Houston Maritime Attorney: Protecting Your Rights in Maritime Accidents
When you are working on a vessel, offshore platform, or any other maritime setting, you face unique risks that require the expertise of a maritime attorney. If you are injured while working at sea, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. A Houston maritime attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that your rights are protected.
In this article, we will discuss what a Houston maritime attorney does, what types of cases they handle, and how to choose the right attorney for your case. We will also provide answers to some common questions about maritime law and your rights as a maritime worker.
What Is a Houston Maritime Attorney?
A Houston maritime attorney is a legal professional who specializes in maritime law. Maritime law is a specialized area of law that governs activities that take place on or near the sea, including shipping, boating, and offshore oil and gas operations.
Houston is a major center for maritime activities, with a large port and a significant offshore oil and gas industry. As a result, Houston maritime attorneys have extensive experience in handling a wide range of maritime legal issues.
What Types of Cases Does a Houston Maritime Attorney Handle?
Houston maritime attorneys handle a wide range of cases, including:
Jones Act Claims
The Jones Act is a federal law that provides seamen with the right to sue their employers for negligence if they are injured while working at sea. A Houston maritime attorney can help you file a Jones Act claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act Claims
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides benefits to maritime workers who are injured on the job but are not covered by the Jones Act. A Houston maritime attorney can help you navigate the LHWCA claims process and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
Offshore Accidents
Working offshore can be dangerous, and accidents can happen. A Houston maritime attorney can help you if you are injured in an offshore accident, such as an explosion or a vessel collision.
Oil and Gas Industry Accidents
The oil and gas industry is a major part of Houston’s economy, but it is also a hazardous industry. A Houston maritime attorney can help you if you are injured while working in the oil and gas industry, whether onshore or offshore.
How to Choose the Right Houston Maritime Attorney
When choosing a Houston maritime attorney, it is important to look for someone with experience in handling maritime cases. You should also look for an attorney who is responsive and communicative, and who will keep you informed throughout the legal process.
You can also look for an attorney who offers a free consultation, so you can discuss your case with them and determine if they are the right fit for you.
Common Questions About Houston Maritime Law
What is the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act?
The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) is a federal law that provides for the exploration and development of offshore mineral resources, including oil and gas. It also provides for the regulation of offshore activities, including safety and environmental standards.
What is the statute of limitations for maritime injury claims?
The statute of limitations for maritime injury claims varies depending on the specific claim and the state where the claim is filed. In Texas, the statute of limitations for Jones Act claims is three years from the date of the injury, while the statute of limitations for LHWCA claims is one year from the date of the injury.
Can I file a claim if I am injured while working on a foreign-flagged vessel?
Yes, you may be able to file a claim if you are injured while working on a foreign-flagged vessel. However, the laws that govern your claim