Laredo Personal Injury Lawyers

Laredo Accident Law Firm Helping Individuals & Families in Webb County

Arnold & Itkin is here to help people throughout all of Texas who are recovering from horrific incidents. Throughout the years, our Laredo personal injury law firm has helped hundreds of individuals and families demand justice, recovering billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements along the way. We are renowned for our ability to get results in personal injury and wrongful death cases of all kinds, including complex cases such as aviation and airplane accidents, plant explosions, maritime accidents, and more. We have built a reputation for being able to help catastrophic injury victims recover the compensation they need to rebuild and recover. This includes cases involving amputations, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), burns, spinal cord injuries, and more.

If you are looking to file a lawsuit and need legal assistance you can trust, turn to our Laredo accident law firm as soon as possible. Call (888) 493-1629 to schedule a free consultation.

What Does Hiring an Injury Lawyer Cost?

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Laredo Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Billions Won by Catastrophic Injury Lawyers in Laredo, TX

Catastrophic injuries come from the word catastrophe, which means “when everything changes.” These types of injuries are not defined by the pain or the damage they cause, but by how much they ruin lives. Catastrophic injuries are medically defined as any injury that permanently impairs a person’s mobility or cognition. Spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, amputation, and other life-altering injuries are considered catastrophic because they fundamentally impair a person’s ability to be independent. Loss of independence leads to increased costs, leading (ultimately) to lifelong hardship.

However, having a catastrophic injury does not necessarily mean you'll be consigned to a life of hardship. The Laredo catastrophic injury attorneys atArnold & Itkin have won billions of dollars for our clients to rebuild their lives. If you or a loved one have suffered catastrophic injuries because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. Catastrophic injuries cost millions in medical expenses, future care, and lost opportunities. Seeking monetary compensation can help you cover future medical costs and other losses, letting you recover in peace.

Common Types of Catastrophic Injuries

  • Burn Injuries – Severe burns come with lasting physical and emotional difficulties.
  • Blunt Force Trauma – This injury occurs when an object hits a part of the body. These injuries often have the most effect when they happen to the head, triggering a traumatic brain injury.
  • Vision Loss & Other Eye Injuries – This is one of the most common workplace injuries, and it causes trauma to the eyes — resulting in permanent vision loss.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries – These injuries can result in pain, loss of mobility, and even paralysis.
  • Acoustic Trauma— This is when someone losses their ability to hear, which changes the way they interact with the world.
  • Neck & Back Injuries – These are the number one source of pain reported in America.
  • Neurological Injuries – These injuries can result in loss of reasoning abilities and cognitive function — although it is not always obvious.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries - Like a neurological injury, a brain injury has the potential to change a person's ability to function both physically and cognitively. While they can improve with time, severe brain injuries often mean a person will require a lifetime of care.

Contact Our Laredo Catastrophic Injury Attorneys: (888) 493-1629

Arnold & Itkin has taken on some of the largest and most complex cases in recent history. Our firm represented a mother who lost all mobility below her neck in an ambulance accident. For the sake of the children, our firm poured our resources into getting her family everything they need to secure their future. We were able to recover $117 million on behalf of our client—the largest single-person injury verdict in Louisiana’s history. Because she received the highest quality medical care available, she is now able to speak and spend time with her children.

Why choose our Laredo catastrophic injury lawyers?

  • Billions of dollars recovered on behalf of our clients
  • Secured the largest single-person injury verdict in Louisiana history
  • Success is your recovery — you only pay if we win

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Laredo Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys

Helping People Injured in Car Accidents in Laredo & Across Texas

Injured in a motor vehicle accident? If so, it’s important to receive compassionate, effective representation to look out for your best interests. Despite all the promises that they make, insurance companies all too often fail their policyholders—refusing to give them the help that they need. If you are being refused assistance and need help holding them accountable, our law firm is here for you. We work with Laredo vehicle accident survivors to fight for fair compensation, and we are ready to help you too. Just call to schedule your free consultation.

