Understanding Maritime Law in Texas
Maritime law—also known as admiralty law—governs incidents, injuries, and commercial disputes that occur on navigable waters. At Gilman & Allison, LLP, our attorneys handle everything from offshore injuries and vessel collisions to charter agreements, cargo claims, and port-commerce disputes. Whether you work offshore or operate a business tied to the Gulf, these laws affect your livelihood.
Who Is Protected Under the Jones Act?
The Jones Act protects seamen who spend most of their work time aboard a vessel in navigation. If you’re injured due to unsafe conditions, improper equipment, or negligence from your employer or crewmates, you may be entitled to:
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Medical care and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering damages
- “Maintenance and cure” benefits (daily living allowance + medical expenses)
Even tugboat crews, dredge operators, and barge hands can qualify—so it’s critical to speak with a maritime attorney familiar with Gulf operations.
What If I’m Not a Seaman — Do I Still Have Rights?
Yes. If you’re a longshoreman, harbor worker, crane operator, or dockside mechanic, you’re likely covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). This law protects maritime employees who load, unload, build, or repair vessels.
In some cases, you may also have a 905(b) claim against a negligent vessel owner if unsafe operations caused your injury. Our firm routinely handles longshoreman and terminal injury claims at Bayport, Barbours Cut, Galveston, Corpus Christi, and Texas City.
What Are Common Maritime Injuries Along the Texas Coast?
- Slips, trips, and falls on wet decks or docks
- Crane and cargo-handling accidents
- Explosions, fires, and chemical exposures
- Equipment failures and electrical hazards
- Back, shoulder, and head trauma from lifting or falling objects
These incidents often result from poor vessel maintenance, lack of training, or ignored safety regulations. Early legal representation ensures critical evidence—like logbooks, maintenance records, and witness statements—is preserved.
How Do Maritime Commerce Disputes Arise?
Maritime commerce drives billions through the Houston Ship Channel, Galveston Bay, and Corpus Christi terminals each year. But disputes frequently arise over:
- Charter party agreements
- Cargo contamination or delay
- Breach of vessel repair contracts
- Maritime liens and arrest actions
- Insurance and indemnity obligations
Our attorneys represent shipowners, suppliers, and logistics companies in complex federal and state maritime disputes—balancing the nuances of U.S. maritime law and Texas commerce codes.
What Should I Do After a Maritime Accident?
- Report the incident immediately to your employer or supervisor.
- Get medical attention from a qualified physician (not just the company doctor).
- Document everything—take photos, note witness names, and save communications.
- Do not sign or give statements until you’ve consulted a maritime lawyer.
Time limits for filing maritime injury and property claims are strict. Contacting a Houston or Corpus Christi maritime attorney early helps protect your rights and ensure your claim is properly filed.
Why Choose Gilman & Allison, LLP?
- Decades of maritime trial experience in both injury and commercial litigation.
- Attorneys with U.S. Merchant Marine Officer’s Licenses and hands-on sea experience.
- Offices serving Houston, Galveston, Pearland, and Corpus Christi.
- No-fee consultations for injured seamen, longshoremen, and maritime workers.
When your future depends on knowledge of the sea, you need lawyers who’ve been there.
Contact Our Texas Maritime Law Team
If you’ve been injured offshore, hurt at a port, or involved in a maritime dispute, reach out today for a free consultation.
📞 Houston: (713) 224-6622
📞 Corpus Christi: (361) 357-8365
Gilman & Allison, LLP — Texas Maritime Attorneys. Protecting Injured Workers and Businesses Across the Gulf Coast.
