Inland Marine Company Settles Jones Act Case After Tankerman Injured on Vessel

The Incident

Our client, a tankerman working for one of the largest inland marine companies in the US, injured his back when he threw a line from a vessel to a barge in cold weather conditions. Despite reporting his injury, the captain did not report the incident to anyone for three days. Our client was sent to a company doctor who only took X-rays, did not look out for our client’s medical interests, and simply discharged him.

It turned out that our client suffered an L5-S1 herniation in his back which was causing back, hip, and leg pain. While our client had several rounds of injections, he never underwent surgery. 

Because this case involved a seaman being injured on this water, it was classified as a Jones Act case. This is VB Attorneys’ specialty.

Working up the Case and Settlement

VB Attorneys focused on alternate liability theories, such as the company's failure to have a pre-critical task conference, the company's history of line-throwing injuries, and the lack of clear and sufficient cold weather policies. These arguments were enough to convince the company to settle the case for a very favorable outcome for our client.

This case was handled by Brian Beckcom, Brendan Fradkin, Patti Artavia, and Natalie Gomez.

 VB Attorneys: Texas Jones Act Lawyers

Offshore work is inherently dangerous, and accidents can happen at any time. When they do, injured maritime workers deserve to be properly compensated and cared for by their employers.

 At VB Attorneys, our experienced Jones Act lawyers have a proven track record of success in recovering millions of dollars in compensation for injured offshore workers. We know the law and we know how to fight for your rights.

If you or a loved one has been injured working offshore, contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. We will review your case and help you understand your legal options.