, a piece of equipment breaks or is inoperable and it causes injury, a seamen may be able to bring an unseaworthiness claim. If the crew is too small, or untrained, or inadequately trained, you may be able to bring an unseaworthiness claim if injury results.

If there is a condition like oil, grease, or other substance exists and it's not supposed to exist and causes injury, a seamen may be able to bring an unseaworthiness claim.

An unseaworthy condition focuses on the condition of the vessel and the "warranty" of seaworthiness applies to the entire vessel, its equipment, its crew, and its appurtenances.

Unlike other areas of the law, the unseaworthiness doctrine is a separate and independent cause of action. That means Jones Act seaman can bring unseaworthiness claims and Jones Act negligence claims, along with a claim for maintenance and cure.