Jones Act Coverage 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
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.
• 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.

Let our local experts analyze your current coverage and identify potential gaps or savings for your business.
Comprehensive protection for Texas maritime operations, addressing Gulf Coast risks and federal maritime law requirements.

Jones Act insurance costs vary widely in Texas, typically ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 annually. Your specific premium depends on several factors:
Vessels operating in high-risk areas of the Gulf or navigating challenging Texas inland waterways may face higher premiums.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.