If you have been injured while working on a cargo ship, you need an attorney who understands the ins and outs of maritime law and the dangers of the shipping industry. At Williams Hart & Boundas, our maritime injury attorneys are dedicated to helping injured seamen and maritime workers secure the compensation they deserve. From investigating accidents to negotiating with employers and insurers, a Houston cargo ship accident injury lawyer can fight to protect your rights and ensure a full recovery.
Common Cargo Ship Accident Injuries
Cargo ship accidents can result in a wide range of serious injuries due to the size, weight, and complexity of the vessels. One of the most common injuries is slips, trips, and falls, often caused by wet decks, uneven surfaces, or unsecured cargo, leading to fractures, sprains, or head trauma. Crush injuries can occur when workers are caught between containers, heavy equipment, or moving machinery.
Burns and electrocution are possible from onboard electrical systems, fuel leaks, or fires. Exposure to hazardous materials may cause chemical burns, respiratory issues, or long-term health problems. Crew members may also suffer back and musculoskeletal injuries from lifting or handling heavy cargo. Additionally, accidents such as collisions, capsizing, or falls overboard can lead to life-threatening injuries or drowning. No matter your type of cargo ship accident, our Houston injury attorneys can help.
How the Jones Act Protects You
The law recognizes that seamen have always faced a dangerous job and provides additional protections when they are injured on the job. Unlike other employees who must file a workers’ compensation claim, injured seamen can file a personal injury lawsuit against their employer.
The benefit of this course of action is that you can receive additional compensation, such as full payment for lost wages and non-economic damages. To win your lawsuit, you must prove that your employer was negligent in the circumstances surrounding your injury. If you do not qualify as a “seaman” under the Jones Act under 46 United States Code § 24, or you do not have evidence that proves negligence, you can still file a claim for maintenance and cure benefits that can provide you with a measure of compensation.
After a cargo ship accident injury in Houston, meet with an attorney at our firm to discuss your various legal avenues for compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help
A cargo ship accident injury lawyer can provide critical assistance to Houston workers injured on cargo vessels, navigating the complex world of maritime law to secure fair compensation. These cases often involve laws such as the Jones Act, general maritime law, or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act under 33 United States Code § 901, which can be difficult to interpret without specialized knowledge.
An experienced ship injury attorney will thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence from vessel logs, maintenance records, safety inspections, and witness statements to establish negligence or unsafe working conditions. They can help determine the full extent of damages, including:
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
A lawyer also handles negotiations with shipping companies and insurance providers, who may attempt to minimize payouts or dispute claims.
If necessary, they are prepared to litigate in court to ensure workers receive the compensation they deserve. With skilled guidance, injured cargo ship workers can focus on recovery while their attorney fights for their legal rights and potentially secures compensation on their behalf.
Contact a Cargo Ship Accident Injury Attorney in Houston
If you have been injured while working on a cargo ship, you need a Houston cargo ship accident injury lawyer to help determine which law applies and how to be compensated for what happened. The experienced attorneys at Williams Hart & Boundas have a track record of delivering favorable results for clients. Schedule a free initial consultation with us today by filling out our online contact form.