What is the primary purpose of the Jones Act in relation to maritime workers?

The primary purpose of the Jones Act is to ensure that maritime workers receive compensation for injuries they sustain while performing their duties. Enacted in 1920, the Jones Act allows seamen to file lawsuits against their employers for damages resulting from negligence. This act is significant in providing protection to maritime workers, as it enables them to seek financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs resulting from work-related injuries. The focus on compensation is vital because maritime work often involves unique hazards that can lead to severe injuries, and the Jones Act serves as a critical legal framework that upholds the rights of these workers in the event of an incident.

While health insurance, shipping rate regulations, and vessel safety standards are important aspects of maritime operations and worker protections, they do not specifically align with the primary aims of the Jones Act, which centers on the issue of workplace injury compensation.