Jones Act Coverage Florida

Your Florida maritime business deserves protection from experts who understand local waterways and regulations.
• Deep understanding of Florida's maritime industry and coastal risks
• Expert knowledge of state and federal maritime laws
• Customized coverage for Florida's diverse marine operations
We go beyond basic Jones Act coverage with premium risk management services. Our enhanced coverage options include quarterly safety assessments and specialized endorsements for Florida's unique maritime operations. This proactive approach helps prevent claims while ensuring complete protection for your crew and vessels.
• Commercial Fishing Operations: Florida's thriving fishing industry requires robust coverage for crew injuries and vessel incidents in the Gulf and Atlantic waters.
• Offshore Oil and Gas Companies: Operations in the Gulf of Mexico need comprehensive protection for platform workers and support vessel crews.
• Shipyards and Marine Construction: Florida's extensive coastline hosts numerous shipyards and marine construction projects requiring Jones Act coverage for workers.
• Cruise Lines and Ferry Services: Florida's bustling cruise industry and inter-island ferry services must protect their crews under the Jones Act.

Let our local experts analyze your current coverage and identify potential gaps or savings for your business.
Comprehensive protection for Florida's maritime workforce, addressing regional risks and regulatory requirements.

Jones Act Coverage in Florida typically costs between $5,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on various factors:
Higher coverage limits, often necessary for large Florida maritime operations, will increase overall insurance costs but provide greater protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to questions you may have. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us here.
Jones Act coverage in Florida is a specialized form of maritime law protection for seamen working on vessels in navigable waters. It provides compensation for injuries sustained during employment. In Florida, with its extensive coastline and bustling ports like Miami and Jacksonville, this coverage is crucial for maritime workers. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from employer negligence or vessel unseaworthiness.
In Florida, Jones Act coverage applies to individuals who spend at least 30% of their work time contributing to the function of a vessel in navigation. This includes crew members, captains, and other maritime workers on various vessels like cruise ships, fishing boats, and cargo ships. Florida's diverse maritime industry, from the Keys to the Panhandle, employs thousands who potentially qualify. The worker must also have a substantial connection to a specific vessel or fleet.
Unlike Florida's workers' compensation, Jones Act coverage allows injured seamen to sue their employers for negligence. It provides more comprehensive benefits, including pain and suffering damages not available under workers' comp. In Florida's maritime sector, from Port Everglades to Port Canaveral, this distinction is crucial. Jones Act claims often result in higher compensation but require proving employer fault, unlike the no-fault system of workers' compensation.
The Jones Act in Florida covers a wide range of injuries occurring on or related to vessel operations. This includes slip and falls, equipment malfunctions, exposure to toxic substances, and injuries from inadequate training or supervision. Given Florida's maritime risks, from tropical storms to busy shipping lanes, coverage extends to injuries from severe weather events and collisions. Long-term occupational diseases like hearing loss or respiratory issues from prolonged exposure are also covered.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a Jones Act claim is generally three years from the date of the injury. However, for cases involving unseaworthiness, the limit may be two years. It's crucial to act promptly, as Florida's courts strictly enforce these deadlines. Given the complexity of maritime law and the state's busy judicial system, especially in maritime hubs like Tampa or Fort Lauderdale, it's advisable to consult with a specialized maritime attorney as soon as possible after an injury.
Florida's extensive maritime industry significantly influences Jones Act coverage. With major ports like PortMiami and Port Tampa Bay, and a thriving cruise industry, there's a high demand for comprehensive coverage. The state's unique geography, including the Intracoastal Waterway and Gulf Coast, presents diverse risks. Florida-specific factors like hurricane seasons and busy international shipping routes are considered in coverage terms and claim assessments. Local maritime attorneys often specialize in navigating these Florida-specific aspects of Jones Act cases.
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For over a decade, TWFG Khan Insurance Services has been the trusted partner for businesses across Texas and neighboring states. We specialize in complex insurance solutions for maritime, oil & gas, and construction industries where standard coverage isn't enough.
Don't let gaps in coverage put your business at risk. Our team of specialists will work with you to create a comprehensive protection plan that keeps your business secure and compliant.
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