Working as a longshoreman in Houston or Galveston means long hours around heavy machinery, container ships, and nonstop cargo operations. These ports are vital to Texas’ economy—but they are also some of the most dangerous workplaces in the country. If you were injured while working at a terminal, you may be entitled to compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) and other maritime laws.
At Gilman & Allison, LLP, we represent injured longshoremen throughout the Houston Ship Channel and the Port of Galveston, including:
- Houston City Docks / Turning Basin Terminal
- Barbours Cut Container Terminal
- Bayport Container Terminal
- Greens Port Industrial Park
- Jacintoport Terminal
- Galveston Wharves and Cruise Terminals
Our attorneys have maritime backgrounds and decades of experience handling injury claims for longshoremen, dockworkers, and other port employees.
Common Hazards for Longshoremen at Houston & Galveston Terminals
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified longshoring as one of the most hazardous industries. The most common risks at Houston and Galveston terminals include:
- Vehicular accidents – forklifts, hustlers, trucks, and cranes moving containers in tight spaces
- Falls and drowning – from vessel decks, gangways, and wet docks along the channel and waterfront
- Cargo accidents – unsecured containers, swinging loads, or collapsing stacks causing crushing injuries
- Strains and overexertion – repetitive lifting, pulling, or climbing in fast-paced terminal environments
Whether you’re working at the City Docks in Houston or loading vessels in Galveston, these dangers are present every day.
Your Rights Under the LHWCA
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act provides injured longshoremen with critical protections, including:
- Medical care for your injuries
- Compensation for lost wages while you recover
- Vocational rehabilitation if you cannot return to the same work
- Death and survivor benefits for families who lose a loved one
The LHWCA is different from standard state workers’ compensation. It’s a federal law specifically designed for maritime workers on or near navigable waters, like docks, piers, and container terminals.
In some cases, you may also have a third-party claim against a negligent vessel owner, subcontractor, or equipment manufacturer. These claims can significantly increase the recovery available to you.
Why Hire an Experienced Maritime Lawyer
Terminal accidents in Houston and Galveston are not simple workplace cases. They often involve:
- OSHA violations of longshoring safety standards
- Complex LHWCA claim procedures and deadlines
- Third-party liability issues involving vessel owners or equipment companies
- Knowledge of local terminals like the City Docks, Greens Port, and Galveston Wharves
Our lawyers aren’t just courtroom advocates—we also hold U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Officer licenses and have first-hand maritime industry experience. That means we understand your work and the risks you face at Texas ports.
Get Legal Help Today
If you were injured at the Houston City Docks, Barbours Cut, Bayport, Greens Port, Jacintoport, or Galveston terminals, you have rights under federal law. Our firm is ready to help you navigate the LHWCA, pursue third-party claims, and fight for the compensation you and your family deserve.
📞 Call Gilman & Allison, LLP today at (713) 224-6622 (Houston) or (361) 357-8365 (Corpus Christi) for a free consultation. We proudly serve longshoremen and port workers across the Texas Gulf Coast.