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Award-Winning Houston Maritime Injury Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a maritime accident, contact our dedicated Houston maritime injury lawyer at Morrow & Sheppard LLP for a free, confidential consultation.

  • Millions of Dollars Recovered for Our Clients

  • Hundreds of Cases Won in Excess of $1 Billion

  • Help With All Types of Maritime Injuries

  • A Track Record of Success

  • Only Pay If You Win

At Morrow & Sheppard LLP, our Houston maritime injury lawyers take pride in supporting injured maritime workers in their pursuit of compensation. The industry poses risks and potential injuries to seamen, underscoring the importance of partnering with knowledgeable maritime injury lawyers who understand the applicable laws. Work-related accidents can be painful and stressful, particularly for maritime workers. Obtaining compensation involves navigating a complex legal process governed by the Jones Act as well as the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. A Houston maritime injury lawyer can help you navigate the complexities and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free and confidential case evaluation today and let our experience work for you.

Our Dedicated Houston Maritime Injury Lawyers Strive to Secure the Compensation You Deserve Following a Maritime Accident

Maritime accidents can have serious consequences. If you or someone you care about gets injured, take action promptly. However, seeking compensation for maritime injuries is different from other personal injury claims. Special laws and unique factors come into play, requiring the expertise of a seasoned Houston maritime accident attorney. At Morrow & Sheppard LLP, our experienced lawyers have a track record of successfully handling these claims. We proudly help our clients from Houston, Texas, to other parts of the country, like Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. As an injured maritime worker, you have specific rights and avenues for compensation and need the best attorneys.

What is Maritime Law?

Hiring maritime injury lawyers for maritime accidents- Ship officer in the Bridge performing watch duties.

Knowing your rights as a maritime worker.

Maritime or admiralty law governs navigation, shipping, and water-related activities. It encompasses laws, rules, as well as procedures concerning marine resources, ocean commerce, and navigation. These regulations also resolve disputes and protect individuals and organizations operating on the water. When you’re on a boat, whether you’re part of the crew or a passenger, you have certain rights if you get hurt. Compensation can cover different things, like the wages you couldn’t earn because of the injury, the medical bills you had to pay, and even the emotional suffering you went through. Injuries linked to work on marine vessels or cruise activities fall under admiralty jurisdiction. Maritime law relies on case law and precedents rather than codified statutes, except for the Jones Act. Navigating these cases can be challenging, as personal injury lawyers may need more expertise. Therefore, consider choosing maritime injury lawyers or Jones Act lawyers well-versed in maritime law to ensure a fair pursuit of justice after an injury.

Jones Act

The Jones Act is a law made by the government to help American civilian mariners, US civilians, and federally-owned merchant vessels. It ensures American-flagged ships handle shipping between US ports. The Federal Employer’s Liability Act extension protects individuals (46 USC § 30104). People injured while working at sea can file personal injury lawsuits against their employers and choose to go to either federal or state court. The Jones Act grants them the right to a jury trial in these injury cases.

Maintenance and Cure

Seafarers injured at sea have a right to “maintenance and cure,” which covers daily living expenses and medical costs. Employers are obligated until the seafarer is fit for duty, or further treatment won’t help. Maritime law and the Jones Act provide these protections. In such cases, consulting skilled maritime injury lawyers is invaluable. They can help calculate appropriate support for living expenses as well as determine the extent of necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation. An attorney will strive to ensure individuals receive assistance for their injuries and associated challenges.

History of Maritime Law and the Jones Act

Maritime law evolved from the practical needs of Mediterranean countries involved in commerce since 900 BC. Medieval codes in European port cities shaped US law, incorporating the customs of mariners and merchants. The Admiralty refers to the legal system in British and American courts dealing with disputes related to the sea. The American courts incorporated English law but also established their jurisdiction. The Commerce Clause of Congress sets regulations for shipping. The Jones Act, a component of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, requires U.S.-built, owned, and crewed vessels for domestic shipping.

Does Maritime Law Apply on Land?

Yes. Maritime law applies even away from the ocean, including on docks, ports, and inland waterways, to activities both at sea and on land related to maritime trade. For example, a federal law, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, offers compensation to workers in harbors, ports, and shipyards. Maritime law also applies to marine insurance, protecting against cargo losses and ship damage. These laws extend to land-based incidents, injuries to workers on the job, and damage to vessels or cargo on land. Additionally, accidents in inland waters like lakes and rivers are subject to maritime law if they meet specific criteria.

