Introduction
Corpus Christi, Texas, is a thriving commercial port situated on the Gulf Coast. As one of the busiest ports in the state, it sees a significant amount of marine traffic every day from large commercial vessels, oil rigs, and recreational boats. With that being said, accidents do happen, and they can range from minor to severe, resulting in injury and even death. As a seafarer or someone who spends a lot of time on the water, it’s essential to have the right representation should any accident occur. That’s where a maritime accident attorney in Corpus Christi comes in to help.
What Is a Maritime Accident Attorney?
A maritime accident attorney is a legal professional who specializes in representing sailors, seamen, longshoremen, and other maritime workers who have been involved in maritime accidents. They are well-versed in the complex and highly-regulated laws that govern maritime activities and know how to navigate the legal process to ensure their clients receive the compensation they are entitled to after an accident.
Why You Need a Maritime Accident Attorney
Maritime accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. They can be caused by equipment failure, human error, unsafe work conditions, or the negligence of another worker. If you’re involved in a maritime accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages. However, the process of getting compensation can be complicated, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the maritime laws and regulations that apply to your situation. That’s where a maritime accident attorney comes in. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
What Do Maritime Accident Attorneys Do?
Maritime accident attorneys provide a range of legal services to their clients, including:
Maritime accident attorneys can also assist their clients with filing claims under different laws that apply to maritime accidents, including the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
The Jones Act
The Jones Act is a federal law that provides seamen with the right to sue their employers for negligence if they are injured or killed while working on a vessel. To qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, an employee must spend at least 30% of their time working aboard a vessel in navigable waters. The Jones Act also provides seamen with compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages resulting from the accident.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) provides compensation to injured maritime workers who are not covered by the Jones Act, such as longshoremen and dock workers. The LHWCA provides coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the injury.
Conclusion
It’s always best to be prepared for any eventuality, no matter how unlikely it may seem. As a seafarer or someone who spends a lot of time on the water, it’s essential to have the right representation should any accident occur. A maritime accident attorney in Corpus Christi can help you navigate the complex and highly-regulated laws that govern maritime activities and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve after an accident. Whether you’re a sailor, seaman, longshoreman, or other maritime worker, it’s essential to know your legal rights and have the right representation by your side. So, if you’re involved in a maritime accident, don’t hesitate to contact a maritime accident attorney in Corpus Christi today.