San Antonio Maritime Lawyers

If you live in Texas, you probably have acquaintances who are employed as offshore or maritime workers, either in the Gulf of Mexico or another area. You may currently be or have been employed in this industry yourself. Undoubtedly, you are well aware that this line of work is a highly dangerous one, where the risk of serious injury and even death is always present.

For those who have been injured on the job, however, compensation is available. The maritime law firm of Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P. has a staff of personal injury lawyers in San Antonio, TX who have years of experience with maintenance and cure, Jones Act claims, and related matters.

Maritime Workplaces: The Dangers

Life out at sea can be rough—harsh weather, toxic chemicals, slippery walking surfaces, and heavy equipment all pose significant threats to one’s health and well-being. Offshore accidents can lead to major bodily harm. Common medical complications relating to maritime personal injury include the following:

• Back & spine injuries
• Burns
• Hypothermia
• Frostbite
• Compartment Syndrome
• Amputation
• Pleural (lung) disorders
• Brain damage

Fortunately, injured seamen are normally entitled to financial compensation as a matter of general maritime law—but you need trained admiralty lawyers on your team to ensure the best results.

Maintenance and Cure

The basic form of compensation is maintenance and cure. This consists of payments intended to provide the seamen with rudimentary living expenses (maintenance) and recompense for medical expenses incurred due to their injury (cure). In many cases, the injured party qualifies for further compensation as well.

Years of Experience with Maritime Law

Maritime law consists of a patchwork of legislation that can confuse people who do not have significant legal experience. Our maritime accident lawyers handle all aspects of relevant personal injury law.