Our Laredo car accident lawyers can help if you have been injured in an accident such as the following:

  • Ambulance accidents
  • Car accidents
  • Bus accidents
  • Boat accidents
  • Motorcycle accidents
  • Truck accidents

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Laredo Trucking Accident Lawyers

Choose Laredo Truck Accident Attorneys with Billions Recovered

Of the 253 million vehicles on the road in the United States, roughly 5 percent are classified as "commercial vehicles." An even smaller percentage are large trucks—vehicles that are between 10,000 and 80,000 pounds. And yet these large trucks cause 11% of vehicle fatalities every year. Our Laredo truck accident firm has represented hundreds of victims of trucking accidents. Many of them suffered from catastrophic injuries like severe burns, paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death. In order to help our clients get back to a normal life, we held trucking companies responsible—securing a record number of seven-figure results or higher over the last decade.

We want to do the same for you. If you've been hurt in a truck accident, Arnold & Itkin wants to hear your story and help you rebuild your life. Let us help you get medical care, provide for your family, and more.

The Trucking Industry's Big Problem

Trucking is one of the deadliest industries in the United States. Of the thousands of vehicle fatalities involving a large truck, 700+ of those fatalities are the truck drivers themselves. Why do large trucks cause so many deadly vehicle accidents? The largest issue is the way the industry incentivizes truckers to push themselves past the point of exhaustion just to make ends meet. Carriers often hire and train drivers who have no prior trucking experience and pay them by the mile—meaning they're not paid for all of the vital non-driving work every trucker has to do.

Pay-by-mile forces drivers to drive as long and as fast as they can, creating a culture of "hard-driving" that rewards anything that gets around federal trucking regulations. Many new drivers quickly learn to keep two logbooks so that their hours of service always appear to be compliant with federal law—meanwhile, they push far longer than the 14-hour daily limit.

Tired drivers means deadly drivers: the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration found that 13 percent of truck crashes are caused directly by fatigue, while 25% of crashes happened when a driver was hauling for longer than 17 hours.

UPS & FedEx Truck Accident Lawyers

UPS and FedEx, who together command 50 percent of the freight industry in the United States, have seen an increase in the number of crashes and fatalities. From 2015 to 2017, UPS saw its number of crashes increase by 38 percent to 2,003 collisions, causing 49 deaths. FedEx' numbers were even more dire: in the past two years, their number of crashes and fatalities have more than doubled.

See for yourself—find out how often trucking companies get into accidents on the FMCSA website.

Get a Free Consultation with Laredo Trucking Lawyers

Arnold & Itkin has a simple mission: help the victims of life-changing accidents rebuild their lives and get back to normal. Our Laredo trucking attorneys do that by investigating commercial truck accidents to determine who was at fault. Unlike insurance companies, we don't pin the blame on drivers' behavior. Instead, we investigate company practices and maintenance schedules (among other things) to ensure that the accident's true cause is made clear.

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Laredo Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Billions Won by Motorcycle Crash Lawyers in Laredo, TX

Without a car’s structural protection, a motorcyclist involved in a crash is more likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries. Motorcycle fatalities occur 28 times more frequently than vehicle fatalities. In 2016, there were over 5,200 motorcyclists killed on the road—a 5 percent increase from the previous year, according to the NHTSA. A motorcycle accident can change a person’s life. After a tragic accident, a motorcyclist can be left in physical and emotional anguish, permanently disabled, and with an overwhelming amount of medical debt.

If you or a loved one have sustained injuries in a preventable motorcycle accident, you shouldn’t have to pay for the consequence of another person’s negligence. Attorneys at Arnold & Itkin have helped hundreds of accident victims recover the compensation they deserve for their pain, winning billions of dollars to rebuild their lives. Our Laredo motorcycle accident lawyers can help you receive the best possible results for your case, helping you afford medical care, pay for your basic needs, and provide for yourself long-term.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Laredo, TX

Motorcycles are small, travel between lanes, and move quickly—which is why many people believe that motorcyclists cause most motorcycle crashes. However, it's car drivers who fail to obey traffic laws or are distracted while driving, causing serious accidents. Negligent car drivers often fail to see motorcycles, which results in a catastrophic accident. A common incident that occurs is when drivers swerve into a lane abruptly and fail to check for motorcyclists.

