Jones Act – Page 15 – Offshore Injury Lawyer – Maritime Attorneys – Houston Maritime LawyersOffshore Injury Attorneys

Dec 28, 2013

Common Types of Offshore Injuries

Offshore work is physically demanding and workers must be in good condition in order to work in this field. Offshore workers are required to work in a number of adverse weather conditions and in many different situations, many of which can be dangerous.

Unfortunately, injuries in this line of work are all too common. Some injuries are serious and others can be life threatening. Some injuries could recur under certain circumstances. If you have been injured, consider speaking to an experienced lawyer, such as a Port Arthur maritime injury attorney.

The most common types of offshore injuries are back injuries, injuries to the head, burns, limb injuries, crush injuries, fractures, and electrical shock. Other injuries can be fatal and of course there is also a high risk of drowning. Keep in mind that you are protected with rights to allow you to seek compensation for medical expenses that have occurred as the result of an offshore injury.

Some injuries may heal rather quickly while others can take a long time. Some injuries may never fully heal. For example, a serious back injury may require surgery and you may not be able to perform the same type of job in the future. When an injury occurs, it is important to speak to a Port Arthur maritime injury attorney as soon as possible after it happens. This will help the attorney better gather the information needed for your case.

Keep in mind that you are entitled to be compensated for medical costs and other expenses that have been incurred due to the injury. If you can’t work for a period of time, a Port Arthur maritime injury attorney can help you receive money that is necessary for you and your family to live. While these types of jobs are dangerous, rest assured that if you do suffer an injury while on the job you’ll be able to seek money until you can return to work.

Dec 26, 2013

Maritime Lawyer: Suspect Charged in Boating Accident

JoJo John, the accused in the case of a fatal boating accident on the Hudson River this past July, was formally charged in court on Thursday, November 7^th. His boat hit a barge, and two people, a young woman about to be married and her fiancé’s best man, were killed on impact.

Although most drunk driving accidents are associated with cars, the prosecution in the case is emphasizing John’s high blood alcohol content as the chief factor in this case. They maintain that he was unable to properly operate his craft under the influence of that much alcohol and was responsible for the collision that caused two deaths and left three others seriously injured.

The defense claims that the collision was an accident and that it was in part caused by the barge not being well-lit enough to be seen at that late hour.

Although the trial will be ongoing, it is clear that the incident was an utter tragedy. The families of the bride, groom, and best man have all been devastated during what should have been a very happy time for them. The suddenness of the incident and the fact that few people anticipate such a serious accident while boating has only made things harder for them.

Unfortunately, tragedies like these happen all too often, and catch grieving loved ones completely by surprise. If you or someone you love boats frequently or has already been involved in an injurious boating accident, you should seek legal counsel from people specializing in this area. The best solution is to hire a team of maritime lawyers. If you want the best team, call Kirkendall Dwyer LLP. The lawyers there are well-versed in maritime law and want to help you get the closure and recompense you deserve for your maritime mishap.

Dec 25, 2013

Philippine Embassy Questions Gulf of Mexico Safety Conditions

Early November marked the tragic death of a Filipino offshore worker in the Gulf of Mexico, the fourth such death this year. With that many fatal accidents in so short a time, the embassy is understandably concerned about safety issues on offshore oil platforms in the area.

The embassy has called on the U.S. to examine policies and on the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement to conduct an investigation into whether all safety measures are being properly implemented by all companies. While the embassy is representing Filipino workers in particular, they are urging that safer conditions be put into effect for all workers.

Three other Filipino workers died almost a year ago in an explosion on a different Gulf oil platform that also injured eleven other workers. Investigations in that case showed that it was the company’s fault and that the conditions on the platform were unsafe, so it is very reasonable for the embassy to be concerned in this case as well. Employers of offshore workers need to be held responsible for creating conditions that are as safe as possible. While some risks are simply part of offshore work, there are many policies and procedures that can be used to keep workers safe.

If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in offshore work and you believe it is due to company negligence, you should immediately hire an offshore injury lawyer. Kirkendall Dwyer LLP offshore injury lawyers are standing by to take your case. Don’t hesitate to hold companies responsible for services they should be providing. By calling such practices to the attention of the law, you don’t only help yourself or your injured loved one, but also other offshore workers who will subsequently get improved safety conditions.

Dec 23, 2013

Rights of an Injured Offshore Worker

Offshore workers have very hazardous jobs. Injuries are all too common among these workers and unfortunately, when a accident does occur, it often has serious results. If you are an injured offshore worker you need to understand that you do have rights. The first step for victims of injuries is to speak to an offshore injury attorney. This is a lawyer who specializes in these types of accidents.

