A Track Record of Success in Tug & Barge Accident Cases
Our Texas barge accident lawyers at Arnold & Itkin have won more than $20 billion in verdicts and settlements, much of it on behalf of maritime and offshore workers. We've been a leading authority in admiralty law for years, winning money for workers and their families in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon explosion, the sinking of the El Faro, and countless other maritime accidents. Our work on behalf of barge accident victims has been widely reported.
Our victories in tugboat and barge accident cases include:
- $25.8 million settlement for workers injured in a barge explosion off the Texas Gulf Coast.
- $14 million settlement for tugboat workers severely injured in an explosion.
- $14 million Jones Act settlement for a seaman injured on an inland barge.
- $11.8 million settlement for the family of a barge worker killed in an offshore explosion.
- $6.5 million for a barge worker who was seriously injured by a faulty winch.
"I always knew they had our best interests at heart, that they cared about us."
- Stacy Artigue, widow of barge accident victim
Barge Accident Cases We Handle
The complexities of maritime laws and the varying jurisdictions involved make these incidents exceptionally challenging. That's why choosing a knowledgeable barge accident lawyer is crucial. Our team's in-depth understanding of maritime law assists clients in identifying responsible parties and securing rightful compensation.
The types of barge accidents we've investigated include:
- Jack-Up Barges: Also known as jack-up rigs, these platforms drill oil in shallow waters.
- Cargo Barges: These barges can carry dry bulk or liquid cargo. Liquid cargo barges often carry oil.
Tugboat and barge workers are protected by the Jones Act and federal maritime regulations, which guarantee seamen the right to seaworthy vessels.
Each barge accident is unique, often involving elements such as mechanical failure, operational negligence, and environmental challenges. Procedural nuances in maritime claims require diligent investigation and precise representation. Our commitment is to stand as advocates for the rights of injured seamen, ensuring that no detail is overlooked in pursuit of justice and compensation.
Common Causes of Tugboat Accidents
Tugboats allow various goods to be transported to shore. Unfortunately, seamen on tugboats are especially vulnerable to accidents. The nature of the modern tugboat, which combines maximum horsepower, stability, and high fuel capacity, leaves many opportunities for tripping, falling, and serious accidents with towlines and winches. Some of the most serious accidents occur when crew members transfer between the barge and the tugboat.
Tugboat accidents may occur when tugboats collide with docks, the shore, sandbars, or other obstacles in the water. Other accidents take place as crews make the difficult transition from barge tow to the dock or back to the tug. Some tug accidents may take place due to slippery conditions on deck from bad weather conditions or hydraulic leaks.
Some of the most serious injuries on board a tug come from the tow lines and winches. The very strength of these lines and winches is exactly what makes them so dangerous if they sweep the deck. In addition, frayed or weak lines can part, resulting in a dangerous situation when the barge detaches. For centuries, seamen have suffered back injuries from working with these lines. In modern times, there are lightweight, high-strength lines that can protect workers; unfortunately, many modern maritime companies refuse to pay for them.
Another source of tugboat and barge accidents is inadequate staff. When maritime companies don't fully staff their vessels, it can lead to overwork and fatigue, conditions that increase the risk of injury. Inadequate staff also means the vessel will be undermanned in the case of an emergency, and seamen will be unable to respond as quickly as possible.
Environmental factors also play a significant role in tugboat accidents. Variable sea conditions, inclement weather, and poor visibility increase the inherent risks involved in maritime navigation and operations. Furthermore, neglecting routine maintenance and ignoring safety protocols exacerbate potential hazards, leading to heightened accident rates.
Employers must implement rigorous safety practices and continuous training for crew members, and vessel owners must ensure tugboats are properly maintained.
Local Regulations & Houston Maritime Law
Understanding the local regulations specific to Houston and Texas is crucial when handling barge accident claims. Houston, being a major port city, follows stringent maritime laws that align closely with federal mandates but are tailored for local nuances. Texas has a history of upholding strong protections for maritime workers, ensuring their safety and right to seek compensation is prioritized. Firms well-versed in these laws, like Arnold & Itkin, can navigate these complex legal matters more effectively, advocating fiercely for the rights of injured workers.
Houston's maritime industry is vast, encompassing oil drilling, shipping, and cargo transport. Each sector has its own set of regulatory standards that maritime operators must adhere to. This includes regular inspections of vessels, adherence to safety codes, and mandatory training protocols for crews. Our lawyers keep abreast of these regulations and any changes that may affect our clients' claims, providing a competent, reliable representation for those seeking justice in complex barge accident matters.
Why Choose a Houston-Based Barge Accident Lawyer?
Selecting a Houston-based barge accident lawyer offers unique advantages, particularly in understanding the nuanced landscape of local maritime operations. Local lawyers are not only familiar with the regional courts and jurisdictions but also possess a comprehensive knowledge of Houston's maritime industry dynamics. This local insight is invaluable in building a robust legal strategy that effectively addresses the client's needs.
