Oil Tanker Accident Lawyers

Oil tankers are huge ships that carry oil across the world’s oceans. There are two main kinds: crude tankers, which transport raw oil to refineries, and product tankers, smaller ships that carry refined oil to different places where it’s sold.

Handling these tankers can be risky. For example, when a big tanker can’t fit into a small port, its oil has to be moved to a smaller ship in a tricky and dangerous process called lightering. Workers have to be careful moving between ships on rough seas, which can lead to serious accidents like falls or being hit by moving objects.

In Texas, especially near Houston, people working on ships and docks often face dangers. They’re at risk of things like explosions, harmful substances, and getting injured by heavy equipment. Accidents happen fairly often in this line of work. This makes it really important for workers to know about safety and have access to legal help if they get hurt.

Thankfully, federal law protects these workers, allowing them and their families to claim compensation for injuries caused by negligence. If you or a family member has been injured in such circumstances, Johnson Garcia is here to help. Our team of Houston maritime lawyers is committed to being fierce advocates and allies for our clients, helping them to receive the justice and support they deserve.

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

The Laws Governing Oil Tanker Workers

For oil tanker workers, several key laws provide essential protections. The Jones Act, a fundamental piece of maritime law, allows seamen injured due to employer negligence to seek compensation. This Act is significant because it extends beyond general workers’ compensation, offering a route to sue for damages such as pain and suffering, which are not typically covered under standard workers’ comp.

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) also plays a vital role. It covers dockworkers and others employed in maritime occupations on navigable waters. This Act provides for medical care, rehabilitation services, and financial compensation for lost wages and injuries.

These laws reflect a deep understanding of the unique hazards faced by maritime workers. For clients, knowing these laws exist is empowering. They provide a legal framework to pursue rightful compensation, acknowledging the high-risk nature of their profession.

Common Causes of Oil Tanker Accidents

When we talk about accidents on oil tankers, a few common reasons usually come up, including:

Human Error. Simple mistakes in navigation or safety protocol can escalate into major issues.
Equipment Failure. Even with regular maintenance, complex machinery on tankers can malfunction.
Bad Weather. Rough seas and changing weather conditions increase the risk of accidents.
Poor Communication. Delays or misunderstandings in communication can cause serious problems.

These are just the main causes, but they highlight why working on oil tankers needs constant vigilance and strict adherence to safety practices.

Having a seasoned maritime legal team on your side in these situations is more than just helpful; it’s often a necessity. When an accident happens, pinpointing the cause and who’s accountable can get complicated fast. A legal team with experience in maritime law knows the ins and outs of these unique cases.

At Johnson Garcia, we can navigate the complexities of determining responsibility, whether it’s human error, equipment failure, or something else. Plus, we’ll do everything within our power to get the right compensation for damages and injuries so you can move forward with your life.

We understand the laws and regulations in play and how to effectively argue for your rights and recovery. Let us be your advocates in a system that can be tough to tackle alone, enforcing accountability and ensuring that justice is served.

Common Injuries from Oil Tanker Accidents

Oil tanker accidents can lead to a range of injuries, some of which can be quite severe. Understanding these common injuries is important, not just for workers but for anyone involved in these incidents. Here’s a look at some of the most frequent injuries and their implications:

Burns and Explosions. Due to the flammable nature of the cargo, burns from fires or explosions are a real risk. These can range from minor to life-threatening and often require extensive medical treatment.
Slip and Falls. On a ship, slippery surfaces are common, especially with oil and seawater around. Falls can lead to anything from bruises and sprains to more serious injuries like fractures or head trauma.
Toxic Exposure. Handling or being near oil and chemicals can lead to exposure to toxic substances, potentially causing long-term health issues like respiratory problems or skin conditions.
Crushing Injuries. In the busy and sometimes chaotic environment of a tanker, there’s a risk of being caught between heavy equipment or objects, leading to crushing injuries, which can be extremely serious.
Drowning and Near-Drowning Incidents. Accidents can lead to crew members falling overboard, leading to drowning or near-drowning situations, which can have lasting physical and psychological effects.
Hearing Loss. Constant exposure to loud machinery and equipment noise on tankers can lead to gradual hearing loss, a significant issue that can impact quality of life.
Traumatic Brain Injuries. These are among the most serious consequences of oil tanker accidents. They can occur due to falls, blows to the head, or even explosions. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, potentially leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
Paralysis. This devastating injury can result from severe spinal cord damage during an accident. Paralysis may lead to a loss of mobility or sensation, partially (paraplegia) or fully (quadriplegia), significantly altering a person’s life and requiring lifelong medical care and assistance.
Wrongful Death. Unfortunately, in the most tragic cases, oil tanker accidents can result in fatalities. When accidents lead to the loss of life, the legal implications extend to the surviving family members, who may seek compensation for their immense loss and suffering.