The following are common causes of motorcycle collisions:

  • Driver Blind Spots    
    It is essential for drivers to check their blind spots during lane changes. If drivers don’t take this extra precaution, it is likely that they will fail to see a motorcycle passing by. This is an example of how exercising reasonable care can prevent serious and potentially tragic accidents.
  • Dangerous Roadways    
    Hazardous roads are also a common cause of motorcycle accidents. Poorly maintained roads may be an inconvenience for vehicles, but they can be deadly for motorcyclists. Road hazards like potholes, uneven pavement, and roads with little visibility can cause a motorcyclist to swerve and lose control. When this is the cause of an accident, the responsible government entity for maintaining roads safe would be at fault.
  • Defective Equipment    
    Faulty equipment is another common cause of motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle parts that were built with poor quality materials or were improperly manufactured can also cause accidents. Defective parts, for example, can make the motorcycle “wobble” at high speeds or fail entirely at high speeds.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

  • Brain injuries
  • Spine injuries
  • Road rash
  • Fractures
  • Loss of limb
  • Paralysis

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Laredo Bus Accident Attorneys

Billions Won by Bus Accident Lawyers in Laredo, TX

Bus accidents lack the necessary protection that most vehicles have, which makes passengers more vulnerable in the event of an accident. About 11,000 to 15,000 bus accident injuries occur every year, according to the Department of Transportation. The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that an average of 300 bus accident fatalities occur every year.

Suffering injuries in a truck accident is devastating, especially if the accident could have been prevented. If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a bus accident, you have the right to seek financial compensation. Contact the Laredo bus accident attorneys at Arnold & Itkin LLP as soon as possible to get started on your recovery. Our firm has won billions in verdicts and settlements, including hundreds of results of $1 million or more. The sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the sooner you may get what you need to move forward.

The Dangers of Public Transportation & Bus Accidents

Passengers typically sustain severe injuries in bus accidents. Unfortunately, investigations have demonstrated that most accidents could have been prevented if bus companies would have implemented proper safety protocols or equipment.

Accident factors usually include the following:

  • Inadequately-trained drivers
  • Bus drivers under the influence
  • Improperly maintained buses
  • Negligent bus drivers
  • Lack of safety restraints

Maintenance issues also contribute to bus accidents. Some operators cut corners and ignore regular maintenance to reduce costs. This is a significant oversight because maintenance and repairs are safety issue that prevent tragic accidents. Failing to maintain buses leads to tragic accidents.

Why Bus Accident Injuries Are Common in Texas

Buses are commonly used to transport the public and students. Nearly 25 million children ride a school bus nationwide, and an average of 20 students are killed every year in school bus accidents. Private bus companies made 604 million passenger trips in North American in 2014 alone, the majority of them for tourism.

Highlighting the Issue with a 2007 Atlanta Bus Crash

The U.S. Senate approved bus safety legislation that added more safety requirements to bus companies. This bill was introduced after a tragic Atlanta bus accident in 2007. This accident occurred when the driver accidentally drove the vehicle onto an exit ramp and crashed through the barrier wall, causing the bus to fall onto the highway underneath. As a result, seven people were killed. The National Transportation Safety Board discovered that driver error and poor traffic signals were the cause of this accident.

One of the requirements addressed in the 2012 bill is for new bus designs to have stronger seating systems to reduce injuries in the event of an accident. This was included in the bill because investigators believe there would have been fewer deaths in the accident if the bus had seatbelts.

Factors in Serious Bus Accident Injuries

The lack of protection in bus accidents is a major reason why bus accidents cause serious injuries. One of the major bus safety concerns is seat belts. Despite the fact that law requires passengers to wear seatbelts in all other vehicles, the majority of buses lack them. The lack of protection is what makes passengers so vulnerable and why injuries tend to be severe.

