Louisiana Maritime and Jones Act Attorney.
Louisiana's waterways, offshore platforms, and inland barges employ thousands. When a seaman is injured, the Jones Act and general maritime law provide remedies that ordinary workers' compensation does not. Stephen Spurgeon handles these cases statewide.
Call now(318) 616-LOSSCases we handle
These are the matters we have built process around: evidence preservation, records workflow, and one attorney from intake through resolution.
Jones Act Negligence
Claims against employers for unsafe conditions, inadequate crew, or negligent orders aboard a vessel in navigation.
Unseaworthiness
Strict-liability claims against vessel owners when the vessel, its equipment, or its crew is not reasonably fit.
Maintenance and Cure
Daily living expenses and medical care owed to an injured seaman regardless of fault, until maximum medical improvement.
Offshore Platform Injuries
Fixed platforms on the Outer Continental Shelf, governed by OCSLA and adjacent state law.
Inland Waterway Injuries
Barges, tugs, push-boats, and dredges on the Mississippi, Red River, and Louisiana's canals.
Longshore (LHWCA)
Injuries to dock workers, shipbuilders, and harbor workers covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act.
How a maritime / jones act case works at Spurgeon Law
- 1. Seaman status. We determine whether you qualify as a Jones Act seaman, which drives every remedy available.
- 2. Preserve evidence. Vessel logs, maintenance records, and witness statements are gathered fast.
- 3. Maintenance and cure. We demand what you are owed immediately, while the larger claim proceeds.
- 4. Negligence and unseaworthiness. The full claim is built on the vessel record and expert marine-safety review.
- 5. Resolution. Settlement or trial in state or federal court, whichever forum serves you best.
Frequently asked questions
Who counts as a Jones Act seaman?
Generally, a worker who contributes to the function of a vessel in navigation and has a connection to that vessel (or fleet) that is substantial in duration and nature. Roughly 30 percent of work time aboard is a common benchmark.
What is maintenance and cure?
Maintenance is a daily stipend for living expenses. Cure is medical care. Both are owed regardless of fault until you reach maximum medical improvement.
How long do I have to file a Jones Act claim?
Three years from the date of injury under 46 U.S.C. § 30106. Do not wait; evidence disappears fast on working vessels.
Can I sue if I was hurt on an offshore platform?
Yes, but the applicable law depends on whether the structure is a vessel, a fixed platform, or something else. We sort that out first.
What clients say
“After my accident, Mr. Spurgeon made the entire process such a breeze. He dealt with the insurance company so I didn't have to. Always answered my questions, available to me after business hours.”
“He was there for me and my kids at all times no matter what through the trial from beginning to end.”
“Outstanding service. Knowledgeable, patient, hardworking, but his responsiveness is the WoW factor. Always a phone call away because he truly cares.”
Client reviews reflect individual experiences. Results may vary. Past results are not a guarantee of future success.