Common Types of Maritime Incidents

Group of male maritime workers on a ship’s outside deck - consulting with maritime injury lawyers for accidents.

Knowing the causes of most common maritime accidents.

Despite a decline in incidents, severe mishaps persist. These catastrophic events stem from organizational factors. In fact, supervising and planning onboard vessels comes with challenges highlighting the need for qualified crews to enforce security. The following are common maritime safety incidents.

Accidents involving deck operations

Man-overboard situations are critical. They occur on ship-side activities such as washing, painting, working aloft, and outboard tasks. In fact, survival depends on various factors. Other common accidents include:

  • Slips and falls
  • Improper lifting
  • Compressed air accidents
  • Chemical exposure
  • Electrical accidents
  • Crane mishaps
  • Machinery accidents

Accidents on commercial fishing vessels

Although it’s impossible to foresee every incident, there are safety measures, and specific interventions fishermen can implement to minimize the chances of injuries or deaths at sea.

  • Collisions
  • Engine room fires
  • Capsizing
  • Grounding
  • Falls overboard
  • Machinery incidents

Jack-up rig accidents

Keeping offshore drilling rigs safe also requires a commitment to safety. Drilling companies must prioritize workers’ well-being to prevent accidents. Under the Jones Act, jack-up rig workers can seek compensation if injured due to negligence. Here are seven common accidents that drilling companies should work to prevent:

  1. Incidents involving crew boats, helicopters, and transfers
  2. Malfunctions in equipment and machinery
  3. Emergencies such as collapses, fires, explosions, and other catastrophes
  4. Accidents resulting from coworker negligence
  5. Instances of slips, trips, and falls on rigs and into water
  6. Exposure to toxic fumes or substances
  7. Accidents related to rig tongs and slips

Tugboat and barge accidents

Tugboats pose unique risks due to their small size and crowded spaces. In fact, accidents occur frequently, sometimes with fatal consequences. Causes include:

  • Mechanical failures
  • Collisions
  • Capsizing
  • Falls

Examples of incidents involve snapped hawsers causing injuries and deaths. Negligence plays a role, like a pilot causing a fatal collision while on a call. Safety is paramount for tugboat workers to mitigate these dangers.

Dredge accidents

Dredging accidents can also be catastrophic. Serious incidents resulted in fatalities, injuries, and property damage. Falls, drownings, as well as capsizing are common. Workers must prioritize safety, wearing personal flotation devices (PFDs). Typical physical and mental injuries include:

  • Shoulder injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Head injuries
  • Amputations
  • PTSD

Drilling rig accidents

Offshore drilling rigs can be dangerous. In fact, between 2001 and 2010, the US Minerals Management Service reported 1349 injuries. Common causes of drill rig accidents include:

  • Human error
  • Equipment failure
  • Lack of maintenance
  • The loss of one or more well barriers
  • Collisions
  • Rig collapse

How Morrow & Sheppard LLP Helps Injured Maritime Workers

Our experienced Houston maritime injury lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard LLP are here to protect your rights and secure compensation for your injuries as a maritime worker. We specialize in offshore accidents, chemical exposure injuries, as well as fires/explosions. The Jones Act is a powerful tool for injured seamen, providing better recovery opportunities than workers’ compensation. However, the statute is complex, requiring specific proof. The vessel owner, often the employer, can limit recovery through a Petition for Limitation of Liability, even if the vessel sinks. The statute of limitations is generally three years but can be as short as 22 months regarding government-owned vessels. That is why it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid denial. Our maritime injury lawyers represent clients in Texas and Louisiana, including those located in Houston, Beaumont, Dallas, Corpus Christi, Port Arthur, Lafayette, New Orleans, and the surrounding communities, and across the United States. With our experience representing large corporations and insurers, we understand the challenges individuals and small companies face. Contact us for a free consultation today!

