Our Houston offshore accident and injury attorney, Charles J. Argento, knows that these types of cases are never as straightforward as they may seem. Even if you know exactly how your accident happened, and who the liable party is, there is a lot of blame to go around the industry when someone gets hurt or killed.
Whether you are a civilian, contractor, or maritime worker, it is unlikely that the liable party is going to raise their hand and take responsibility for the incident that caused your injuries or that resulted in the loss of your loved one’s life.
That is where our Harris County personal injury lawyer comes in. Whether you were working offshore on an oil rig or onboard a tinder on your way to or from work, our Texas offshore accident and injury attorney can help you pursue a claim against the liable party using all applicable laws that protect American workers at sea.
What Is an Offshore Accident in Houston, TX?
An offshore accident in Houston, TX, occurs when an injury or incident takes place while working on an oil rig, ship, or platform in the Gulf of Mexico or nearby waters. These accidents can involve dangerous equipment, hazardous materials, falls, explosions, or mechanical failures.
Such incidents can lead to serious injuries or fatalities, often requiring legal assistance for workers’ compensation, maritime laws, and liability claims to secure proper compensation. The aftermath can be life-changing, causing lost wages, rising medical expenses, and long-term disabilities.
The Daly & Black Advantage in Offshore Litigation
Daly & Black stands out in offshore litigation with a proven track record of successfully handling complex maritime and offshore injury cases. With extensive experience, their team of skilled attorneys offers personalized attention, ensuring each case is thoroughly investigated and pursued with determination. Their offshore accident laws and commitment to obtaining maximum compensation make them a trusted ally for injured workers in Houston and beyond.
What are the Most Common Causes of Texas Offshore Accidents and Injuries?
Whether you work for the Port Authority, on the docks, cargo ships, commercial fishing, and diving, or in the oil and gas industry, when negligence is a factor, people can, and will, get hurt or killed in these already dangerous professions.
The most common types of accidents that lead to maritime and offshore injuries in Texas may include, but are not limited to:
Dock and Pier Accidents
Collisions at Sea
Boating Accidents
Electrocutions
Failing to Detect and Repair Faulty Equipment
Crane Accidents
Fishing and Diving Injuries
Explosions and Fires
Falling Overboard
Inadequate Training
Mooring Operations
Exposure to Harmful or Toxic Chemicals
Injuries in Enclosed Spaces
Overworked Maritime Employees
Moving, Swinging, and Falling Objects
Slips, Trips, and Fall Accidents
Shipyard Accidents
Failing to Keep Workers Safe During Adverse Weather Conditions
Wrongful Death
Because of the nature of the industries associated with offshore work, accidents and injuries that occur away from land are often catastrophic and may include severe burn injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and crushing injuries or amputations. When these injuries occur at sea, the time it takes for medical emergency personnel to arrive — or for the injured to be transported — can increase the severity of the injuries or lead to tragic deaths.
What Are the Most Common Injuries in Offshore Accidents?
Offshore work is demanding and can be dangerous. Injuries in this environment can be severe and vary greatly. Some common injuries include:
Severe burns: Whether from fires, explosions, or chemical exposure, burn injuries can be life-altering and require extensive treatment.
Broken bones and fractures: Falls, being struck by falling objects, or getting caught in machinery can cause fractures, sometimes necessitating surgery and long-term recovery.
Head and brain injuries: Even seemingly minor head impacts can lead to concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) with lasting effects.
Back and neck injuries: Twisting, heavy lifting, or sudden impacts can cause significant spinal and neck damage.
Crushing injuries and amputations: Heavy equipment accidents can cause limb loss or severe trauma.
Exposure to toxic substances: Workers may be exposed to harmful chemicals, which can cause respiratory issues and long-term health problems.
Because offshore work is remote, even minor injuries can escalate into more serious conditions without immediate medical attention. A harsh work environment increases the risk of injury.
What Should You Do After an Offshore Accident in Houston, TX?
If you’ve been injured in an offshore accident near Houston, taking the right steps immediately afterward can make a significant difference in your recovery and potential claim. It might seem overwhelming, especially if you’re in pain or shock, but acting quickly and correctly is crucial.
Here’s a breakdown of the actions you should focus on:
Get Medical Help Right Away: Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor initially, seek medical attention immediately. A medical professional can properly diagnose and treat your condition and, importantly, document your injuries. This documentation is vital for your claim.
Report the Incident: Notify your supervisor or the person in charge about the accident as soon as possible. This ensures your employer officially logs the incident and preserves the details for future legal proceedings.
Document Everything You Can: If it’s safe to do so, take pictures or videos of the accident scene, including any faulty equipment, the accident site, and the condition of the vessel or platform. Also, collect the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Don’t Discuss Fault: While you might want to understand the cause of the accident, avoid admitting fault or discussing blame with anyone other than your legal representative. Stick to the facts when talking to your employer or insurance adjusters.
Your actions after an offshore accident can affect your ability to receive compensation. It’s important to consult with an experienced Houston offshore accident lawyer soon to understand your rights and options.
What Are the Deadlines for Filing Offshore Accident Claims in Houston, TX?
