The Port of Houston, located in Houston, Texas, is one of the world’s largest and busiest ports. It is a major point of international trade for the United States, with thriving maritime activities, offshore drilling industries, and commercial fishing, which greatly contribute to the region’s economy.
Billions of dollars in trade and industry pass through the Houston port, and this is made possible by hardworking maritime employees like seamen, harbor workers, offshore workers, and dock workers.
However, along with the high volume of trade that moves in and out of the port, there is also a high probability of work-related injuries.
If you are faced with a maritime accident, you need to hire a Houston maritime injury attorney. Having an expert who can help you navigate the complex legal landscape is important.
Why Do You Need An Experienced Maritime Injury Attorney
Houston maritime attorneys have the knowledge and experience to help you understand your rights. A maritime lawyer can also help you gather evidence, file a worker’s compensation claim, and negotiate with insurance companies.
They can also represent you in court if necessary.
This article will explore why you need to hire a Houston maritime attorney and how their expertise in admiralty law can make a difference in your case.
In-depth Knowledge of Maritime Law Such as Harbor Workers Compensation Act
Maritime laws are one of the most complicated areas of law. It is a highly specialized area of the legal system that oversees activities and disputes related to navigable waters. These laws can be tricky and differ from land-based laws.
Hiring a sea accident lawyer guarantees you have an expert who possesses in-depth knowledge of maritime laws and regulations. They have handled dozens of cases similar to yours in the past and have the necessary arsenal to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
They are well-versed in maritime laws such as the following,
Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) The Jones act protect seamen who suffered serious injuries because of offshore accidents and injuries.
This law ensures that all seamen should be provided with adequate and reasonable food, shelter, and medical care while on board the maritime vessel like cargo ships. It also includes regulation of United States port commerce.
The Longshore Harbor and Workers’ Compensation Act is a law that protects maritime workers who are not qualified as a seaman under naval laws. It works the same as regular worker’s compensation but is designed to protect harbor workers operating in ports.
Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) This particular law is for the dependents of seamen and other maritime workers. It provides the dependents compensation, damages, medical costs, funeral and burial expenses in the event of death while on the job.
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act This law protects maritime workers, such as workers of offshore oil rigs, between the open ocean and the continent.
Determination of Liability in a Maritime Accident
It can be challenging to determine the liability in sea accidents. Multiple parties may be involved, such as vessel owners, maritime companies, crew members, operators, manufacturers, and insurance companies.
A lawyer can meticulously investigate the accident and identify the parties responsible. They will assess negligence of vessel owners, adherence to safety protocols by maritime employers, and other factors contributing to the incident.
By establishing the liability, they can build a compelling maritime injury case to hold the negligent parties accountable.
Experience in Handling Insurance Companies for Injured Maritime Workers
Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be daunting and often intimidating. These companies have a team of lawyers and adjusters who aim to minimize the amount of compensation. This is why having injury attorneys by your side is important.
They have experience in negotiating with insurance adjusters and understand the strategies that they employ. Having a maritime injury lawyer handle all the communications can ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
Access to Expert Witnesses and Resources
When determining liability, the testimony of expert witnesses is often needed. Experienced injury attorneys can access resources and a network of expert witnesses, such as medical professionals. Having these witnesses provide testimony on your behalf can help strengthen your case.
They can establish the extent of your maritime injuries and damages. In addition, they have access to investigative teams and cutting-edge technology.
Timely Filing of Maritime Claims
Like in most cases, specific deadlines and statutes of limitations need to be observed when you are filing a maritime claim. Failure to follow these timelines could result in you losing your chances to seek maximum compensation and recover damages.
A maritime injury lawyer well-versed in maritime law ensures that the necessary paperwork will be filed promptly. By having a competent lawyer to handle injury claims, you know that you are in good hands.
Litigation Representation
One can hope that your claim may be settled out of court; however, there are instances when it may require litigation, especially if a fair settlement cannot be reached. This is where a maritime injury lawyer would need to represent you in court.
Hiring a maritime attorney is important for anyone involved in maritime accidents. With their in-depth knowledge of federal law and maritime law, they can protect your legal rights, guide you through the complex legal process, and maximize the financial compensation you deserve. Their ability to investigate and gather evidence, determine liability, and negotiate with any insurance company is invaluable.
If litigation becomes necessary, they will provide skilled representation. By engaging a maritime injury lawyer, you can confidently navigate the aftermath of a sea accident, knowing that you have a legal expert fighting for your best interests.
If you have a maritime injury case, do not waste time and contact a Houston sea accident attorney immediately. They can protect your legal rights and get you recover compensation that you deserve.
Tips for Finding Good Houston Maritime Injury Lawyers
Ask for referrals from colleagues, family, or friends. If you work in the maritime industry, there is a good chance that you have a colleague who has filed a maritime injury claim or know of someone who has been in one.
This is a great way to find a qualified attorney whom you can trust. Friends and family are valuable resources as most have your best interest in mind.
Do your research. In a thriving metropolis like Houston, there are plenty of qualified and experienced Houston maritime injury lawyers to choose from. Take some time to research different maritime attorneys and compare their qualifications and experience.
Ask questions. Once you have found a couple of maritime lawyers that you are interested in, schedule consultations with them. There are plenty of Houston maritime lawyers that offer free consultation. During the consultations, ask about their experience and the cases they have handled in the past.
The lawyer’s answers give you a general idea about his knowledge of maritime law and how he can help you.
Trust your gut. Make sure you are comfortable with the attorney you want to work with. Maritime cases can sometimes be a long and arduous process. Having an advocate that you wholly trust gives you peace of mind.
Getting a Houston maritime injury attorney is important when faced with the aftermath of a sea accident. By enlisting the help of an attorney, you are increasing your chance of receiving the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. So, do not hesitate to contact the Morgan Legal Group lawyer if you are involved in a maritime accident. You can confidently pursue your claim, knowing that you have a Houston maritime lawyer fighting for your best interests.