A single injury at sea or on the docks can change your life forever. We’ve seen firsthand the catastrophic consequences of maritime accidents. If a maritime or offshore accident has caused you or a loved one injuries, you can rely on the experience and resources of our maritime injury attorneys.
Jones Act and Other Applicable Maritime Laws
Maritime jobs are some of the most dangerous in the U.S. and expose workers to countless risks and hazards while at sea. Early on, U.S. Congress passed the “Jones Act”, also known as the Merchant Seaman Protection and Relief Act, in 1920, so that injured maritime workers not covered by state workers compensation insurance could receive adequate compensation for medical expenses and lost earnings. The Jones Act grants protection and legal rights to maritime employees. Accordingly, workers or their surviving immediate family members can file a lawsuit against the employer when the ship’s owner or other crew are responsible for their injury or death.
Additionally, there are other laws that may apply to your oil rig injury claim including: Death on the High Seas Act, Long-shore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and General Maritime Law. The numerous federal laws and the economic strength of large corporations operating in maritime areas make offshore injury lawsuits complicated and competitive. It is imperative to involve a qualified and aggressive maritime lawyer to assist you throughout your case
Statistics About Maritime Accidents
According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics,
- There were 5,427 commercial boating accidents reported in 2010.
- Of these accidents, 159 injuries and 41 deaths were reported.
- Research shows that the majority of maritime accidents and injuries can be prevented.
Injured Maritime Workers We Serve
We have helped individuals in the following maritime jobs:
- Sailor
- Barge Worker
- Commercial Fishermen
- Warehouse Employee
- Oil Tanker Worker
- Freighter Worker
- Offshore Oil Worker
- Merchant Navy
- Offshore Platform Employee
- Port Workers
The Importance of Early Investigation
Under Texas law, the Statute of Limitations to file a claim is generally two years from the date of the incident. It’s important you pursue your case as soon as possible to help you recall and document key details that could prove crucial in receiving your compensation. Ultimately, it becomes more difficult to prove negligence and other liability arguments the longer you wait to take legal action.
Possibility of Compensation for All Damages
Depending on your unique situation, your compensation may cover 100% of the following:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Loss of income and earnings potential
- Permanent physical and mental damages
- Pain and Suffering
- Other related damages
Types of Maritime Claims We Can Help With
Our successful offshore injury lawyers are experienced with helping victims of maritime injuries settle their claims, including
- Maritime injuries
- Fatal accidents
- Jones Law claims
- Unsupported ship claims
Types of Offshore Accidents
You may be entitled to compensation if you suffered injuries in any of the following offshore accidents:
- Oil rig explosions
- Crane accidents
- Cruise ship accidents
- Drug-related accidents
- Crane accidents
- Marine cargo handling
- Shipyard accidents
- Oil platform and oil rig accidents
Common Offshore Accident Injuries
In addition, we’ve helped our clients recover benefits from the following types of injuries:
- Pier injuries
- Spine, neck, back, and brain injuries
- Burn-related injuries
- Work Ship injuries
- Offshore oil field injuries
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Disfigurement or amputation
- Paralysis
What to Do if You are in an Offshore Accident
If you are involved in an offshore accident, you should seek immediate medical attention to ensure your injuries are properly cared for. In addition, make sure you report your injury to your superiors. Further, do not admit fault if an insurance company approaches you about your injury. Your statements to insurance companies are recorded and can be used against you. Therefore, you are encouraged to seek attorney representation to ensure you receive the appropriate benefits you are owed.
How a Maritime Lawyer Can Help
It is in your best interest to consult with an attorney who can help you navigate the legal battlefield and explain your options. You can expect your employer will already be building a defense against the incident because it has systems in place to handle these types of incidents. With this in mind, let a skilled attorney help you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to and protect your rights.
Maritime Law FAQs
Will I get blacklisted for filing a lawsuit?
Filing a lawsuit will not put you on a blacklist. In fact, the “blacklist” doesn’t exist—it’s a myth. It’s also unethical for a company to refuse to hire you because you filed a claim.
What are my rights if I am injured offshore?
First and foremost, you have the right to receive medical benefits if you are injured offshore. You also have the right to speak to an attorney. Additionally, you also have the right not to speak to anyone. Your company may start trying to gather information about your injury, but keep in mind they may not always gather information that will put you in a good light. In short, be careful what you say if you choose to say anything.
How much does a maritime injury lawyer cost?
We do not charge any upfront legal fees. Our number one priority is helping you get the benefits and compensation you deserve. We don’t want financial obligations to stand in your way. We pay for all expenses up front, including in some circumstances crucial medical expenses your employer or the insurance company will not cover. If you win your case, you pay a portion of the compensation you receive. If you don’t win, you pay nothing – no legal fees, and no case expenses.
Can I get in trouble for speaking with an attorney?
We pride ourselves on 100% confidentiality. No one will know you’ve consulted with us unless you tell them. It is your right to speak with a legal representative, and you cannot get in trouble for exercising your right.
Gulf Coast Maritime Accidents: Free Case Assessments
If you or a loved one has sustained an oil rig accident injury, you don’t have to suffer alone. Schedule a FREE consultation with one of our offshore accident lawyers to ensure insurance companies and your employer are treating you fairly. While nothing may fully heal the extent of your injuries or the loss of a loved one, having an experienced Jones Act lawyer on your side to help you navigate this complicated area and obtain maximum compensation, is the smart thing to do.