Each of these injuries affects not only the physical health of workers but also their mental well-being and financial stability. Recovery can be long and costly, involving medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation.

That oil tanker accidents can cause a wide variety of injuries, each with its own challenges and implications, is no small matter. Safety measures and the need for proper legal representation in the event of an accident cannot be overlooked.

At Johnson Garcia, we understand the severity and impact of these injuries. Our legal expertise in maritime law means we are well-equipped to handle cases involving oil tanker accidents. We are committed to supporting our clients through these challenging times, striving to secure the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.

Determining Liability in Oil Tanker Accidents

Figuring out who’s responsible for oil tanker accidents involves more than just piecing together what happened. It’s a complex task, tangled in a mix of international and local laws, safety protocols, and often, multiple parties. This complexity can make it hard to pinpoint who’s at fault.

Determining liability often means investigating a range of parties. The tanker’s crew may be scrutinized for operational errors or negligence. The owning company could be investigated for possible lapses in safety measures or insufficient training. Equipment manufacturers might be under the lens for any mechanical failures. Additionally, port authorities can also be accountable for mishandling operations. Each entity plays a crucial role in the safe functioning of oil tankers, making thorough investigation key to identifying responsible parties.

At Johnson Garcia, our maritime lawyers are equipped not just with legal knowledge but with the expertise and commitment necessary for these challenging cases. We’re dedicated to ensuring justice and securing the compensation and support you deserve.

Compensation for Oil Tanker Accidents

When it comes to oil tanker accidents, the impact of injuries and damages can be both immediate and long-lasting. Understanding the types of compensation available is crucial for those affected. Here’s a breakdown of what compensation can cover:

Medical Expenses. This includes emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, and any immediate medical care required due to the accident.
Lost Wages. If the injury prevents you from working, compensation can cover the wages you’ve lost during your recovery period.
Rehabilitation Costs. Short-term rehabilitation services to aid in your initial recovery are also covered.
Ongoing Medical Treatment. Some injuries require prolonged or even lifelong medical care, which can be covered by compensation.
Long-Term Disability. If the injury leads to a long-term or permanent disability, compensation can help cover the costs of adjustments needed for your new living situation.
Loss of Earning Capacity. If your ability to work in the same capacity as before the accident is compromised, you can be compensated for this loss.
Pain and Suffering. This includes compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the injuries sustained in the accident.

At Johnson Garcia, we diligently work to take into account all aspects of your injury and its impacts, in both the short-term and long-term. Our goal is not just to address the immediate needs but also to secure a future that accounts for the ongoing effects of the accident on your life.

What To Do if You’ve Been Injured in an Oil Tanker Accident

If you’ve been injured in an oil tanker accident, first and foremost, seek immediate medical attention to address any injuries, even those that might not be immediately apparent. Document your injuries and keep all medical records, as these will be crucial for any legal actions.

Make sure to report the accident to your supervisor or the relevant authorities on the tanker. Then, as soon as possible, consult with a maritime lawyer experienced in oil tanker accidents. A legal expert like those at Johnson Garcia can provide guidance on your rights, help navigate the complexities of maritime law, and work towards securing the compensation you deserve.

Why Our Maritime Lawyers Are Essential

The primary reason our maritime lawyers are indispensable is their ability to secure a just and favorable outcome for you. This isn’t just about having legal knowledge — it’s about how we apply it to your unique situation. Here’s how we make it happen:

Deep Dive into Maritime Law

Our lawyers aren’t just familiar with maritime law; they’re experts in it. This means understanding not just the basics but also the nuances and lesser-known aspects that can make a big difference in a case.

Thorough Investigation

We don’t take things at face value. Our team conducts comprehensive investigations, delving into every possible angle of the accident. This might include examining ship logs, scrutinizing maintenance records, and cross-checking crew statements.

Identifying All Liable Parties

In many tanker accidents, there’s more than one party at fault. Our experience allows us to identify all potentially liable parties — whether it’s the crew, the company, equipment manufacturers, or port authorities.

Crafting a Strong Legal Strategy

Every case is unique, and so is our approach. We tailor our legal strategy to fit the specifics of your situation, ensuring that we present the strongest possible argument on your behalf.

Negotiating with Stakeholders

Dealing with insurance companies and other stakeholders is often a complex part of the legal process. We handle these negotiations with skill and tenacity, always aiming to get the best possible outcome for you.

Contact Johnson Garcia Today

Have you been involved in an accident aboard an oil tanker? Let the experienced maritime lawyers at Johnson Garcia review your case.

Contact us today for a free consultation, or call us at 832-844-6700 to help you navigate your maritime legal challenges.

Oil Tanker Accident Lawyers