Jones Act Coverage Texas

Specialized Jones Act coverage tailored for Texas maritime workers, offering robust protection in the Gulf Coast's unique offshore environment.
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Custom-tailored policies for Texas specific risks

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Why Us?

Why Choose TWFG Commercial in Texas?

Your Texas maritime business deserves protection from a partner who understands local offshore risks and regulations.

• Deep understanding of Texas maritime laws and Gulf Coast operations
• Expert knowledge of Jones Act requirements and recent legal interpretations
• Customized coverage for Texas-specific offshore and coastal risks

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Local Expertise
Serving Texas maritime businesses since 2001, our local insurance experts have an intimate understanding of Gulf Coast operations. We've witnessed the evolution of offshore risks in Texas waters and tailor our Jones Act coverage to address the unique challenges faced by local maritime workers and vessel operators.
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Industry Expertise
Our maritime insurance specialists maintain up-to-date certifications in admiralty law and offshore safety regulations. We continuously track emerging risks in the Gulf of Mexico, ensuring your Jones Act policy provides comprehensive protection against industry-specific claims unique to Texas waters.
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Beyond Basic Coverage

We go beyond basic Jones Act coverage with premium risk management services. Our enhanced options include quarterly safety audits, specialized endorsements for Gulf Coast operations, and access to a network of maritime attorneys. This proactive approach helps prevent claims while ensuring complete protection.

Ideal For

Who needs Jones Act Coverage in Texas?

• Offshore Oil and Gas Companies: Drilling rig operators, supply vessel owners, and offshore service providers need comprehensive Jones Act protection for their crews working in the Gulf of Mexico.
• Commercial Fishing Operations: Texas-based fishing fleets require coverage for crew injuries and vessel incidents in coastal and international waters.
• Port and Harbor Services: Tug operators, stevedoring companies, and marine construction firms in major Texas ports like Houston and Corpus Christi need Jones Act insurance for their maritime employees.
• Inland Waterway Operators: Barge companies and towboat operators navigating Texas rivers and the Intracoastal Waterway must protect their crews under the Jones Act.

In Texas's dynamic maritime environment, vessel operators and offshore businesses face unique liability challenges under the Jones Act. Our specialized coverage provides essential protection for maritime workers in the event of injury or illness. For instance, offshore oil and gas operations in the Gulf of Mexico must navigate complex federal and state regulations while managing the risks of deepwater drilling. Similarly, commercial fishing operations must balance seasonal demands with strict safety requirements in often unpredictable Gulf waters. Securing comprehensive Jones Act coverage isn't just a legal requirement—it's crucial for protecting your Texas maritime business and employees against unexpected incidents. Contact our Texas office today for customized maritime insurance solutions.
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Get Personalised Advice from Texas Insurance Experts

Let our local experts analyze your current coverage and identify potential gaps or savings for your business.

Jones Act Coverage Coverage Details

Comprehensive protection for Texas maritime operations, addressing Gulf Coast risks and federal maritime law requirements.

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Comprehensive Jones Act Coverage Explained

Our Texas Jones Act coverage safeguards your maritime business against crew-related claims and vessel incidents. Coverage includes:
• Medical Care: Full coverage for crew injuries and illnesses
• Lost Wages: Compensation for seafarers unable to work due to injury
• Rehabilitation: Support for injured crew members returning to work
• Legal Defense: Coverage for attorney fees and court costs in Jones Act claims
• Maintenance and Cure: Daily living expenses and medical treatment until maximum medical improvement

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Industry-Specific Risks in Texas Waters

Texas maritime operations face unique risks requiring specialized coverage:
• Offshore Oil and Gas Risks: Protection against deepwater drilling hazards and extreme weather events in the Gulf
• Commercial Fishing Dangers: Coverage for vessel collisions, gear accidents, and crew overboard incidents
• Port Operation Hazards: Protection for cargo handling accidents and vessel maneuvering incidents in busy Texas ports
• Inland Waterway Challenges: Coverage for navigational hazards, lock and dam accidents, and bridge allisions on Texas rivers

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Texas Jones Act Requirements

While the Jones Act is federal law, its application in Texas waters has unique considerations:
• Texas state courts often handle Jones Act claims, requiring knowledge of local interpretations
• The Texas Oilfield Anti-Indemnity Act can impact contractual obligations in offshore operations
• Texas Workers' Compensation Act doesn't apply to Jones Act seamen, necessitating separate coverage
• Recent court decisions have expanded the definition of 'vessel in navigation' in Texas waters, potentially increasing liability
Our Texas maritime experts ensure your coverage meets all federal and state requirements.

