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Most fishing boats are commercial vehicles subject to many different laws than a private vessel being used for pleasure. Getting financial compensation for commercial injury cases is also treated differently. If a seaman wishes to seek compensation from a negligent party, they must seek out law firms with the know-how to handle these offshore injuries.
Suppose you’re a fisherman in Galveston and have recently found yourself on the unfortunate end of an injury (neck and back injury, brain injury, etc.) on one of these company-run vessels, and your employer is playing games. In that case, you’re in the right place. At Ehline Law firm, we’ve got the Best Galveston, Texas, Fisherman’s Injury Claim Attorneys ready to help you around the clock, led by none other than Michael Ehline, Esq.
Ultimately, nothing is more important to us than ensuring the wellbeing and rights of Galveston’s hardworking fishermen. The safety and justice of suffering employees is non-negotiable. Our best offshore injury lawyer is ready to help with cases anywhere in the Gulf of Mexico. Tell us your story. Call (833) LETS-SUE from anywhere in the nation to learn more.
Our dedicated team of Galveston and Houston personal injury attorneys is on standby 24/7 to help victims evaluate and navigate the often complicated landscape of injury claims. Our best offshore injury attorney has the resources to win any case in the country, or the world for that matter. We are ready to ensure seamen recover the compensation and passenger or seaman rightfully deserve for their suffering.
Why Choose Ehline Law Firm for a Personal Injury?
- No-win-no-fee: We operate on a contingency basis through settlement, litigation, and trial. This means that you do not owe us a single penny if we do not win your case. We have obtained millions for other crew and passengers over our storied history. Whether it’s negotiated in or outside a courtroom, we can meet any deadline and help you win, too!
- Free consultation: Each case begins with a free, no-obligation consultation where we assess your claim of harm and guide you on the best course of action.
- 24/7 availability: Our dedication to customers extends beyond the usual business hours. We’re ready to represent you at any given time – efficiently when people need us the most. Taking care of your initial stress this way will help you think clearer as we work hard to pursue the negligent ship owners, etc.
Our Team’s Maritime Law Track Record
We’re incredibly proud of our team’s dedication and tireless efforts in assisting our clients. Under the exceptional leadership of Michael Ehline, Esq., Ehline Law Firm has consistently delivered favorable results. Let’s look at some of our key accomplishments:
Case Type Verdict/Settlement
- Offshore Injury $1.2 Million
- Boating Accident $700,000
- Fishing Incident $600,000
We will interview the boat driver or captain and prepare your case for a jury trial, always standing ready to obtain the best results for our clients, leading the way! At Ehline Law firm, our principal intention is not just winning cases but ensuring our clients’ holistic well-being. We take pride in committing to the utmost personal care and legal aid, helping victims find their feet again after unexpected and often traumatic incidents.
What are the Known Galveston, TX Offshore Fisherman’s Claim Accident, Injury, and Death Statistics?
The fishing industry in Galveston is a critical part of the regional economy, but it is not without its risks. Fishermen work in some of the most hazardous conditions imaginable, and as a result, the risks for serious injuries and fatalities are much higher than in most other professions.
- In one recent year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the fishing industry had a fatality rate of 77.4 per 100,000 full-time workers, the highest of any occupation.
- These fatalities often result from vessel disasters, falls overboard, and onboard injuries.
- With its robust commercial fishing industry, Galveston sees a significant number of these accidents and injuries each year.
Given these statistics, it’s evident why the services of capable and committed attorneys, such as the team at Ehline Law Firm, are indispensable to you. Michael Ehline, Esq. and his team approach each case with rigorous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to aggressively pursuing the best possible outcomes for injury victims. If you cannot call us, you can also email us here.
Why are Fisherman’s Claims Challenging?
Claims associated with fishermen’s injuries are often complex due to several factors. There are specific laws and maritime regulations designed to protect fishermen, and these rules may differ significantly from typical personal injury laws. Fishermen’s claims can involve a variety of legal frameworks, such as the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and general maritime law. Handling these claims requires an in-depth understanding of these laws, as well as the intricacies of the fishing industry itself.
Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act?
The Act covers workers injured on or near waterways, including employees involved in building, repairing, loading, or unloading sea vessels. This federal law provides coverage for disability or death benefits to workers engaged in maritime employment, including those involved in the longshore, ship repair, and shipbuilding industries.
This is especially critical in cases involving accidents or illness from hazardous conditions or chemical exposures in the workplace. Unlike traditional workers’ compensation laws, the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act gives workers a higher degree of protection and coverage, which recognizes the unique risks associated with maritime work.
The commitment of Ehline Law Firm towards securing justice for Texas harbor workers is uncompromising. We believe that every harbor worker has the right to seek justice and receive compensation for injuries sustained on the job or due to hazardous conditions under the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act. It’s not just about the legal aspect but also about ensuring the well-being of hardworking individuals who serve the maritime industry.
The Importance of Immediate Legal Assistance
California and Texas-based Ehline Law Firm is always ready, 24/7, to assist fishermen and their families in the wake of a serious injury or fatality and Galveston and Houston personal injury lawyers. The aftermath of such personal injury cases can be overwhelming and distressing.
The legal complexities related to offshore injuries should not add to your burden in these trying times. This is why seeking the help of experts in this type of personal injury case without delay remains key. By functioning as your legal advocates, our team conducts thorough investigations, aggressively negotiates with insurance companies, and, if necessary, rigorously pursues your case in court, all intending to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Common Types of Injuries Faced by Fishermen
Obviously, wrongful death is a common result of offshore injuries, especially on outer continental shelf lands. As a fisherman, you are no stranger to the harsh and unpredictable events and other accidents brought by the sea. We understand that numerous severe health risks stem from your daily job. Our contingency fee attorneys are here to support you and your surviving family during the hard times.
The dangers of your line of work are apparent. Your injury lawyers need to understand the different types of injuries that can occur to handle a potential injury claim better. We can handle nearly any type of maritime case, so this should explain everything. When you speak with us, you will immediately realize that this is not something anyone can handle without guys like us on their side.
We have dealt blows to the unreasonable excuses made supporting the abysmal commercial fishing safety record in Galveston. Dollars are essential when we think about personal injury law settlements. But our goal isn’t just big settlements. It also prevents more lawsuits by making the industry get its act together.
The most common sea injury cases are as follows:
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slips and falls are never trivial when they occur on a fishing boat. Wave-induced movements, wet and slippery decks, and cluttered workspaces significantly increase the risk of such accidents. Prolonged exposure to these work conditions can lead to injuries including, but not limited to, broken bones, lacerations, head injuries, and potentially life-threatening conditions if a person falls overboard.
Fishing Gear Injuries
Fishing gear is vital for any fishing vessel but carries potential danger. Fishermen regularly handle sharp hooks, knives, and other cutting tools, often in perilous conditions, which can lead to severe cut wounds, impalements, or even loss of limbs. Moreover, heavy fishing gear and machinery may also cause crushing injuries.
Inadequate Safety and Training
Safety should never be compromised regardless of the urgency of the catch or the pressure of an encroaching storm. Insufficient safety measures and inadequate crew training can result in anything from minor to severe injuries and, sometimes, tragically, loss of life. The impact of these accidents can have long-term repercussions, making significant ripples in both the personal and professional aspects of a fisherman’s life.
Exposure to Harmful Elements
The ocean itself can be an unforgiving workplace. Prolonged exposure to sun, wind, cold, and wet, combined with strenuous physical labor, can result in health issues like hyperthermia, hypothermia, and skin conditions. Furthermore, contact with potentially harmful marine species or contaminated water can lead to infections or illness.
As you navigate through these potential dangers, be assured that Michael Ehline, Esq. and the team at Ehline Law Firm stand ready 24/7 to guide and support victims of offshore fishermen’s accidents. It’s not just about winning a claim — it’s about helping you find the best possible way forward after an unfortunate event.
