Studies show that the number of offshore worker deaths is being undercounted by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement. This is because many of the offshore worker fatalities in past years did not fit their reporting criteria. 

Working offshore is dangerous and can result in many injuries and even death. Because of this, it is essential that you find a good maritime lawyer to help with your maritime law cases. 

Do you need help finding a maritime accident lawyer in Houston? Keep reading this guide for the top factors to consider when hiring a maritime injury lawyer.

Determine the Type of Legal Claim You Have

To find the best maritime injury lawyer, you first need to determine the type of legal claim that you have. This way, you can see what type of maritime lawyer you need!

For example, you may need a maritime lawyer that specializes in personal injury. Others may need help with maritime law in regards to a breach of contract. 

This will ensure that you have the right type of legal expertise for your specific claim. 

Specializes in Maritime Injury Cases

When you are in an offshore accident, it is different than a typical personal injury case. This is because ships out at sea are ruled by federal laws. On the other hand, personal injury laws can be decided by individual states. 

Often, maritime workers will not qualify for typical compensation from worker’s compensation and other damages. However, there are other ways that they can get help for their offshore injuries. 

Because of this, you must find a lawyer that specializes in maritime injury cases. They will provide you with their expertise in maritime law and will be more likely to help you recover your damages. 

Extensive Knowledge of The Jones Act and Maritime Law

It is also essential that you find a lawyer with extensive knowledge of maritime law, including The Jones Act. The Jones Act is something that protects people that are injured while they are working offshore. 

This is the most common way for people to recover damages from their offshore injury. It is often compared to worker’s compensation for workers at sea, but it requires you to prove negligence. 

Hiring a lawyer with extensive knowledge about The Jones Act will help you prove negligence in your case so you can recover full damages. This includes lost wages, medical expenses, and even non-economic damages. 

Lawyers that do not specialize in maritime law may not have the knowledge necessary to help you win your case. 

Ask About Experience in Maritime Law

Next, you should ask your lawyer about their experience in maritime law. How long have they been practicing in this area? How many clients have they worked with in the past? 

The more experience your maritime lawyer has with this specific type of law, the more likely they will be to win your case. 

For example, experienced lawyers will be more knowledgeable about common issues facing maritime workers. This includes things like heavy workloads, what types of routine maintenance are required, poor shipping schedules, and more. 

This knowledge will help your lawyer prove that these issues are what caused your injuries and will help them prove negligence. 

You should also find a lawyer with extensive courtroom experience. Many maritime lawsuits go to court and will require a trial to reach a fair settlement. You must find a lawyer that will be able to effectively represent you in court!

Consider Case Results

When choosing a lawyer to help with your maritime injury case, you must also consider their case results. You need to make sure your lawyer has been successful with past maritime injury cases!

One way you can do this is by researching their client testimonials and reviews. This will provide you with information about the attorney’s past clients and their experience working together. 

You can also ask your attorney for information on their past cases. Often, attorneys will keep records of their success rate to show their competency and ability to help you win your case. 

Learn About Legal Fees

Finally, you need to learn more about the legal fees your maritime lawyer charges. Different lawyers will have different pricing and other legal fees, so it is important that you find one that fits your budget. 

This is especially important if you are already facing large medical bills, lost wages, and more. 

Often, maritime injury lawyers will work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they will not charge you for their work until you have reached a settlement. Then, they will take a percentage of your case winnings. 

A contingency fee makes it less risky to work with a lawyer and will ensure that they do everything they can to help you win your case. 

Similarly, you should find an attorney that offers a free consultation for prospective clients. When you request a consultation, you can get a free evaluation of your case. This way, you can determine whether or not your case is even worth pursuing. 

Looking for a Maritime Lawyer Jobs? 

When you are injured working at sea, it can be difficult to recover all of your damages. By hiring a maritime lawyer, you will have access to their expert knowledge of maritime law. Considering each of these factors will help you find the right lawyer to work with!

Are you looking for a maritime lawyer in Houston? Heard Merman Accident & Injury Trial Lawyers can help! We specialize in maritime law and can help you get the compensation you deserve. 

Contact us today to learn more about our services and to get a free consultation.