Hurt while working at sea? Leatherwood Law protects injured seamen
under federal maritime law.
Life at sea is dangerous. Whether you work on a cargo ship,
tanker, tugboat, or offshore vessel, seamen face constant
risks—heavy equipment, rough weather, long hours, and unsafe
conditions. When injuries happen, you’re not covered by
traditional workers' comp. You’re protected under the **Jones
Act** and **general maritime law**.
At Leatherwood Law, we fight for injured seamen across the Gulf
Coast. From Port of Houston to Galveston and offshore rigs, we
help you recover medical care, lost wages, and full compensation
when your employer’s negligence caused your injury.
If your vessel was unseaworthy or your employer failed to provide
a safe working environment, you have a right to sue under the
Jones Act. Don’t rely on the company’s doctor or insurance
adjuster—we’re here to advocate for you.
We represent deckhands, engineers, mates, stewards, rig workers,
and other crewmembers injured on navigable waters or offshore.
You’ve served at sea. Now let us serve you.
Focused on Maritime Injury: We know how to
prove unseaworthiness, employer negligence, and vessel hazards.
Gulf Coast Representation: From Houston to the
Gulf, we fight for injured maritime workers and their families.
Results-Driven: You don’t pay us unless we win
or settle your case.
Respected Advocacy: We dig deep into vessel
logs, maintenance records, crew statements, and employer
conduct.
What to Do If You’re Injured as a Seaman
Report the injury – Notify your supervisor or
captain and get it documented.
Get medical help – Seek treatment onboard or
evacuate if necessary. Keep all records.
Don’t sign anything – Don’t let your employer
pressure you into signing statements or accepting a quick
payout.
Call Leatherwood Law – We’ll review your case
and help you take the right legal steps.
Seaman Injury FAQs
How do I know if I am a seaman under the Jones Act?
Seaman status usually requires meaningful work time on a vessel in navigation and work that supports the vessel’s mission. The facts of your actual duties and vessel connection matter more than your job title.
How long do I have to file a seaman injury claim?
Most maritime personal injury and death actions must be filed within three years. Early action preserves vessel logs, maintenance records, and witness testimony.
What is maintenance and cure and who qualifies?
Maintenance and cure is a seaman’s right to medical treatment and basic living expenses during recovery. It generally applies when the injury occurred in service of the vessel.
What damages can I recover in a Jones Act case?
Damages can include medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering linked to employer negligence. Depending on the facts, additional maritime claims can expand recovery.
What should I do after a seaman injury near Houston?
Report the injury and get medical care immediately. Then document conditions and witnesses and avoid signing statements until you confirm your Jones Act status and rights.
Is a seaman injury claim the same as workers compensation?
No, Jones Act and maritime rights are separate from state workers compensation systems. Seamen often have different remedies that can allow broader damages when negligence is involved.
Talk to a Houston Seaman Injury Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured while working at sea, don’t face your
employer alone. Contact Leatherwood Law for a free consultation.
We’ll help you understand your rights under the Jones Act and
maritime law—and fight for the compensation you need to recover.