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Laredo Work Accident Lawyers

Billions Won by Our Laredo Work Injury Attorneys

Serious workplace accidents occur frequently nationwide. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 5,000 workers killed on the job in 2017. Workers frequently sustain severe injuries in workplace accidents, forcing them to take time off work while they're buried in extensive medical bills. Many workers believe that their employers will provide them with the compensation they need to cover their medical bills and treatments; unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.

The following are common work accidents in Laredo, TX:

  • Offshore accidents
  • Chemical plant explosions
  • Hospital accidents
  • Ladder accidents
  • Workplace falls
  • Oil drill accidents
  • Construction accidents
  • Work vehicle accidents
  • Scaffolding accidents
  • Accidents during evacuation

Employers and their insurance companies are always finding ways to limit their liability and protect their interests, even if it means workers won’t receive the full compensation they deserve. If you were injured in a Laredo work accident, you are entitled to seek compensation for the damages. A Laredo work accident lawyer can help you recover the compensation you need while holding at-fault parties accountable. At Arnold & Itkin LLP, we've won billion of dollars in verdicts and settlements while going up against some of the largest companies in the nation. When you need an advocate, we're the firm that gets results.

Facts About Workplace Accidents

Government agencies like OSHA report that workplace injuries, illnesses, and even wrongful deaths are more common than they ought to be. This continues to be a nationwide issue that needs to be addressed to prevent more workplace injuries. Employer negligence and carelessness is a major contributor to work accidents, which means most workplace injuries are preventable.

Recent research shows the danger of injuries in the workplace:

  • An average of 50,000 workers has died from occupational diseases annually.
  • Workers suffer over 24,000 serious injuries every year.
  • Annually, 803 workers are killed because of workplace violence.
  • The most violated OSHA safety standard is fall protection.

Most Common Types of Workplace Injuries

Accidents can occur at any job where employers fail to provide a safe work environment or utilize proper safety protocols. Different types of injuries can result from workplace accidents, and many of them can require immediate (and costly) medical attention.

A variety of injuries can occur on the job, including:

  • Abrasion
  • Acoustic trauma
  • Back injuries
  • Brain injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Burns
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Cuts
  • Loss of limb
  • Loss of vision
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Sprains

What Causes Work Accidents?

Various things can cause a workplace accident, but the most common reasons are the carelessness, inexperience, and the negligence of employers and co-workers. Most often, employers are to blame for these problems. It's their duty to prevent yet, thanks to a focus on saving money, many of them fail to do it. This makes accidents at many worksites just a matter of time.

The negligence that leads to work injuries can take many forms, including:

  • Equipment Failures    
    Poorly maintained, manufactured, or operated equipment can cause serious and fatal injuries.
  • Falling Objects & Flying Debris    
    Falling objects and flying debris can damage the eyes, ears, and brain, leading to disabilities that rob a worker of his or ability to make a living. Falling objects and flying debris is common at construction sites, logging sites, factories, warehouses, and shipyards.
  • Slip & Falls    
    A slippery or cluttered floor, poor lighting, and lack of guardrails often trigger slip and fall accidents. These often occur at hospitals, construction sites, warehouses, stores, factories, ships, and drilling rigs.
  • Improper Maintenance    
    It is vital for companies to perform maintenance on machines and equipment at regular intervals to prevent breakdowns or injuries.
  • Failure to Comply with Safety Regulations    
    Employers often fail to meet the federal workplace and safety regulations—resulting in unsafe work environments.
  • Inadequate Inspections    
    Workers will be unable to identify risks in the workplace if employers fail to inspect them and the equipment around them. This can include defective ladders and scaffolds, derricks, cranes, hoists pulleys and forklifts.
  • Insufficient Training    
    Employers must train employees how to perform their work safely. Employees need to be fully informed of potential job hazards.
  • Mismanagement    
    A string of injuries may be the strongest indication that a business owner or supervisors are mismanaging a workplace.

