What is a Maritime Lawyer?

A maritime attorney can help you pursue financial compensation if you have been injured while working on an oil rig, container ship, or other types of vessels. 

A maritime lawyer, also known as an admiralty lawyer, practices maritime law. Maritime law governs activities on navigable waters, including oceans, seas, rivers, and lakes. When injuries occur on the ships and vessels that operate across these navigable waters, hiring an attorney may be necessary to pursue a lawsuit for financial compensation. 

If you have been injured and are unable to work, the funds from a lawsuit can make all the difference for your family. A lawsuit can provide you with the means to pay your medical bills and your day-to-day expenses such as rent and utilities. 

The attorneys at Pierce Skrabanek are dedicated to you and your case. We are experienced in the complex nature of maritime and admiralty law. We can confidently handle your case from start to finish. Contact the team of maritime attorneys at Pierce Skrabanek online or by calling our team at (832) 690-7000. We are standing by to answer all your questions and to help you begin your case today.

‍

‍

Financial Compensation in Maritime Lawsuits

Financial compensation in maritime lawsuits can cover a range of damages and losses resulting from incidents at sea. The specific compensation will depend on the nature of the maritime incident and the damage incurred. If you have been injured in a maritime accident, a lawsuit may be necessary for you to obtain the financial means to heal completely. 

Maritime law is incredibly complicated. Attorneys who practice it must have strong knowledge of state, federal, and international law. They must also know maritime laws like the Jones Act. The Jones Act is a federal statute in the United States that regulates maritime commerce and shipping. The Jones Act is particularly significant for the maritime industry, and it plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of seamen and maritime workers. 

Financial compensation available in maritime lawsuits may include: 

• Compensation for physical injuries: In cases where individuals suffer injuries due to maritime accidents, financial compensation may cover medical expenses and rehabilitation costs. Injuries from maritime accidents can be serious and the costs of recovery may be high. A lawsuit for financial compensation can help you make sure you have the ability to heal in peace. 
• Lost wages and earning capacity: Maritime workers who cannot work due to injuries sustained at sea may seek compensation for lost wages. In some cases, if the injuries affect the individual's future earning capacity, compensation for diminished earning potential may also be sought. Depending on your position, specific laws may govern the amount of lost wages you can receive. 
• Punitive awards: In cases where the conduct of a party responsible for the incident is found to be particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. When punitive awards are distributed by the court, they are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
• Property damage awards: Damage to vessels, cargo, or other property may result in compensation for repair or replacement costs. This can include damage caused by collisions, accidents, or other maritime incidents.
• Wrongful death awards: If a maritime incident results in the death of an individual, the surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional impact of the loss.

The specific rules and types of compensation can vary based on the applicable maritime laws, international conventions, and the circumstances of the incident. Consulting with an experienced maritime lawyer is crucial to understanding your rights, determining the appropriate forms of compensation, and navigating the legal complexities of maritime lawsuits.

If you find yourself facing legal challenges or seeking compensation in the complex realm of maritime law, reach out to a seasoned maritime attorney for guidance and advocacy. Maritime incidents, whether they involve personal injuries, property damage, or contractual disputes, demand a specialized understanding of the laws governing activities at sea. Contact the experienced maritime attorneys at Pierce Skrabanek online or by calling (832) 690-7000. 

What Does a Maritime Lawyer Do?  

Maritime law governs legal matters and activities that occur on navigable waters, including oceans, seas, rivers, and lakes. Maritime lawyers handle a wide range of issues related to maritime commerce, shipping, navigation, and marine-related activities. Maritime lawyers can be particularly helpful if you have been injured in an accident on the water. Accidents, where a maritime attorney can be helpful may include: 

• Ferry boat accidents 
• Oil rig accidents
• Container ship accidents
• Tugboat accidents

By contacting a maritime attorney, you gain a dedicated advocate who can assess the unique circumstances of your case, provide strategic counsel, and pursue the appropriate legal remedies to ensure your rights are protected. 

Whether you are a seafarer, vessel owner, or an entity involved in maritime commerce, seeking the assistance of a knowledgeable maritime attorney is a prudent step toward navigating the complexities of maritime law and securing a favorable resolution for your case.

Unique Maritime Laws and Recovery Available to Seafarers

There are several unique maritime laws that apply specifically to seafarers, providing them with protections and rights distinct from those afforded to workers in other industries. Under maritime law, seamen are entitled to "maintenance and cure" benefits if they become injured or fall ill while working at sea. “Maintenance” covers daily living expenses, while “cure” covers necessary medical expenses related to the injury or illness.

The Jones Act is a unique maritime law that provides recovery to those working at sea. The Jones Act is a federal statute that provides legal remedies for seamen who are injured or killed while working aboard vessels in navigable waters. It allows injured seamen to bring negligence claims against their employers and seek compensation for damages.

The Jones Act provides legal remedies for seamen, including crew members of vessels, who are injured or killed while working at sea. It allows them to sue their employers for damages resulting from negligence or unseaworthiness of the vessel. 

To qualify for protection under the Jones Act, an individual must meet the legal definition of a "seaman." This typically involves having a substantial connection to a vessel in navigation and spending a significant portion of their work on that vessel. If you have been injured while working at sea, a maritime attorney can evaluate your case and help determine if you qualify for recovery under laws like the Jones Act. 

Contact a Maritime Attorney Today

Hiring a Maritime Attorney is a very important decision. In fact, it may be the most important step in your case. The importance of hiring a maritime lawyer cannot be overstated, particularly in the intricate field of maritime law. Maritime incidents, whether involving personal injuries, vessel collisions, or cargo disputes, often come with significant financial implications. 

An experienced maritime lawyer from Pierce Skrabanek will have a keen understanding of the complexities surrounding maritime regulations, international laws, and industry standards. By having a legal professional who specializes in maritime matters, you can enhance your ability to secure fair and just compensation for losses incurred. This will help maximize the financial compensation in your case. 

Contact the maritime lawyers from Pierce Skrabanek online at (832) 690-7000. Our team of experienced maritime attorneys has won numerous victories for our clients. One such victory is a nearly $17 million dollar Jones Act verdict. Our team is dedicated to you and your case and will work to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. 

‍

Related Resources

If you found this maritime content helpful, please view the related topics below: 

• Houston Maritime Lawyer 
• Oil Rig Injuries
• Dangers of Maritime Work

Contact us if you have specific questions on the matter or if you’d like to schedule a free consultation. 

‍