Every day, thousands of longshoremen, stevedores, and port workers keep the Houston Ship Channel and Galveston ports moving. But behind the cranes, containers, and cargo holds lies one of the most dangerous work environments in Texas. When an accident happens on the docks or piers, knowing your rights under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) can make all the difference in your recovery.
At Gilman & Allison, LLP, our maritime attorneys—many of whom hold U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner credentials—have spent decades representing injured longshoremen throughout the Houston–Galveston corridor. We understand how these cases differ from standard workers’ compensation or personal-injury claims and how to pursue the full compensation you deserve.
1. Common Causes of Longshoreman Injuries
Port operations are complex, fast-paced, and filled with hazards. Some of the most common injury sources include:
- Falling cargo or equipment due to improper loading or defective rigging
- Forklift and crane accidents caused by operator error or mechanical failure
- Slip-and-fall incidents on oily decks, docks, or gangways
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals or fumes in confined spaces
- Struck-by injuries from containers, trucks, or vessel movement
Even with OSHA and Coast Guard regulations, accidents still occur when employers cut corners or fail to provide safe working conditions.
2. How the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) Protects You
The LHWCA provides federal benefits to maritime employees injured while working on or near navigable waters—such as docks, wharves, terminals, and shipyards. Covered workers can receive:
- Medical care for all work-related injuries
- Wage-replacement benefits during recovery
- Vocational rehabilitation if unable to return to prior work
- Survivor benefits for families of fatal workplace accidents
Unlike traditional workers’ compensation, longshore claims are handled under federal law, and disputes often go before administrative law judges or the Benefits Review Board. Having a legal team that understands both maritime and federal procedure is critical.
3. Third-Party Claims Under 33 U.S.C. § 905(b)
In some cases, a longshoreman may also have a third-party negligence claim against a vessel owner, equipment manufacturer, or contractor. Section 905(b) of the LHWCA allows injured workers to seek additional damages if the vessel’s negligence contributed to the accident—such as failing to warn of hazards or maintain safe equipment.
These hybrid claims often involve complex legal questions about control, duty, and vessel operations. Our attorneys routinely litigate 905(b) cases before the Southern District of Texas and understand how to maximize recovery through combined statutory and tort remedies.
4. Why Choose Gilman & Allison, LLP
- Maritime Focus: Decades of experience in admiralty and port-related law
- Local Knowledge: Deep understanding of Houston Ship Channel and Galveston port operations
- Proven Results: Millions recovered for longshoremen, seamen, and harbor workers
- Personal Attention: Every case handled by attorneys who know maritime life firsthand
Our firm’s main office is in Pearland/Houston, with additional representation across the Gulf Coast, including Galveston, Corpus Christi, and Port Arthur. We’re committed to helping longshore families recover—financially and physically—after serious workplace injuries.
5. Contact Our Houston & Galveston Longshore Injury Lawyers Today
If you were hurt while loading, unloading, or repairing a vessel in the Houston or Galveston area, don’t navigate the LHWCA process alone. Gilman & Allison, LLP is here to help.
📞 Call (713) 224-6622 or visit www.gilmanallison.com for a free case evaluation.
You pay nothing unless we win.
