houston maritime death law firm

Introduction

Readers, maritime tragedies can strike without warning, leaving families and loved ones in a state of shock and despair. If you have unfortunately lost a family member in a maritime accident, know that you are not alone. In Houston, our maritime death law firm stands ready to advocate for your rights and help you seek justice for the loss of your loved one.

We understand that the legal complexities surrounding maritime wrongful death cases can be overwhelming. Our team of experienced attorneys has decades of combined experience in maritime law, and we are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive representation to our clients.

The Legal Landscape of Maritime Death Claims

Admiralty Law and the Jones Act

Maritime death claims fall under the jurisdiction of admiralty law, a specialized body of law that governs maritime activities. The Jones Act is a federal law that provides a remedy for seamen injured or killed in the course of their employment. It imposes strict liability on employers for negligence and unseaworthiness of vessels.

Negligence and Wrongful Death Statutes

In addition to the Jones Act, state wrongful death statutes may provide additional remedies for maritime death victims. These statutes allow family members to seek compensation for damages such as loss of support, medical expenses, and funeral costs.

Common Causes of Maritime Deaths

Maritime Accidents

Maritime accidents can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Vessel collisions
• Groundings
• Explosions
• Fires
• Equipment failures

Negligence and Unseaworthiness

Maritime death claims often involve allegations of negligence or unseaworthiness. Negligence refers to the failure to exercise reasonable care, while unseaworthiness refers to the failure of a vessel or its equipment to meet minimum safety standards.

Proving Liability in Maritime Death Cases

Identifying Responsible Parties

Establishing liability in maritime death cases requires identifying the responsible parties. This may include vessel owners, operators, employers, and manufacturers of defective equipment.

Gathering Evidence

To prove liability, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the accident and gather evidence, including:

• Witness statements
• Accident reports
• Medical records
• Vessel inspections

Damages Available in Maritime Death Claims

Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages aim to compensate victims for their economic and non-economic losses. This can include:

• Loss of income
• Medical expenses
• Funeral costs
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or recklessness, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoers and deter similar conduct in the future.

Choosing a Houston Maritime Death Law Firm

Experience and Expertise

When choosing a Houston maritime death law firm, it is crucial to consider their experience and expertise in this specialized area of law. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling maritime wrongful death cases, and we have a proven track record of success.

Compassion and Understanding

We understand that losing a loved one in a maritime accident is an emotionally devastating experience. Our compassionate team will treat you with empathy and respect throughout the legal process.

Table: Damages Available in Maritime Death Claims

| Category | Damages |
|—|—|—|
| Economic | Loss of income, medical expenses, funeral costs |
| Non-Economic | Pain and suffering, loss of companionship, emotional distress |
| Punitive | Awarded to deter future recklessness or negligence |

Conclusion

Readers, if you have lost a family member in a maritime accident, we urge you to contact our Houston maritime death law firm. Our experienced attorneys will provide you with compassionate and aggressive representation to fight for the justice your loved one deserves.

Visit our website to learn more about our firm and the services we provide. We are here to help you navigate this difficult time and seek the compensation you deserve.

FAQ about Houston Maritime Death Attorney

What is maritime law?

Maritime law is a body of laws and regulations that govern maritime activities, such as shipping, navigation, and offshore oil and gas exploration.

What is a maritime death?

A maritime death is a death that occurs on or over navigable waters, or on a vessel while it is in navigation.

What are the different types of maritime deaths?

There are many different types of maritime deaths, including:

• Drowning
• Falls overboard
• Collisions
• Fires
• Explosions
• Diving accidents
• Medical malpractice

What is a maritime death attorney?

A maritime death attorney is a lawyer who specializes in representing the families of victims of maritime deaths.

What can a maritime death attorney do for me?

A maritime death attorney can help you:

• File a wrongful death claim
• Recover compensation for your losses
• Hold the responsible parties accountable

What are the benefits of hiring a maritime death attorney?

There are many benefits to hiring a maritime death attorney, including:

• Experience and expertise
• Knowledge of the law
• Access to resources
• Personal attention

How much does it cost to hire a maritime death attorney?

Most maritime death attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you do not have to pay any fees upfront. The attorney will only receive a fee if they are able to recover compensation for you.

What is the time limit for filing a maritime death claim?

The time limit for filing a maritime death claim is generally three years from the date of the death. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

What should I do if I have lost a loved one in a maritime accident?

If you have lost a loved one in a maritime accident, you should contact a maritime death attorney as soon as possible. The attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can guide you through the legal process.

How can I prevent a maritime accident?

There are many things you can do to prevent a maritime accident, including:

• Wear a life jacket
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid alcohol and drugs
• Obey all safety regulations