If you’re a longshoreman injured while working at a Texas port — whether in Houston, Corpus Christi, or anywhere along the Gulf Coast — you may be entitled to benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). Knowing what to do immediately after the injury can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
At Gilman & Allison, LLP, we fight for longshoremen injured on docks, terminals, and shipyards across Texas. Here’s what you need to know after a workplace accident.
🚨 Step 1: Report the Injury Immediately
You must report your injury to your employer within 30 days to preserve your LHWCA claim. Failing to report on time could jeopardize your right to benefits.
Tip: Give written notice (Form LS-201) and keep a copy for your records.
🏥 Step 2: Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Even if your injury seems minor, get checked out by a doctor. Under LHWCA, you have the right to choose your own physician — not just the company doctor.
Delayed medical treatment can hurt both your health and your case.
📝 Step 3: Document Everything
Keep detailed records of:
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The incident and how it happened
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Witness names and contact info
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Medical visits and treatment plans
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Missed workdays and lost wages
Pro tip: Take photos of the accident scene and your injuries, if possible.
⚖️ Step 4: File a Claim Under the LHWCA
Filing a claim (Form LS-203) with the U.S. Department of Labor is critical. You generally have one year from the date of injury to file.
A successful LHWCA claim may entitle you to:
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Medical treatment at no cost
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Temporary or permanent disability benefits
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Vocational rehabilitation
👨⚖️ Step 5: Contact an Experienced Longshore Injury Attorney
Longshore claims can be complicated — especially when employers or insurers dispute the extent of your injuries. At Gilman & Allison, we represent injured longshoremen throughout:
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Houston (📞 (713) 224-6622)
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Corpus Christi (📞 (361) 357-8365)
We’ll help file your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for full compensation if your case goes to trial.
📍 Serving Texas Ports from Houston to Corpus Christi
Our attorneys understand the maritime industry inside and out — because we’ve worked in it. We’ve helped longshoremen recover millions in settlements and verdicts after life-changing injuries at:
- Barbours Cut Terminal
- Port of Houston
- Port of Corpus Christi
- Texas City docks
- Galveston and Freeport terminals
💼 Call Gilman & Allison, LLP Today
If you were injured while loading, unloading, repairing, or working near a vessel on navigable waters, don’t wait. Protect your health and your future.
📞 Houston Office: (713) 224-6622
📞 Corpus Christi Office: (361) 357-8365
🌐 www.gilmanallison.com
Free consultations. No fees unless we win.