Houston Commercial Fishing Accident

Houston Commercial Fishing Accident Lawyers

Commercial fishing continues to be one of the most hazardous occupations in the United States. In 2019, commercial fishermen faced a fatality rate over 40 times higher than the national average. Key risks include vessel disasters, falls overboard, and machinery-related incidents on deck. This high-risk environment is further compounded by factors like heavy weather, long work hours, strenuous labor, and handling hazardous machinery.

The Houston maritime lawyers at Johnson Garcia understand the significant risks involved in commercial fishing. With our expertise in maritime law, we are well-equipped to assist those who have suffered injuries in the commercial fishing industry. We provide legal support tailored to the unique challenges commercial fishermen face, helping you navigate the complexities of maritime law to seek rightful compensation for your injuries. We are committed to giving our clients the support and justice they deserve in these high-risk cases.

Call us today at 832-844-6700 for a free case evaluation with an experienced Houston work injury lawyer.

What Is Commercial Fishing?

Commercial fishing refers to the industry focused on catching fish and other seafood for commercial profit, primarily for food consumption. This industry is a crucial part of the global food supply chain, harvesting a wide variety of species from both coastal and deep-sea waters. Commercial fishing involves various methods and equipment, including trawling, netting, and longlining. The work is often characterized by challenging conditions, such as long hours, physically demanding tasks, and hazardous environments, making it one of the most dangerous professions.

Common Types of Commercial Fishing Accidents in Houston

Commercial fishing accidents can have serious consequences, impacting the health and livelihoods of those involved:

Vessel Disasters. These often result in loss of life or severe injuries and can lead to prolonged rescue operations in treacherous conditions.
Falls Overboard. Falling into the sea poses risks of drowning, hypothermia, and injuries from impact on the vessel or equipment.
Machinery Accidents. Injuries from machinery are usually severe, including lacerations, amputations, or crushing injuries.
Entanglement Injuries. Entanglements can lead to drowning, traumatic injuries, or even fatal accidents.
Slips and Falls on Deck. These accidents can cause head injuries, broken bones, or other serious traumas.
Diving Accidents. These pose unique risks such as decompression sickness, drowning, or injuries from underwater equipment.
Collisions. Colliding with other vessels or objects can cause significant damage and injuries to crew members.
Weather-Related Incidents. Harsh weather conditions can lead to various accidents, from vessel damage to injuries from being tossed by rough seas.

In cases like these, Johnson Garcia’s maritime lawyers play a crucial role in helping victims navigate the legal complexities and secure necessary compensation. We understand the impacts of such accidents and work to create a strong case so that victims receive fair treatment and support for their recovery.

Common Commercial Fishing Accident Injuries in Houston

In commercial fishing, a range of serious injuries can occur, each with significant impacts on the lives of workers:

Traumatic Brain Injuries. Caused by falls or impacts, these can lead to long-term cognitive issues. Johnson Garcia helps in proving the negligence that led to these injuries, aiding in securing comprehensive compensation.
Spinal Cord Injuries. Resulting from severe trauma, these injuries can cause paralysis. The firm works on establishing the full impact of such injuries for appropriate compensation claims.
Burns and Scars. Due to fires or hot equipment, these injuries can require extensive medical treatment. Johnson Garcia assists in claiming compensation for ongoing medical care and the impact on the victim’s quality of life.
Broken Bones and Fractures. Common in falls or collisions, these injuries can impede a fisherman’s ability to work. The firm focuses on providing these impacts to secure compensation for medical expenses and lost income.
Drowning and Hypothermia. In overboard incidents, these conditions can be life-threatening. Johnson Garcia works to establish liability in such cases to secure necessary medical and recovery costs.
Death. In the most tragic outcomes, Johnson Garcia provides support to families for wrongful death claims, focusing on securing compensation for their loss.

In each scenario, our maritime law expertise guides establishing accountability and obtaining just compensation for the injuries sustained. This is vital for securing fair and just compensation, which covers medical expenses, loss of income, and other damages suffered by the injured party. Our legal support transforms complex maritime laws into tangible benefits for their clients.

Safety Regulations For Fishing Industry Vessels in Houston

Safety regulations for fishing industry vessels, guided by the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and U.S. Maritime Law, are pivotal in ensuring the safety of fishermen. The Jones Act enables injured seamen to claim damages for employer negligence, while the Longshore Act offers compensation to maritime workers not classified as seamen. U.S. Maritime Law covers general aspects like vessel seaworthiness.