What Can a Laredo Work Accident Lawyer Help Me Recover?

Since work accidents are preventable, our firm focuses on making sure the parties that caused them are held accountable. Injured workers have enough to worry about as they recover—finances shouldn't be another thing that causes hardships for them. We work to obtain all financial damages associated with a work accident.

Our Laredo work accident firm can recover things such as:

  • Lost wages
  • Medical debt
  • Cost of future care
  • Pain and suffering

When Should I Contact a Laredo Work Injury Lawyer?

As soon as possible after your accident. Always focus on making sure you receive the medical attention that you need first. Then, make it a priority to call our firm. The sooner you call, the more time your attorneys will have to investigate your accident and strengthen your claim. A lawyer will also help you take the right steps to make sure as much as possible is done for your claim.

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Laredo Construction Accident Attorneys

Our Construction Accident Lawyers in Laredo Have Won Billions in Results

Construction work is known nationwide for its high rate of serious injuries and fatalities. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) reported that 21 percent of nationwide workplace fatalities occurred in the construction industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 1 in 10 of every non-fatal workplace injury occurred in construction. Injuries and fatalities represent untold millions in healthcare costs, lost productivity, and public spending, so when construction is unsafe, we all lose.

The “Fatal Four” Construction Accidents

OSHA conducts an annual report on the most common construction accidents. Out of the 4,600 worker fatalities that occur every year, the leading causes of private sector worker deaths were responsible for 63.7 percent of fatalities. OSHA has narrowed down the most common construction fatalities as the “Fatal Four.”

Construction's Fatal Four are:

  • Falls: 39.9% of total construction fatalities
  • Struck by Object: 8.4% of total construction fatalities
  • Electrocution: 8.5% of total construction fatalities
  • Caught in-Between: 4.3% of total construction fatalities

These four accidents occur almost exclusively from circumstances that are preventable with the right safety protocols. In other words, Fatal Four accidents happen as a result of negligence. OSHA estimates that by eliminating the Fatal Four, more than 500 lives could be saved every year. For instance, scaffolding accidents alone injured over 4,500 workers and killed 60 workers annually.

The Most Common Causes of Injury at Construction Sites

The most common cause of serious injury is human error. Negligent supervisors or a co-worker’s absentminded mistakes can put other people in danger at any moment. Proper training and good leaders are vital to any site's safety, which is why companies can be held liable for accidents caused by poorly-trained workers.

Examples of issues that can cause construction accidents:

  • Improper site design or inspection
  • Unmarked hazards (ex: unprotected holes or roofing)
  • Safety code violations
  • Improperly stored materials
  • Using old or defective working materials

Common Construction Accidents

  • Falling from a Height - The most common cause of construction worker injury is falling from a height. OSHA reports more than 660 fatalities are caused by falling from a height every year. It is common for these accidents to occur while working on a roof. Scaffolding and ladder accidents also fall under this category. When workers are not provided with the proper fall protection, the results can be tragic.
  • Scaffolding Accident - Construction workers commonly work on scaffolding, or temporary structures to allow workers to work at a height on the exterior of a building. These can be erected improperly, making them extremely shaky and unsteady. More than 4,500 scaffolding accidents occur annually, and more than 70 percent of those injured said it happened because there was a lack of support, they slipped, or because a falling object hit them.
  • Ladder & Stairway Accident - More than 24,000 injuries and 35 fatalities occur annually from a fall from a ladder or a stairway. More than 50 percent of accident survivors are required to take time off from work after a fall. Tragic accidents can occur if the wrong ladder is used for the job, if it is in poor condition, or if the ladder was used improperly.
  • Defective & Dangerous Equipment - Defective machinery and equipment are the greatest hazards on construction sites. If a worker misuses equipment or the equipment is poorly maintained, it can lead to severe injuries. Workers need to be trained on how to use machinery like cranes or forklifts.
  • Harmful Chemicals & Toxic Exposure - A large number of construction workers handle chemicals that pose serious health risks, with hazardous conditions like skin irritation, flammability, corrosion, and more. OSHA regulates how workers handle toxic chemicals, but workers can experience serious problems if these regulations are not followed. Common side effects of toxic exposure include burns and respiratory problems. Toxic chemicals are also prone to causing major accidents, such as fires and explosions.
  • Crane Accidents - When cranes aren't operated safely, the results are usually devastating. A poor focus on safety, a lack of training, or overworking employees can make crane accidents more likely to happen. Crane collapses and accidents like them are always avoidable.

