We are dedicated to helping those who have been injured or affected by a catastrophic injury. You may contact us 24/7 at (832) 690-7000 for a free, confidential consultation or to schedule an appointment with us.
Maritime work is inherently risky, and sometimes it puts lives in danger. Captains and crews may prioritize deadlines, speedy service, or finances over safety. These factors all contribute to avoidable accidents that frequently lead to serious injuries or, in some tragic cases, fatalities.
We understand the challenges that can arise from a crew boat injury. That’s why we make your struggles our fight. With over three decades of combined experience, we’ve been the reliable allies our clients need. We assist them in overcoming hardship, pain, and suffering by providing legal advice to secure the compensation they rightfully deserve.
If you've sustained injuries on a crew boat, contacting Pierce Skrabanek's experienced attorneys in Houston, TX, may improve your claim's chances. We have the knowledge and commitment to fight for maritime workers’ rights. Reach out online or by phone at (832) 690-7000 for a free consultation to get started.
"Thank you to this law office for its consistent, prompt, and seamless approach to my case. They ensured that I got the appropriate medical treatment for my pain and took care of me in the most fair way possible. They kept me abreast of my case throughout the process. I am grateful, and yes, I would refer them to my family and friends."
- V.G.
Texas ranks third for all domestic maritime industry jobs, contributing over $14.3 billion annually to the Texas economy. Naturally, this means crew boat accidents occur frequently in Texas waters.
Despite the uniqueness of each crew or workboat accident, they generally fall into two main groups. Maritime accidents on crew and workboats can occur in transit or transfer and usually cause accidents when:
Crew boat accidents can disrupt livelihoods, sometimes requiring long-term care or rehabilitation. Common injuries include:
After a crew boat accident, taking immediate action protects your legal rights and supports your claim. As soon as possible, try to:
We can also guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your rights and have the resources to build a strong claim. With decades of experience, Pierce Skrabanek is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of maritime law.
For example, with our help, the Tillmans won the largest maritime verdict in Texas. You can hear from the Tillmans themselves about their harrowing journey to justice:
Recently, we successfully settled a Jones Act case two days prior to the trial.
Our client suffered a head injury on the Hercules 15 Inland Barge. We successfully established the company's liability, leading to the filing and settlement of the case for $14 million on the eve of trial. This is just one example of the impressive settlements our extremely dedicated team has recovered for our clients.
Trust Pierce Skrabanek with your claim. For a free consultation, contact us online or call (832) 690-7000.
The Jones Act is a cornerstone of maritime law. It provides important protections for crew boat workers injured by employer negligence. The act also enables claims directly against employers, offering benefits beyond traditional workers’ compensation. The Jones Act encompasses several key aspects.
Some types of compensation, like workers’ compensation, are generally associated with land-based employees. However, some crew boat accident cases might involve traditional workers’ compensation aspects. Key distinctions and considerations include:
Several federal and Texas laws protect crew boat workers who sustain workplace injuries. These exist to offer compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Different laws grant compensation to injured seamen, allowing maritime workers to pursue justice, regardless of fault. Your attorney can help you file for:
At Pierce Skrabanek, we assess each claim to determine if Texas or federal laws are applicable.
Our firm's success in Jones Act claims helped secure over $30 million in verdicts for clients injured in unsafe working conditions. Call (832) 690-7000 or contact us online to get a free consultation.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, injured crew boat workers might be eligible for damages. Pierce Skrabanek’s Texas crew boat injury attorney can help you pursue all eligible forms of compensation.
Additional types of compensation are available for injured crew members.
Settlement amounts for crew boat accidents vary widely. It largely depends on injury severity, evidence of negligence, and the long-term impact on the victim’s life.
Factors that influence settlement amounts include:
“As a Texas native, I’ve dedicated my career to helping injured workers and securing justice. With over $54 million in verdicts and settlements, my focus remains on advocating for the hardworking individuals who keep our state running.”
– Michael Pierce
According to a Martindale-Nolo study, victims of negligence who seek representation get significantly more compensation than those who try to navigate legal claims alone. Pierce Skrabanek’s attorneys bring the knowledge and resources necessary to pursue maximum compensation for injured maritime workers.
Contact Pierce Skrabanek's Texas workboat accident lawyer at (832) 690-7000 for a free consultation if you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a crew boat accident. Let us provide the guidance, support, and legal knowledge needed to pursue justice and secure the compensation you deserve.
When choosing a crew boat injury attorney, seek someone with extensive experience in maritime law and a strong track record handling Jones Act cases. Familiarity with both federal and Texas maritime regulations is crucial. A Texas crew boat injury law firm should also have a history of securing significant settlements for clients. These qualifications ensure they can effectively advocate for your rights.
A skilled attorney can assist by thoroughly investigating your accident, gathering vital evidence, and managing complex legal procedures. They can negotiate with insurers and represent your best interests in settlement discussions or court. This legal support maximizes your chance for fair compensation. They’ll also provide guidance on navigating the claim process.
Many maritime attorneys operate on a contingency fee, meaning you pay only if they win your case. This fee structure minimizes upfront costs, as fees come from the settlement or award amount. A contingency arrangement also aligns your attorney’s interests with your own, incentivizing them to fight for maximum compensation. Discuss terms before signing.
Consulting an attorney promptly ensures critical evidence is preserved, which can be essential in proving negligence. Maritime law cases have strict timelines, so early action prevents missed filing deadlines. Quick legal action strengthens your claim’s validity and allows your attorney to prepare an effective case. This support can enhance your overall outcome.
We know how tough things can get after an injury. That’s why we make your struggles our fight. With over three decades of combined experience, we’ve been the reliable allies our clients need, tackling financial hardships, physical pain, and major life changes. Our track record of successful verdicts and settlements speaks to our team’s passion and dedication to helping clients get the support and justice they need.
Summary: Served as first chair trial attorney in a lawsuit alleging that a drilling company failed to provide sanitary water to its employees working aboard a drilling rig in the Persian Gulf. The Tillman verdict was the largest maritime verdict in Texas in 2014 and was featured in both Texas Lawyer and VerdictSearch Texas Top Verdicts of 2014.
Summary: Settled a Jones Act case for $14 million two days before trial. Our client suffered a head injury on the Hercules 15 Inland Barge. The Hercules 15 was located in Lake Washington, Louisiana at the time of the incident. Hercules employees tack welded a three foot pipe to the derrick and then forgot to remove it before starting drilling operations. The pipe was jarred loose and hit the plaintiff in the head. The case was filed in Galveston County court in March 2008. The case was set for trial February 2, 2009. Hercules settled the entire case for $14 million on the eve of trial.