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) plays a critical role in enforcing safety regulations in the commercial fishing industry. Their oversight extends to ensuring vessels are properly maintained and equipped with necessary safety gear and that crews receive adequate training.

This comprehensive approach helps minimize the risk of accidents and injuries, thereby enhancing fishermen’s overall safety and welfare. The USCG’s involvement is fundamental in upholding high safety standards, making their enforcement and inspection processes key to the well-being of those working at sea.

Compensation for Injuries on a Fishing Boat in Houston

Navigating the seas of compensation for injuries sustained on fishing boats can be complex, and each type of compensation serves a unique purpose in a fisherman’s recovery journey.

Maintenance and Cure

This provides injured fishermen with coverage for medical expenses and basic living costs during recovery. At Johnson Garcia, we meticulously document all related expenses, ensuring a comprehensive coverage claim for our clients.

Jones Act Claims

This act covers a wider range of damages, including pain, suffering, and lost wages due to employer negligence. We focus on gathering solid evidence and presenting a strong case that truly reflects the extent of our client’s injuries and losses.

Unseaworthiness Claims

This pertains to injuries resulting from a vessel being unfit. Our team assesses vessel conditions to establish liability and enhance compensation claims for our clients.

Third-Party Claims

We handle claims involving external parties responsible for the injury, ensuring all contributing factors are addressed.

At Johnson Garcia, our approach is to provide detailed, diligent legal support, focusing on each client’s unique situation and securing their rightful compensation. Our approach to handling compensation claims for fishing boat injuries is rooted in a deep understanding of the challenges faced by commercial fishermen.

Our goal is to provide comprehensive legal support tailored to each client’s individual situation. We strive to guide fishermen through their recovery journey, focusing on their rights and well-being and aligning our efforts with the overarching goal of the fishing community’s resilience and recovery.

Reporting a Work Injury on a Fishing Boat

Reporting a work injury on a fishing boat involves a clear process to ensure proper handling and documentation:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health is of the utmost importance. Even if injuries seem minor, getting checked by a medical professional is essential. This ensures proper care and provides a medical record of the incident.

Report the Injury to Your Supervisor

Informing your supervisor or captain immediately after an injury is legally crucial because it ensures the incident is officially recorded. Maritime law and company policies often mandate timely reporting.

This documentation is essential for any future claims, as it establishes the facts of the incident and provides a basis for legal action if needed. It also serves as a key step in initiating the process of claiming any entitled benefits or compensation under maritime laws like the Jones Act.

Document the Injury and Incident

Gathering comprehensive information after an injury on a fishing boat is critical for legal reasons. Taking photos of your injuries and the accident scene and writing a detailed account of how the injury occurred provides concrete evidence for any legal proceedings. This evidence is invaluable in building a strong case, especially if the injury leads to a compensation claim. It helps to establish the circumstances of the incident clearly, making it easier to determine liability and assess any claims under maritime law.

Collect Witness Statements

Witness statements from others who saw the incident can be invaluable in legal contexts. These accounts provide additional perspectives on the accident, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the event. Obtaining such statements can be crucial in establishing the facts, determining liability, and supporting claims in any subsequent legal proceedings.

Follow Company Procedures for Reporting

Adhering to your company’s specific injury reporting protocol is essential for compliance with both company policy and legal obligations. Carefully following these steps ensures that all procedural and legal requirements are met, which is important for any potential claims or investigations related to the injury.

Consult a Houston Maritime Attorney

For serious injuries, it’s wise to seek legal advice. An attorney can guide you on your rights and the best course of action, especially if there’s a potential for a compensation claim.

Correctly reporting a work injury on a fishing boat is a multi-step process that involves immediate action, thorough documentation, adherence to protocols, and potentially seeking legal advice. This process is crucial for your health and safety and any future claims or legal actions.

How Can the Commercial Fishing Accident Lawyers at Johnson Garcia Help?

At Johnson Garcia, our maritime commercial fishing accident lawyers bring over 35 years of experience and a relentless dedication to each case. Known for our willingness to take matters to court when necessary, we stand as staunch supporters of our clients.

We treat each client like family, providing personalized and aggressive legal representation. This approach is rooted in our commitment to securing the best outcomes for those injured in the commercial fishing industry. Our team’s extensive experience and unwavering support make us a formidable ally in legal battles for just compensation.

For expert legal assistance in commercial fishing accident cases, contact Johnson Garcia for a free consultation. Call us at 832-844-6700 or visit our website to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

Houston Commercial Fishing Accident Lawyers