Maritime work is inherently dangerous. Whether you’re employed on a commercial ship, an offshore oil rig, a fishing boat, or a harbor tug, your job involves risks that most land-based workers never face. When accidents happen at sea, the legal landscape can be vastly different from standard workplace injury claims. That’s where a Houston maritime attorney comes in.
But when exactly should you contact one?
Here’s a comprehensive guide on when and why you should reach out to a maritime lawyer based in Houston—a city at the heart of the U.S. maritime and offshore industry.
1. After an Offshore Injury or Accident
One of the most critical times to contact a maritime attorney is immediately after you suffer an injury while working offshore or on navigable waters.
Common offshore injuries include:
- Slips and falls on deck
- Crane accidents
- Burns from explosions or fires
- Equipment failures
- Falls from heights
- Chemical exposure
Under laws like the Jones Act or General Maritime Law, injured seamen may be entitled to compensation, but time is of the essence. An experienced Houston maritime attorney will ensure that your rights are protected, help gather crucial evidence, and file your claim within the strict legal deadlines.
2. If Your Employer Denies or Delays Medical Treatment
By law, maritime employers are generally required to provide prompt medical care to injured workers. If your employer delays or denies treatment—or pressures you to see a company-approved doctor—you should speak to a lawyer right away.
An attorney can intervene to:
- Secure independent medical evaluations
- Ensure you receive proper treatment
- Prevent employer retaliation
This is especially important under the Maintenance and Cure doctrine, which mandates that injured seamen receive basic living expenses and medical care until they reach maximum medical recovery (MMR).
3. When You’re Offered a Settlement
If your employer or their insurance company offers you a settlement soon after your injury, do not sign anything without speaking to a maritime lawyer.
Many injured workers are offered quick settlements that:
- Are far below what they’re entitled to
- Waive their rights to further compensation
- Fail to cover long-term medical costs or lost income
A Houston maritime attorney can evaluate the settlement, negotiate better terms, or take the case to court if necessary.
4. After a Maritime Wrongful Death
If you’ve lost a loved one due to an offshore or maritime accident, you may have a wrongful death claim under laws like:
- The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA)
- The Jones Act
- General Maritime Law
In such cases, the surviving spouse, children, or dependents may be entitled to damages for loss of income, emotional distress, and funeral costs.
A skilled attorney can provide support during this difficult time and pursue justice on your behalf.
5. If Your Injury Occurred in Port or While Transferring
Injuries don’t always happen out at sea. Many maritime workers are hurt during:
- Loading and unloading cargo
- Transferring from vessels to docks or rigs
- Shipyard operations
Whether you’re a longshoreman, dockworker, or crew member injured in port, different laws might apply—such as the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). A maritime lawyer will determine which laws cover your case and help you file a claim accordingly.
6. When Negligence or Unseaworthiness Is Involved
You may be entitled to greater compensation if your injury was caused by:
- A co-worker’s negligence
- Unsafe working conditions
- Faulty equipment
- Lack of safety procedures
The Jones Act allows you to sue your employer for negligence. Similarly, under the doctrine of unseaworthiness, vessel owners can be held liable if the ship or its equipment was unsafe.
A maritime lawyer can build your case by:
- Investigating the cause of the accident
- Collecting witness statements
- Reviewing vessel logs and maintenance records
7. To Protect Your Rights as a Maritime Worker
Maritime law is complex. Many workers don’t realize they have rights until it’s too late. A maritime attorney can:
- Explain your legal rights and options
- Help you avoid common legal pitfalls
- File lawsuits before the statute of limitations expires (often 3 years, but sometimes less)
Whether you’re a seaman, diver, oil rig worker, or longshoreman, you have specific protections under federal maritime law that an attorney can help enforce.
8. For Legal Advice During an Investigation
If an accident is under investigation by the Coast Guard, your employer, or any federal agency, it’s wise to have legal representation. What you say can be used against you, and your employer’s legal team may try to shift the blame.
A Houston maritime lawyer can:
- Advise you on your rights during interviews
- Ensure you don’t unintentionally waive your claims
- Represent you during formal inquiries
Why Choose a Houston Maritime Attorney?
Houston is home to one of the busiest ports in the U.S. and serves as a hub for offshore oil and gas activity. Local maritime attorneys are:
- Experienced in Gulf Coast maritime cases
- Familiar with the regional offshore industry
- Connected to local courts and maritime investigators
Hiring a Houston-based attorney ensures you get someone with the knowledge, experience, and regional expertise needed to handle your case effectively.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been injured offshore or have any concerns related to maritime employment, don’t wait to seek legal counsel. A Houston maritime attorney can be the difference between receiving fair compensation or being left without the resources you need to recover.
Key takeaway: If you’re hurt at sea, on the docks, or working in a maritime-related role, contact a Houston maritime attorney as soon as possible—especially before speaking to your employer or their insurance company.