The maritime industry is the backbone of Houston’s thriving port and offshore energy sector. However, for those who work on ships, oil rigs, or in harbor-related jobs, the risks are substantial. Injuries sustained in these environments can be life-altering, leading to not only physical pain but also financial strain and uncertainty about the future. That’s where a skilled Houston maritime attorney becomes a lifeline—someone who can navigate the complexities of maritime law and fight for the compensation you deserve.

I recall a case of a deckhand named Mark (name changed), who sustained severe injuries while working on a tugboat in the Gulf of Mexico. What should have been a routine job turned into a nightmare when the vessel was hit by a rogue wave, causing him to slip and fracture his spine. Mark’s life was turned upside down, and like many maritime workers, he wasn’t aware of the full extent of his rights under maritime law. With the help of an experienced Houston maritime attorney, he was able to file a claim under the Jones Act and received the compensation he needed to support his recovery.

Maritime workers face unique risks due to the nature of their jobs. The most common maritime cases involve:

• Slip and Falls: Wet or uneven surfaces on ships, docks, or rigs often lead to serious injuries.
• Machinery Accidents: Defective equipment or improper maintenance can cause life-threatening injuries.
• Explosions and Fires: Oil rigs and ships often deal with combustible materials, making accidents a constant threat.
• Falling Overboard: Workers sometimes face treacherous conditions, and falling overboard can result in drowning or severe injury.
• Heavy Lifting Injuries: Maritime work often involves carrying heavy loads, leading to back, shoulder, or neck injuries.

In Houston’s bustling maritime environment, these incidents are unfortunately not rare, making it critical for injured workers to know their rights and legal options.

The range of injuries suffered by maritime workers in Houston varies greatly depending on the type of job and location. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): A blow to the head from a fall or object can cause long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These are common in high-impact accidents like falls or equipment malfunctions, and they often lead to permanent disabilities.
• Burns: Workers on oil rigs or ships handling hazardous materials are at risk of severe burns from explosions or fires.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Falling on slick decks or getting caught in machinery often results in broken limbs.
• Lung and Respiratory Issues: Exposure to toxic chemicals and gases can lead to chronic lung conditions.

These injuries can not only affect your ability to work but may also require long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation. That’s why securing compensation is so important.

If you’re injured while working offshore or in a maritime setting, you may be entitled to compensation under a variety of maritime laws, depending on the circumstances of your case. Compensation typically covers:

• Medical Expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatment.
• Lost Wages: If your injury leaves you unable to work, you can seek compensation for current and future lost wages.
• Pain and Suffering: In cases of severe physical pain or emotional distress, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Many maritime injuries require long-term rehabilitation, and compensation should cover these expenses.
• Disability Benefits: In cases where your injury leads to permanent disability, you may be eligible for disability compensation.

Working with a knowledgeable Houston maritime attorney ensures that all potential avenues for compensation are explored, giving you the best chance of receiving the financial support you need.

In tragic cases where a maritime worker dies due to an accident occurring more than three nautical miles from shore, the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) allows the surviving family members to seek compensation. This law is crucial for Houston families who lose loved ones in offshore accidents. Compensation under DOHSA can cover funeral expenses, loss of future earnings, and loss of companionship.

The Jones Act is one of the most well-known pieces of legislation that protects injured seamen. Under this law, workers who spend a significant amount of their time on a vessel can file a lawsuit against their employer for negligence if unsafe working conditions led to their injury. This act empowers maritime workers in Houston by holding employers accountable and allowing injured workers to seek full compensation, not just workers’ compensation.

For maritime workers who do not qualify as “seamen” under the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides a path for obtaining compensation. This law covers dockworkers, shipbuilders, and other maritime employees who work near the water but aren’t technically part of a vessel’s crew. The LHWCA provides compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages for those injured on the job.

Handling a maritime injury claim is not like filing a standard workers’ compensation case. Maritime law is complex, involving both federal and state statutes, and employers often have well-funded legal teams working to minimize their liability. A seasoned Houston maritime attorney has the expertise to navigate these legal waters, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Filing a maritime injury claim in Houston requires taking several key steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being are the top priority. Make sure to document your injuries and keep all medical records.
2. Report the Injury: Notify your employer as soon as possible. Be sure to get a written report of the incident.
3. Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as you can, including photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and documentation of unsafe working conditions.
4. Contact a Houston Maritime Attorney: The sooner you speak to an attorney, the better. They will guide you through the process, helping to avoid costly mistakes and ensuring your claim is filed properly.

With the right legal support, you can focus on healing while your attorney handles the legal complexities, from gathering evidence to negotiating settlements or taking your case to trial.