Sometimes an injured offshore worker may be afraid to take legal action because of fear. However, it is important to know that maritime laws and particularly the Jones Act, protects seamen by ensuring they maintain their rights. One of the most important rights as an injured offshore worker is the right to an attorney. Contact an offshore injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident happens.

Once an offshore injury attorney has been contacted you can rest assured that the lawyer will begin working on your case by gathering information and reviewing doctor reports. If an accident occurs you can be sure that the company will immediately begin taking action by utilizing the company investigators and legal team. You need to take steps to protect your rights so you are protected every step of the way.

If you have suffered an injury, your main concern is likely your current and future health. It is essential that you seek the medical treatments necessary to ensure this happens. Your attorney will help to make sure that you receive all the medical benefits that you are entitled to. You’ll also probably be concerned about the inability to work while you’re recovering from the injury. If the accident or injury was the result of negligence on the part of another, your lawyer may help you seek additional damages to include such things as lost wages, and money for pain and suffering.

Dec 21, 2013

Numerous Accidents Reported after Typhoon

As expected, the Philippine Coast Guard has been receiving many reports of maritime accidents since the typhoon hit. The typhoon is considered to be one of the most powerful storms ever known to man so it is no wonder that many ships were impacted as a result. High winds create huge waves which can cause even some of the most seaworthy vessels to become damaged or disabled.

Unfortunately, when a ship goes down at sea there are often no survivors. This is especially true when there is a major storm in the area. A small lifeboat or life preservers or vests are no match for the powerful waves and wind that the typhoon produced.

Thus far, 13 maritime accidents have been reported to the coast guard. However, many more are likely expected. If entire ships went down with no survivors, it could take weeks or longer to learn of the accident. One of the worst accidents reported so far is the Andrea Princess, a cargo ship. It was taking shelter as best it could in Ando Island when the typhoon hit. The rough seas caused it to drift and eventually run aground. Of the crew members aboard, 2 have died, 5 are missing, and 15 have been saved.

The full extent of the disaster has not yet been realized. Many ships sunk, and many more drifted until they came to shore. Piles of debris including many ships must be gone through. It is likely that there were many maritime fatalities that are not yet known. While the typhoon was a natural disaster, many maritime accidents are the result of negligence. A Texas City personal injury attorney has experience dealing with all types of maritime accidents and injuries.

If you have been injured due to the negligence of another, you may be entitled to compensation. Speak to a Texas City personal injury attorney to learn what you should do after an accident occurs. Your attorney will answer any questions you may have and guide you through the legal process. It’s best to call a Texas City personal injury attorney as soon after the injury occurs as possible.

Dec 19, 2013

Types of Maritme Accidents

There are many types of maritime accidents. Of these, the most dangerous, and the type with the most potential for injuries or death, is a collision at sea. There are a number of different ways a collision can take place. All of them present hazardous conditions for those aboard the vessels. Serious accidents, with injuries, can occur quickly. A victim of such an accident will want to discuss it with an experienced maritime injury lawyer.

Bow-On: This type of collision occurs when two ships collide front to front. It can be compared to a head-on collision in a vehicle. In many cases, the bow-on accident may be caused by an inability to brake or slow the vessel. Maritime rules call for vessels that are approaching each other in this manner to pass to the starboard, so both ships avoid a collision course. Failure to take action is almost always attributed to human error.

Stern Collisions: This type of accident happens when one vessel hits another near the rear. This can cause extensive damage. Stern collisions are most likely to happen when passing another vessel. Maritime rules provide that a vessel that is being passed should stay out of the way of the other vessel. It is possible to run into the other vessel, which is commonly caused by crew members who are not paying attention.

Side Collisions: A side collision is similar to a T-bone accident in a vehicle. One vessel crashes into the side of another vessel. Sometimes an accident of this type could be caused by adverse weather conditions such as strong winds or waves that make it difficult to gain control of the vessel.

Allison Accidents: These are accidents that occur when a moving vessel runs into a stationary object. A common Allison accident may happen when a vessel hits a bridge or seawall. In cases such as this, the moving vessel is presumed to be at fault. These accidents, while often close to shore, can be dangerous to both crew members and passengers. Talk to a maritime injury lawyer to learn what steps to take if you have been injured.

Maritime accidents can be hazardous and can result in injuries or death. If you or a loved one has been injured in this type of accident, contact a maritime injury lawyer as soon as possible.