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Laredo Oilfield Injury Lawyers

Billions Won by Oilfield Accident Attorneys in Laredo, TX

Texas has been home to oil and gas exploration since the early 1900s. Today, Texas continues to be the largest oil producer in the United States, producing over 5 million barrels of oil in June 2019 alone. However, production has a price. The oil and gas industry also has some of the most hazardous jobs in the nation. The United States Department of Labor reported that in Texas, an average of 1,400 injuries and 199 fatalities occurred in the oil and gas industry every year. Many of these were caused by employers neglecting safety regulations.

Oil and gas industry workers such as derrick operators, roughnecks, and truck drivers are put at serious risk for the employer's benefit. Employees are commonly asked to perform risky tasks while companies fail to provide them with proper safety equipment and training to prevent accidents from occurring. If you have sustained injuries in an oilfield accident, you have the right to seek compensation for the harm you've suffered. Contact our Laredo oilfield injury lawyers for help securing the compensation you deserve.

The Dangers of Defective Equipment

Using heavy and complex machinery is a high-risk part of the job for oilfield workers, especially if the machinery is not properly operated. For example, derricks must be repaired and maintained in every way possible to perform their work safely. Explosions can occur when there is a malfunction in the complicated equipment used to extract oil. Explosion and fire accidents can lead to lifelong or fatal injuries.

Another accident that can occur due to faulty equipment is toxic exposure. Studies have revealed that fracking exposes workers to dangerous levels of benzene—a colorless gas that damages the nervous system, kidney, liver, and immune system. Benzene is also linked to cancer. Oilfield accidents and injuries can be prevented if employers maintained and repaired equipment when necessary, but they often don't because less upkeep reduces costs. Employers that fail to provide a safe work environment for the sake of profit should be held accountable for their negligent behavior.

Potential Dangers Faced by Oilfield Workers

Although there are a variety of workplace accidents that can occur at an oilfield drilling site, many are caused by the company’s negligence or reckless behavior.

Owners and supervisors may be held liable for any of the following injuries:

  • Explosions, Fires, Exposure to Chemicals: Exposure to hazardous chemicals or combustions can severely injure an oilfield worker. These types of accidents are typically caused by poor management or improperly maintained equipment.
  • Slips and Falls: An employer that fails to place guardrails or provide workers with anti-fall harnesses at great heights may be held responsible for these types of accidents.
  • Falling objects: Employees that work at elevated heights may drop a tool or a piece of equipment that can hurt another worker. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that worker’s tools are secured.
  • Malfunctioning Equipment: Companies are responsible for updating outdated or defective equipment and machinery to prevent them from becoming a hazard in the workplace.

Taking on Cases Against Large Companies in the Oil & Gas Industry

Our Laredo Oilfield accident attorneys handle cases against companies such as the following:

  • Apache Corporation
  • BP
  • Baker Hughes
  • Burlington Resources
  • CEMEX
  • Cactus Drilling Company, LLC
  • Chesapeake Energy
  • Chevron
  • Chicago Bridge & Iron
  • ConocoPhillips
  • COG Operating LLC
  • Devon Energy Corporation
  • Encana Corporation
  • EOG Resources
  • Endeavor Energy Resources
  • EP Energy
  • Helix Energy Solutions Group
  • Helmerich & Payne
  • Hitachi
  • Kinder Morgan
  • Marathon Oil Corporation
  • Marathon Petroleum Corporation
  • Motiva Enterprises
  • Murphy Oil Corporation
  • Noble Energy
  • Occidental Petroleum Corporation
  • PBF Energy
  • Phillips 66
  • Pioneer Natural Resources
  • Royal Dutch Shell
  • Sendero Drilling
  • SM Energy
  • Turner Industries Group LLC
  • Valero Energy
  • Weatherford International
  • XTO Energy Inc.