What Our Clients Are Saying

Excellent
4.9
Rod A.
Rod A.
Thank you so much Griselda for great service and helping me..through of the case..
Dray H.
Dray H.
From the very first consultation, I was struck by their professionalism and commitment. Chris and Daniel took the time to listen to my concerns, understand our situation, and outline a clear path forward. It was apparent that they all were not just going through the motions; they were genuinely invested in achieving the best outcome for my son as he suffered a lot from being hit by a car. Throughout the process, their hard work was evident. Your choice of legal representation can make a world of difference, and I am fortunate to have found a lawyer and Firm who embodies these qualities. Thank you once again for everything; your efforts will not be forgotten. If you need an honest law firm that's going to be transparent and help get the best results, call Morrow and Sheppard.
FRANK H.
FRANK H.
They went through highs and lows to help me with my case. At the end we won thanks morrow & Sheppard so much…
Elena H.
Elena H.
They were professional and very helpful with everything. If had any questions they would be quick to respond and was able to help me understand it better on things during the whole case. Thank you so much and keep up the excellent work.
Pavan L.
Pavan L.
I must recommend MS LLP for their superb services. Their team is very attentive and responsive in assisting at all times.
Cynthia D.
Cynthia D.
Griselda was so helpful and knowledgeable! She made the entire experience seamless and went the extra mile on our case. We are so happy we chose Morrow & Sheppard to represent us!
Michael J.
Michael J.
John Sheppard and Chris West did an outstanding job in representing me following a rear-end collision. Highly recommended!
Jeff S.
Jeff S.
Nick and Laura are the best..They helped every step of the way.Can’t recommend them highly enough.Not only do they get results but they care and make you feel like family.
Cassandra M.
Cassandra M.
They were very professional and understanding. The have patience and do their job well. If I had to return I would with no hesitation
Juber M.
Juber M.
4 months agoI am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Nick Morrow end Laura on my case With the rest of his staff. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Laura end Nick would keep me up to date with the status of my case … More , They fought for me to get the best settlement possible.. I am happy with the outcome Thank you Nick and the staff Of MORROW END SHEPPARD LLP
Candace M.
Candace M.
Chris West is an excellent addition to the Morrow & Sheppard team. His skill set, dedication, and overall reliability he brings to the firm and clients are uncanny. You will not be disappointed.
Melis R.
Melis R.
I highly recommend the Morrow & Sheppard to anyone. They are an incredible group that did an outstanding job to make sure I got the highest settlement for my case. Attorney Daniel and his staff are all outstanding professionals with some serious case law knowledge and skill. His group went the extra mile for me and because of that, my life has forever changed. Thank you Attorney Daniel and everyone that’s a part of his firm that worked so hard. I really appreciate you!
D P.
D P.
I am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Daniel Sheppard and Chris on my case. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Daniel would keep me up to date with the status of my case and Chris would also ensure all my paper work was submitted in a timely manner. I am Very Happy with the Outcome! Thank you Daniel and Chris. I highly recommend their services and would not hesitate to use them again.
Nikki L.
Nikki L.
Very strong and courageous law firm I recommend to anyone who has suffered a injury from companies who need to be held responsible for lack of safety and security, my family is set for life and with these lawyers never backing down and fighting for truth behind every case and seeking the best future for our family has given our family a second chance at being able to make it in life and holding companies accountable lifting burdens off our lives, very proud and beyond blessed to have had them fight the fight and have a tremendous outcome for our future. Along with a great and kind staff we HIGHLY recommend this law firm.
Marceline A.
Marceline A.
I was a client for 2.5 years after a car accident in 2019 and represented by Patrick McGinnis. He was knowledgable, compassionate, and level headed.His assisting paralegal, Ramona Anaya, was reliable, knowledgable, and kind in all our interactions.They went above and beyond to help me navigate everything that unfolded after my car accident. They were able to secure a favorable settlement before trial.I’m very happy to have had Morrow&Sheppard Firm represent me.
angel martinez J.
angel martinez J.
Professional and knowledgeable with years of experience.
Richard L.
Richard L.
I had a accident and I chose morrow&sheppard they was great from the start to the finish Chris was real informative and helpful was the whole process and got me a fair settlement they really care about there Clients if you in a car accident call them
Amanda W.
Amanda W.
After a car accident last year I went to Morrow & Sheppard for assistance. Jose and Chris were exceptionally accommodating and handled my case with professionalism. They're primary concern was my well being and they went above and beyond to ensure I would receive the best settlement possible. A very efficient and dedicated team!