After an offshore accident, it’s crucial to act quickly. Missing legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, can prevent you from receiving any compensation for your injuries, regardless of how severe they are.
Here’s an overview of deadlines for offshore accident claims:
The Jones Act: If you’re a seaman, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Claims involving the U.S. government may have a two-year deadline.
Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA): Typically, you have one year from the injury date to file. If you develop an occupational disease, you may have up to two years from the date of diagnosis.
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA): Claims under this act generally have a two-year deadline from the accident date, aligning with Texas law.
Texas State Law: For general personal injury or wrongful death claims under Texas law, you typically have two years from the accident date or the date of death.
It’s important to determine which law applies to your situation. To ensure you meet all deadlines and avoid losing your right to compensation, consult with a lawyer who has experience in offshore accidents.
How Long Do Offshore Accident Cases Take to Resolve in Houston, TX?
The duration of an offshore accident case in Houston varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, the willingness to settle, and the court’s schedule. Complex cases and serious injuries may take longer, while quicker settlements are possible if parties are cooperative. A lawyer can provide a more accurate timeline after reviewing your case.
What Type of Compensation Can I Pursue After Being Injured in an Offshore Accident in Texas?
At Charles J. Argento, our offshore accident and injury attorneys outline each of our client’s unique financial recovery needs based on how their daily activities and overall quality of life have been impacted by another person, party, or entity’s negligence.
That may include pursuing financial compensation for your complete recovery needs for:
Past and Future Medical Expenses
Loss of Past And Future Wages
Loss of Wage-Earning Capacity
Reduced Future Earning Capacity
Past and Future Mental Anguish
Past and Future Pain and Suffering
Physical Impairment or Disfigurement
Permanent Injuries
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a Texas offshore accident caused by negligence, contact our experienced personal injury attorney in Houston at Charles J. Argento today to schedule a free consultation by calling 713-225-5050 or by contacting us online.
Why Choose Charles J. Argento & Associates in Houston, TX?
Choosing the right legal team after an offshore accident is crucial to the success of your case. Look for a law firm with:
Experience in offshore accident cases: Not all lawyers handle these specialized cases. You need a lawyer familiar with maritime law and the complexities of offshore injury claims.
Proven success: Seek a firm with a track record of securing substantial compensation for clients in offshore accident cases.
Personalized attention: You should feel like your case matters. A good firm will keep you informed and guide you through the legal process.
If you’ve been injured offshore, consult with a legal team that will fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
At Charles J. Argento & Associates, Our Law Firm Also Focuses on the Following Practice Areas:
Need Help After an Offshore Injury? Contact Our Houston Offshore Accident Lawyers Today.
Offshore work presents challenges, and accidents can occur unexpectedly. If you’ve been injured while working offshore, don’t face this difficult time alone. Our team of experienced offshore accident lawyers in Houston is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at 713-225-5050 for a free consultation, and let us help you recover and move forward after your offshore injury.
Our law firm is not paid until we secure a settlement or verdict in your case.
Charles J. Argento focuses his practice on serious personal injury, auto accidents, wrongful death, and product liability. With over 37+ years of experience, he is known for aggressive representation and securing high-value results for injured clients across Texas. He has earned numerous prestigious awards, including Super Lawyer, AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell for 22 consecutive years, and a 10/10 rating by Avvo.
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Frequently Asked Questions for Houston Offshore Accident
Offshore accidents generally involve injuries or fatalities that occur while working on oil rigs, drilling platforms, vessels, or other maritime job sites in the Gulf of Mexico. These cases often fall under special laws like the Jones Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, which differ from traditional Texas state injury laws.
Unlike standard workplace injuries covered by Texas workers’ compensation, offshore accidents often fall under federal maritime law. The Jones Act and related maritime regulations allow injured workers to sue their employers for negligence, something not typically available in land-based work injury cases.
Even if your employer operates from another state or country, you may still be eligible to bring your claim in Houston under federal maritime law. Our team can evaluate where to file your claim to maximize your legal advantage.
Yes, under the Jones Act, seamen and offshore workers can file a negligence claim directly against their employer if unsafe conditions, inadequate maintenance, or human error caused their injury. Our Houston attorneys assess each case to ensure the applicable laws are applied.
Most compensation for personal injuries, such as medical expenses and lost wages, is not taxable under federal law. However, certain portions, such as emotional distress not tied to a physical injury or punitive damages, may be. Our legal team helps clients understand and plan for potential tax impacts.
Yes. Maritime law often follows a rule known as comparative negligence, meaning you can still recover damages even if you share partial responsibility. The amount you receive may simply be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Key evidence includes accident reports, witness statements, photos or videos of the scene, medical records, maintenance logs, and communication records with supervisors. Early legal representation ensures that this evidence is preserved and used effectively in your case.
Yes. While your employer or insurer may recommend certain doctors, you have the right to seek an independent medical evaluation. An objective medical report can significantly strengthen your offshore injury claim.
713-225-5050 
Our Houston offshore accident and injury attorney, Charles J. Argento, knows that these types of cases are never as straightforward as they may seem. Even if you know exactly how your accident happened, and who the liable party is, there is a lot of blame to go around the industry when someone gets hurt or killed.