Recovering Damages for Medical Expenses and Lost Wages
Navigating the complex process of recovering damages following a fisherman’s injury can be daunting. Bringing a negligence claim is not as easy as getting one for a traffic accident on land. The pain from being hurt by heavy machinery or other incidents is often incapacitating. You may face increasing medical bills, lost income due to time off work, and additional unforeseen costs. That’s where we step in at Ehline Law Firm with Michael Ehline, Esq. We aim to ease that burden for you by helping you locate and manage medical care for accidents caused at sea, not just those on a cruise ship.
We have offices in the Galveston and Houston areas and are ready to help you achieve unprecedented results and ensure your bosses are held accountable. If you or a loved one got hurt in navigable waters, call us today at (833) LETS-SUE.
Calculating Medical Expenses
Medical expenses are a prime factor in fisherman’s injury claim cases. They include everything from the initial emergency treatment expenditure to subsequent surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and long-term care. But, calculating these can be challenging. As your attorneys, we meticulously assess all your medical costs related to the injury, ensuring that even future medical expenses are factored into your claim.
Reclaiming Lost Wages
A severe injury can rob you of your capacity to work, rendering a serious financial blow.
Loss of income or earning capacity is another major factor. Time missed from work for recovery, or a decreased ability to earn due to long-lasting impacts of the injury, is considered while calculating your potential settlement. We help to accurately account for these lost wages and assist you in securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
No stone is left unturned while working towards the goal of maximizing your compensation, allowing you to focus on what really matters – your recovery.
Unexpected Costs
Besides these evident expenses, unexpected costs come up, such as costs to adapt to a disability, changes in housing needs, or even professional mental health support. We strive to include these often overlooked costs in your final settlement, providing a holistic approach to your compensation calculation.
At Ehline Law Firm, we understand the importance of thoroughness in these matters. When you trust us with your case, we commit to working diligently to ensure you get the compensation you deserve so that you can focus on your recovery without financial worry.
Maximizing Compensation for Fisherman’s Injury Claims
Securing maximum compensation for a fisherman’s injury claim isn’t straightforward. It demands a thorough understanding of maritime laws, robust negotiation skills, and an unwavering commitment to the victim’s best interests. At Ehline Law Firm, Michael Ehline and his team of diligent attorneys are here 24/7 to guide you through this challenging course.
Your Legal Rights and Compensation in a Fisherman’s Injury Claim
First and foremost, as an injured party, you’re entitled to specific rights under various federal maritime laws and regulations. These rights establish the basis for asserting your injury claim and seeking compensation. But, simultaneously, you must remember that every case is unique, and the available compensatory measures may vary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Fisherman’s Injury Claims
Being a victim of a fishing accident is challenging. Filing for compensation for your injuries and losses can be even more difficult, especially if you are unfamiliar with the legalities involved. It’s easy to make mistakes – but some errors could limit the compensation you receive or even lead to your claim being denied altogether. Let’s explore common mistakes you should avoid in fisherman’s injury claims.
Failure to Report the Accident Immediately
After an accident, your priority is to seek medical help. However, it’s crucial that you also report the accident to your superior, crew, or vessel owner as soon as possible. The failure to promptly report the accident can cause complications in your claim, as it may raise questions about the validity and timing of your injury.
Not Seeking Immediate and Continual Medical Treatment
Every injury, no matter how minor it seems initially, could become a serious problem if not addressed promptly. Suppose you fail to seek immediate medical attention or maintain continuous injury treatment. In that case, the insurance providers may argue that your injuries are not as serious as you claim. So, it’s vital to get medical treatment immediately after an accident and follow your doctor’s instructions throughout your recovery process.
The Importance of Timely Action in Fisherman’s Injury Claims
When filing a fisherman’s injury claim, time is of the essence. Unlike a typical automobile accident where someone is rear-ended, offshore oil workers and fishermen do not always have emergency rooms close. The problem is the speed at which you act could significantly impact the success of your claim. Of course, this will affect the amount of the resulting potential compensation.