Susan L.
Susan L.
I've been in the legal field for a while now and not only do I know John Sheppard & Nick Morrow, I have attorney friends that have worked with them throughout the years. This is a great firm and great people that work at Morrow & Sheppard. I have been reading the reviews on here and it makes me happy to see that their clients think as highly of them as I do.
Dale S.
Dale S.
I was injured and my business closed down due to an accident in 2016. Daniel Sheppard became my greatest asset. He hired professional experts for their views and opinions as well as conducting numerous depositions. Daniel is hard working and no nonsense when handling your case. Daniel keeps you informed on what's going on and what to expect. I'm from Louisiana and my case was in Texas. Daniel Sheppard worked alone side my other attorney Yuri Beck, and the both of them did a fantastic job representing me and settling my case. Daniel Sheppard of Morrow & Sheppard in Texas and Yuri Beck of Hunter & Beck in Louisiana are my lawyers for LIFE.
Rosie E.
Rosie E.
Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were the lead attorneys on my case to hold an apartment complex with inadequate security responsible for the death of my son. The two of them were focused and determined to represent me and my son's children with tenacity. As the case continued over time, it became apparent that we were not merely clients that were a means to a financial end to them but people who had experienced a life changing and devastating loss. They realized that as a result of our loss, there needed to be accountability that could only be obtained through legal actions. Throughout the legal process, Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were not only professional and transparent but also compassionate and empathetic as they lead us through the difficult and sometimes confusing legal maze. Every person in their office that was involved with our case exemplified an extension of the genuine concern that began with attorneys Morrow and Sheppard. I have and will continue to recommend this firm to individuals who find themselves in need of legal representation.
Don D.
Don D.
The legal team at Morrow and Shepherd worked hard to help me win my case where a motorist who caused the accident changed her story and lied about the accident. A previous attorney kept telling me that I would probably have to pay some of the medical costs out of my own pocket.Daniel, my attorney, assured me that he would it is best to make sure this did not happen and that he would fight to get me the best compensation possible. He was true to his word.I'm happy with their work, happy with the compensation and would definitely use them again.The Legal Assistant, Chris, was always professional, friendly and polite and a pleasure to work with.A big thanks to the team!Don
Jeff N.
Jeff N.
Nick and his group have helped where they can and are working hard to get a resolution to my injuries. I spoke with 4 different law firms prior to choosing Morrow & Sheppard LLP.ThanksJeff
Elizabeth Swanson V.
Elizabeth Swanson V.
I was referred to Daniel Sheppard because of a car accident I had been in. I was very impressed with how he told me about the process of how things worked and the things to expect. He was very forth coming and always supportive. The experience was a positive one and ended on a great note! I highly recommend him.Elizabeth Varon
Christine E.
Christine E.
Before I engaged John Sheppard, I was concerned that I might lose my case. However, John came onboard, turned things around, and set me on a good course to win. He got up to speed quickly on the facts and determined exactly what we needed to do. He is great at strategy, filing discovery and other motions, and arguing before the court. I was extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. If you need legal help in a personal injury action, commercial law or whatever, hire him immediately! He is a pleasure to work with, will thoroughly explain all to you in a manner you can understand, and will get you the best possible outcome. A+++
BB C.
BB C.
I was seriously injured and they represented me and I was so happy with the outcome and would recommend them to any others seeking professional lawyers. They also set me up with the best doctors. My son and I have now put this lawsuit behind us thanks to Morrow & Sheppard.
Stephen T.
Stephen T.
Phenomenal lawyer. I can not heap enough praise on these guys,.
III 4.
III 4.
Nick Morrow is a GREAT lawyer that really knows his job. He made me feel comfortable about hiring him to handle my case. He’s trustworthy and very compassionate about his work. His staff is awesome also, everyone was nice and friendly to me when I visited the office. The settlement I received exceeded my expectations, it was four times what I expected. I would highly recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone needing legal representation. Thanks again Nick!!
tim C.
tim C.
I was injured working offshore. Morrow & Sheppard handled my maritime case and won a great settlement for me. If you have been injured at work, Morrow & Sheppard are great offshore injury lawyers.
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