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Laredo Maritime Lawyers

We Fight for Maritime Workers Injured in Territorial & International Waters

Maritime work is rewarding, but it can be dangerous when employers put more importance on profits than safety. By failing to replace aging equipment, overlooking safety regulations, and pushing for higher production with less downtime, they put their workers and the environment at risk. At Arnold & Itkin, we stand up for injured maritime workers and their families. We fight against the immoral and illegal conduct by oil and gas companies and other corporations that endanger workers’ lives. Our Laredo maritime attorneys understand the nuances of maritime law and how it applies to every seaman, and we're relentless in our pursuit of justice on their behalf.

We fight for men and women injured in at sea, using our in-depth understanding of the following acts:

An Unparalleled Record of Success in Maritime Law

Our maritime lawyers have handled some of the most notorious and challenging cases in history—and won. When the entire crew of the El Faro cargo ship sank after running headlong into Hurricane Joaquin in 2015, we successfully represented the widows of 3 of the lost crew members, helping to ensure their families would be taken care of for life. After the explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon on April 20, 2010, we represented over one-third of the crew members, helping them seek justice after this preventable tragedy.

Some of our other notable maritime victories include:

  • $29 million for a family who lost a loved one in a fatal offshore accident.
  • $14 million for a seaman who suffered a head injury while on the Hercules 15 inland barge.
  • $11.5 million for a client who suffered serious physical and mental harm in an offshore accident.
  • $8.9 million for a seaman who suffered head trauma on an offshore drilling vessel.

We have won hundreds of settlements and verdicts in excess of $1 million on behalf of the injured and families who have lost loved ones as a result of safety violations, negligence, and defective products.

Jones Act Lawyers in Laredo

One of the most important maritime laws for offshore workers in the Jones Act. Passed in 1920, this law provides important options for recovery for people who work on a vessel. Our Laredo Jones Act lawyers have stood up to some of the largest corporations in the world and have won billions of dollars for clients in the process.

Our Laredo Jones Act law firm can help you recover losses such as:

  • Medical debt
  • Lost wages
  • The cost of future care
  • Pain and suffering
  • The lost ability to work
  • Other applicable damages

From oil rig explosions to deck accidents, the Jones Act is a law that requires offshore companies and vessel owners to make sure workers are safe. If you've suffered from an accident, Arnold & Itkin LLP is ready to help you move forward and discover what options for recovery are available to you.

Importantly, some injuries are so serious that they're referred to as being catastrophic. In the medical and legal communities, catastrophic injuries are described as any that cause a permanent change to the quality of a person's life. They're often painful, have life-long repercussions, and require extensive medical care.

Laredo LHWCA Attorneys

If you work in support of the offshore industry, you might be protected by the Longshore & Harbor Workers' Compensation Ac (LHWCA). This law was created to help longshoremen, harbor workers, and others who support the maritime industry recover after a preventable accident.

Below are employee benefits under the LHWCA:

  • Medical expenses
  • Payment for disease contraction caused by shipping harmful chemicals
  • Compensation for rehabilitation and/or physical therapy
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • Benefits for the families of workers killed on the job
  • 2/3 of your normal weekly pay for the duration of recovery

If you've suffered while working in support of the offshore industry, call our Laredo LHWCA lawyers now. We're ready to walk you through your options and help you decide if you're eligible to make a claim using the LHWCA.

