Port Houston Maritime
Accident Attorney

Common Port Houston accidents include container drops and shifts, crane malfunctions, forklift collisions, slip and falls on wet docks, cargo crushing injuries, vessel collisions during docking, mooring line snapbacks, and exposure to hazardous cargo. The port's high volume of container and bulk cargo operations creates constant injury risks.

It depends on your job duties. If you spend 30% or more of your time on vessels, you're likely covered by the Jones Act and can sue for negligence. If you work primarily on the docks loading/unloading vessels, you're covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). LHWCA provides benefits without proving fault but limits your recovery compared to Jones Act claims.

Port Houston injury settlements range from $75,000 for minor injuries to over $2 million for catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. Factors include injury severity, lost wages, medical costs, employer negligence, and whether you qualify under the Jones Act (which allows pain and suffering damages) or LHWCA (which does not).

Yes. Even if you're receiving LHWCA benefits, you can sue negligent third parties like equipment manufacturers, vessel owners (if you're not their employee), stevedoring companies, or contractors. Third-party lawsuits allow full recovery including pain and suffering, which LHWCA doesn't cover.

Report the injury to your supervisor immediately and get a written incident report. Seek medical attention and tell the doctor exactly how the injury occurred. Photograph the accident scene if possible. Get contact information from witnesses. Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies. Contact a maritime attorney before signing any documents.