Arnold & Itkin offers precisely this localized advantage. Our presence in Houston and intimate understanding of the community's needs empower us to represent clients with unmatched commitment and personalized care. We treat each client like family, a testament to our deep-rooted belief in delivering justice efficiently and empathetically.
2020 Barge Explosion in the Corpus Christi Ship Channel
Early in the morning on August 21, 2020, a dredging vessel owned by Orion Marine Group struck a submerged pipeline in the Corpus Christi Ship Channel. The resulting explosion and fire sunk the dredge and spread to a nearby grain elevator, injuring eight workers. Another four crew members were reported missing; two of their bodies were found the following day, after which point the Coast Guard suspended rescue efforts. The final two workers’ bodies were found when a portion of the dredging vessel, the Waymon L Boyd, was recovered from the middle of the ship channel.
2019 Barge Accident in Houston Ship Channel
On May 10, 2019, two barges collided in the Houston Ship Channel with an outgoing ship. One of the barges capsized, and the other leaked thousands of barrels of refined gasoline product into the channel. Both barges were carrying 25,000 barrels of reformate, a highly flammable substance often mixed with gasoline to create a high-octane commercial product. It is fatal if ingested and highly toxic to marine life.
The 2017 Bouchard Barge Explosion
In October 2017, Bouchard Transportation Co. Barge No. 255 was off the coast of Port Aransas when oil vapors collecting over time ignited. The explosion killed two deckhands, one of whom has never been recovered. Witnesses reported that the barge explosion was actually made of multiple explosions.
A Coast Guard investigation later discovered the company had a history of silencing, terminating, or threatening employees who tried to report serious hazards aboard their barges. Though captains had stop-work authority, using it often led to them getting fired. The results of the investigation found that multiple barges had exhibited the same problems Barge No. 255 did, including the hazardous gathering of oil vapors.
An NTSB investigation found Bouchard responsible for the hazards aboard their vessels.
Can I Sue for a Barge or Tugboat Injury?
Like any other maritime worker, barge and tugboat crews are protected under maritime law. There are numerous laws under which you may sue your employer or vessel owner, including the Jones Act. Our tugboat and barge accident lawyers are well-known Jones Act litigators; our familiarity with the law and what it takes to succeed has allowed us to get record-setting verdicts and settlements for our clients.
Understanding your rights as a maritime worker is essential. While the Jones Act provides specific protections, other regulations such as the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act may also apply depending on the nature of employment and injury. Comprehensive legal guidance is crucial in determining the most applicable course of action.
We've investigated causes of injury on barges and tugboats such as:
- Equipment failure
- Crew negligence
- Tow winch
- Falling overboard
- Handling heavy lines
- Parted tow lines
Your claim will depend on a few factors, such as the extent of your injuries, where you were injured, and whether or not you're able to return to work eventually. Whatever the circumstances of your injury, it's important that you speak with a Houston barge accident lawyer as soon as possible. We offer free consultations to explain your rights and options.
Your Rights as a Barge Worker in Houston
Tug and barge workers in Houston are protected under a variety of maritime laws, including the Jones Act and the LHWCA. These laws provide rights such as the ability to seek compensation for injuries sustained on the job due to negligence. It’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable barge injury lawyer in Houston who can guide you through the legal process and help ensure your rights are upheld. Arnold & Itkin offers thorough legal representation, helping injured workers navigate local and federal regulations to secure the compensation they justly deserve.
The timeframe to file a claim for a barge accident is generally governed by the statute of limitations, which typically affords up to three years from the date of injury. However, specific circumstances, such as the nature and location of the accident, can influence this. For a precise understanding of your claim’s timeline, consulting a Houston barge accident attorney promptly is advised. Early legal intervention can preserve crucial evidence and strengthen your position.
Next Steps After a Tugboat or Barge Accident
If injured in a barge or tugboat accident, prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical attention. Report the incident to your supervisor ensuring all details are recorded accurately. Document the scene with photos and gather witness contacts if possible. Once stabilized, consult with a Houston barge accident lawyer to discuss your situation and explore your options for filing a legal claim. Legal professionals at Arnold & Itkin are equipped to provide comprehensive support and guide you through each step toward seeking compensation.
Speak with Our Texas Tugboat & Barge Injury Lawyers: (888) 493-1629
Our lawyers have spent our careers helping people get their lives back. We've won hundreds of results of $1 million or more, dozens of results of $10 million or more, and countless other results to do one thing: give injured or grieving people a second chance. When you've been injured through no fault of your own, the person who is at fault should pay for it. It's simple, straightforward justice. In the end, companies will do the right thing only if we make them.
If you're wondering what you're going to do next, how you'll afford your medical care, how you'll pay for basic needs without being able to work, we have answers. More than that, we have a solution that could help you get everything you need to provide for your family and move forward. Call us for a free consultation.
Call (888) 493-1629 or contact us online! Our Barge injury attorneys in Houston are standing by to help.
Our firm proudly serves clients nationwide, including throughout Texas and the entire Gulf Coast, such as Brownsville, Pasadena, McAllen, Edinburg, Mission, Weslaco, Rio Grande City, Hidalgo, Port Lavaca, Roma, and beyond.