For example, an ambulance can be called in a car accident, and you can be driven to the ER. You could be off outer continental shelf lands in a boating incident or working on oil rigs. So, unlike the auto accident, you will probably rely on escort ships or a Coast Guard helicopter at best to treat any damages suffered.
But getting emergency care for workers injured at sea could end up in a wrongful death before they get to a hospital for their first initial consultation, let alone emergency surgery. If not, the surviving spouse will be left with a tangled web of paperwork, mental anguish, and confusing regulations. Entailing these considerations, let’s explore the import and process of a timely claim against the responsible parties or property owners. Ehline Law firm offers a free consultation at no charge so that you can discuss your potential case with a tier-one lawyer in Galveston.
If we form an attorney-client relationship, Ehline will handle the matter on a contingency fee basis, which means no win, no fee to you. We will use our superior experience, knowledge, and skill to ensure our clients receive the best service and the largest verdict or settlement.
Statute of Limitations: The Vital Timeline
A statute of limitations is a legal concept that sets a fixed period within which an injured party can file a claim. In the case of Galveston, Texas, that timeline typically extends up to two years from the date of the injury. It is crucial to understand that failure to file within this timeframe often means losing the right to claim any compensation.
Collecting Evidence and Documenting the Case
A robust collection of evidence is the key to a successful fisherman’s injury claim. This will likely include medical reports, photographs, co-worker testimonials, and equipment maintenance records, among other things. Remember, evidence can degrade, disappear, or get lost over time, making instant action to preserve it necessary. An attorney can aid you in documenting these particulars properly to substantiate your claim efficiently.
The Role of Timely Medical Treatments
A vital aspect that courts consider when assessing injury claims is the medical documentation of the injury. Immediate medical treatment following an accident safeguards your health and establishes a clear link between the accident and the injury. Repeated medical visits strengthen your claim by providing a detailed recollection of how the injury impacted your life, health, and work. Hence, seeking timely and persistent medical attention is significant for your case.
In conclusion, act quickly if you’ve been injured in an accident. You have a brief window to secure the evidence and file your claim. Engaging an experienced attorney as soon as possible could significantly enhance your chances of a successful claim and maximal compensation.
Going for a Quick Settlement
Often, insurance companies offer accident victims a quick, upfront settlement. While settling your claim swiftly and moving on might seem attractive, doing so can lead to you receiving less compensation than what you’re entitled to. Your injuries may require prolonged treatment, and a fast settlement may not cover those future medical expenses. So, consult with a maritime lawyer before settling your claim.
Handling Claims Without Legal Representation
Seeking compensation for your injuries without legal representation is like sailing in a storm without a compass. Navigating the complex legal waters of marine injury law requires specialized knowledge and experience. An attorney experienced in fisherman’s injury claims can negotiate with insurance companies, guide you through legal processes, and maximize your compensation. At Ehline Law Firm, with Michael Ehline, Esq. at the helm, we are ready 24/7 to guide you away from these pitfalls on your journey to compensation.
Get a Free Consultation from Galveston Offshore Fishermen Injury Lawyers Today!
Where deaths or serious injuries are concerned, no one is better equipped to lead this battle than Michael Ehline. Michael is more than a maritime accident lawyer; he is a warrior who genuinely understands and empathizes with the hardships faced by his clients and their surviving children. His stellar track record in winning settlement and trial verdicts for clients is a testament to his dedication, skill, and sheer determination in offshore accidents and others.
We can help you file your lawsuit or help you win your appeal with a focus on getting you the money you need to survive instead of suffer more. Seek the justice you deserve for your offshore injury claim. Reach out to our tier-one Galveston and Houston personal injury lawyers today and let Ehline Law support the people working on boats by dialing (833) LETS-SUE. “Phone us today so we can make them pay!”
Citations:
- Texas Trial Lawyers Association
