When maritime accidents occur in Houston’s bustling ports and offshore oil industries, victims often face complicated legal challenges. A Houston maritime attorney is a specialized legal professional who represents clients in cases involving shipping, offshore drilling, fishing vessels, cargo transport, and other activities governed by maritime and admiralty law. These cases often involve the Jones Act, Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and other federal maritime statutes that protect injured seamen and dockworkers.
Our firm understands the unique nature of maritime law, which differs greatly from standard personal injury law. Whether you are a longshoreman injured on a dock, an offshore oil rig worker hurt in an accident, or a vessel crew member harmed due to negligence, we provide expert representation to secure maximum compensation.
Why Maritime Law is Different
Maritime law, also known as admiralty law, is a distinct body of regulations that governs activities on navigable waters. Unlike typical injury cases handled under state laws, maritime injury claims often require litigation in federal court and involve international treaties, shipping laws, and complex jurisdictional issues.
In Houston, with its large Port of Houston, Gulf of Mexico offshore platforms, and extensive shipping routes, maritime law plays a critical role in protecting the rights of those working at sea. These laws can provide compensation for:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Vocational rehabilitation
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Maintenance and cure benefits
Common Maritime Accident Cases in Houston
A Houston maritime attorney can handle a wide range of cases, including:
Offshore Oil Rig Accidents
Workers on offshore drilling rigs face hazardous conditions daily. Explosions, equipment malfunctions, and unsafe work environments can cause serious injuries. Under the Jones Act, injured seamen may be entitled to substantial compensation if negligence played a role in the accident.
Cargo Ship and Vessel Accidents
From cargo loading accidents to collisions, maritime workers on ships are exposed to heavy machinery and shifting loads, leading to catastrophic injuries.
Longshore and Dockworker Injuries
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides benefits to injured dockworkers, harbor construction crews, and shipyard employees who are not classified as seamen.
Tugboat and Barge Accidents
Tugboat crew members and barge workers often face dangerous working conditions in tight, high-pressure environments, making them vulnerable to crushing injuries, falls, and equipment-related harm.
Commercial Fishing Vessel Accidents
Fishing is one of the most dangerous professions. Injuries from equipment, overboard incidents, and hazardous weather are common.
Legal Rights of Injured Maritime Workers
If you are injured while working at sea or in a port facility, your rights may differ depending on your employment classification:
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Seamen: Protected under the Jones Act, allowing lawsuits for employer negligence.
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Longshore and Harbor Workers: Eligible for LHWCA benefits regardless of fault.
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Cruise Ship Employees: May have claims under contract law and maritime injury statutes.
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Independent Contractors: May still be entitled to maintenance and cure in some circumstances.
Our experienced team ensures you receive full legal protection under the applicable laws.
The Jones Act – Your Path to Justice
The Jones Act is a cornerstone of maritime law that allows injured seamen to sue their employers for negligence. To qualify, you must:
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Spend at least 30% of your work time on a vessel in navigable waters.
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Prove that your employer’s negligence contributed to your injury.
Compensation under the Jones Act can include:
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Past and future medical expenses
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Lost earning capacity
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Pain and suffering damages
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Rehabilitation costs
Investigating Maritime Injury Claims
Our process involves:
Accident Site Investigation – Collecting evidence from the vessel, dock, or offshore platform.
Witness Interviews – Speaking with crew members, safety officers, and bystanders.
Reviewing Safety Records – Examining maintenance logs, safety violations, and training records.
Medical Evaluation – Ensuring a complete diagnosis of injuries and future care needs.
Legal Filing – Initiating claims in state, federal, or admiralty courts.
Why Choose an Experienced Houston Maritime Attorney
Maritime injury cases require specialized knowledge of admiralty law, federal statutes, and offshore industry practices. Our attorneys have:
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Decades of combined maritime law experience
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A proven record of multi-million-dollar settlements
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In-depth understanding of offshore work hazards
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Resources to fight large shipping corporations and insurance companies
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Steps to Take After a Maritime Accident
If you have been injured:
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Report the Incident Immediately to your supervisor or captain.
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Seek Medical Attention and ensure your injuries are documented.
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Preserve Evidence, including photographs, witness contacts, and safety reports.
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Avoid Giving Statements to insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney.
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Contact a Maritime Lawyer to protect your rights.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Depending on your case, you may recover:
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Medical and surgical expenses
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Loss of wages and earning capacity
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Pain, suffering, and mental anguish
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Disability benefits
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Maintenance and cure until maximum recovery
Contact a Houston Maritime Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a maritime or offshore accident, do not delay seeking legal help. The sooner you involve a skilled maritime lawyer, the stronger your case will be. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of maritime workers and ensuring they receive the full compensation they deserve.