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Enhanced Coverage Options for Texas Maritime Operators

Enhance your maritime protection with these critical coverage options:
• Punitive Damages Coverage: Protection against claims of willful and wanton conduct
• Maritime Employer's Liability: Coverage for land-based maritime workers not qualifying as seamen
• Contractual Liability: Protection for obligations assumed under maritime contracts
• Pollution Liability: Coverage for environmental incidents in Gulf Coast waters

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Considerations for Local Businesses in Texas

Texas maritime operations must comply with both federal Jones Act requirements and state-specific regulations. The Texas Department of Insurance provides guidelines for maritime employers, while the Port of Houston Authority imposes additional safety requirements for vessel operators. In 2022, Texas ports handled over 600 million tons of cargo, with the Port of Houston alone contributing $339 billion to the state's economy. The offshore oil and gas industry employs over 100,000 Texans, with a significant portion working on vessels subject to the Jones Act. Texas experienced a 15% increase in reported maritime incidents since 2020, with the most common claims involving slips and falls (30%), equipment-related injuries (25%), and exposure to hazardous materials (20%). The Gulf Coast's hurricane risk poses a unique challenge, with the average storm causing $1.5 billion in damages to maritime infrastructure. Climate change has led to a 10% increase in severe weather days in the Gulf, impacting vessel operations and crew safety.
Expertise

How much does Jones Act Coverage cost in Texas?

Jones Act insurance costs vary widely in Texas, typically ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 annually. Your specific premium depends on several factors:

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1
Vessel Type and Operation
Offshore supply vessels and drilling rigs in the Gulf often incur higher premiums due to increased risks compared to inland waterway operators.
2
Crew Size and Payroll
Larger crews and higher payrolls generally lead to increased premiums, reflecting greater potential liability.
3
Claims History
A history of Jones Act claims can significantly impact premiums. Maintaining a strong safety record is crucial for controlling costs.
4
Coverage Limits
Higher coverage limits provide greater protection but increase premium costs. We help optimize limits based on your specific risk profile.
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Operating Area

Vessels operating in high-risk areas of the Gulf or navigating challenging Texas inland waterways may face higher premiums.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to questions you may have. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us here.

What is Jones Act coverage in Texas, and who needs it?
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Jones Act coverage in Texas is a specialized form of maritime insurance for seamen working on vessels. It's essential for Texas-based maritime employers operating in the Gulf Coast, including offshore oil rigs, fishing boats, and cargo ships. This coverage protects employers from liability claims filed by injured seamen and provides compensation for workers injured due to employer negligence or vessel unseaworthiness.

How does Jones Act coverage differ from standard workers' compensation in Texas?
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Unlike standard workers' compensation, Jones Act coverage in Texas allows injured seamen to sue their employers for negligence. It provides more comprehensive benefits, including lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Texas, being a major maritime state with its extensive Gulf Coast, sees frequent Jones Act claims. The Act also imposes a higher duty of care on employers compared to standard workers' compensation laws.

What are the typical coverage limits for Jones Act insurance in Texas?
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Coverage limits for Jones Act insurance in Texas vary based on the size and nature of maritime operations. Smaller fishing operations might carry $1-5 million in coverage, while large offshore drilling companies often have limits exceeding $100 million. Given the high-risk nature of Gulf of Mexico operations and potential for catastrophic injuries, many Texas maritime employers opt for higher limits to adequately protect their assets.

How do Texas courts interpret the Jones Act in maritime injury cases?
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Texas courts, particularly in coastal areas like Houston and Galveston, are experienced in Jones Act cases. They often interpret the Act liberally in favor of seamen, considering the dangerous nature of maritime work in the Gulf. Texas courts typically require only a 'featherweight' burden of proof for causation in Jones Act claims, making it easier for injured seamen to establish employer negligence compared to standard personal injury cases.

What unique risks does Jones Act coverage address for Texas maritime employers?
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Jones Act coverage in Texas addresses risks specific to Gulf Coast maritime operations, including offshore oil and gas activities, commercial fishing, and shipping. It covers injuries from severe weather events like hurricanes, accidents related to oil rig operations, and incidents in busy ports like Houston and Corpus Christi. The coverage is crucial given the high-risk nature of these industries and the potential for severe injuries in remote offshore locations.

How can Texas maritime employers reduce their Jones Act liability exposure?
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Texas maritime employers can reduce Jones Act liability by implementing rigorous safety protocols, providing thorough training, and maintaining vessels to the highest standards. Regular safety audits, documented maintenance procedures, and prompt addressing of any reported hazards are crucial. Many Texas employers also invest in advanced safety equipment and technologies specific to Gulf Coast operations. Additionally, carrying adequate Jones Act insurance coverage is essential to protect against potentially costly claims.

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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.



Join the hundreds of businesses who trust us with their most critical insurance needs.

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