Helping Laredo Residents After Cruise Ship Accidents

Going on vacation should mean getting away from home, relaxing, and—most of all—being safe. Yet, when cruise ship operators aren't safe, passengers and crew members suffer the most. If you've sustained injuries while on a cruise ship—whether you suffered from a gangway accident or another type of incident—our Laredo cruise ship accident lawyers can help. Since we're experienced with maritime law, we're ready to handle the specifics of your case and make sure every step is being taken to ensure you receive the compensation that you need rather than the low settlement offer of the cruise company.

What Is "Maintenance and Cure"?

Maintenance and cure are benefits provided to injured seamen under maritime law. Ship owners are required by law to provide basic living expenses and medical care to seamen who are injured or fall ill while on the job. Maintenance and cure must be provided until the seaman is well enough to return to work or reaches maximum medical cure. You may have the right to maintenance and cure, but without an attorney on your side, you may find it impossible to recover fair maintenance and to receive the medical care you need. We know how to represent the interests of injured seamen. We can help you get treatment from the doctor of your choosing, the full maintenance you need for your living expenses, and protection from being pressured to return to work before you’re ready.

What Is the Limitation of Liability Act? How Can It Affect My Maritime Case?

The Limitation of Liability Act essentially allows the owner of a vessel to sue injured crew members or the families of crew members who have lost their lives. This law was relevant when it was passed back in 1851, protecting ship owners from financial ruin in times when it was extremely dangerous to travel in international waters. Today, ship owners have technology and equipment at their disposal that makes shipping by sea far less dangerous. The accidents that do happen are far more likely to stem from ship owner negligence or wrongdoing than from piracy and heavy weather. Our team at Arnold & Itkin has successfully defeated attempts by ship owners to hide behind the Limitation of Liability Act time and time again, including for the crew of the Deepwater Horizon and widows of the El Faro crew. We’re committed to overcoming this antiquated law.

Do I Need a Maritime Lawyer?

If you were injured at sea, you deserve to receive the best medical care. You deserve to get the money you need to pay your bills while you can’t work. You also deserve to fully heal before returning to work.

If your injuries are so severe that you will be unable to work for a time or will never work again, you deserve to be supported for the rest of your life. Unfortunately, there is little chance of your employer treating you fairly. You’re more likely to be sued under the Limitation of Liability Act than to receive the help you need.

A skilled maritime lawyer can protect your interests and rights, against all attempts by your employer and their insurance company to downplay your injuries or underpay your claim. Instead of worrying how you’ll make ends meet and get the medical care you need, let our attorneys stand up and fight for you.

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Laredo Railroad Accident Attorneys

Billions Won by Train Crash Lawyers in Laredo, TX

Regardless of whether you are a passenger, a pedestrian, or an employee, millions of Americans like you have contact with the railway system every day; over 1.7 million people ride the subway in New York alone. Unfortunately, it only takes one equipment malfunction or a negligent railroad employee to cause a catastrophic train accident. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) reported that in 2011, there were almost 2,000 train accidents nationwide. Of these incidents, 1,442 involved train derailment.

Train Accident Facts

  • There is a train collision or derailment every 1.5 hours.
  • Railroads today are in serious need of updating and improvement.
  • The FRA reports that 80% of railroad crossings do not provide adequate warnings.
  • Train collisions involving pedestrians has increased over the last few years.

If you or a loved one were injured in a train accident, you are entitled to seek compensation for your losses. An experienced train accident attorney can help you obtain the financial compensation you need for your medical care and other expenses. The Laredo train accident attorneys at Arnold & Itkin LLP have helped hundreds of accident victims recover the compensation they deserve, winning billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. We understand how challenging this time can be; we work tirelessly to ensure that we secure the best possible results for your case while helping you provide for yourself in the present.

Passenger Train Accidents

Train accident injuries occur annually on rail services nationwide. Many of these accidents include train derailments, collisions, or faulty equipment. It is essential for operators and employers to follow safety protocols to prevent accidents from occurring. When passengers are boarding or de-boarding the train or railcar is when most accidents occur. For that reason, train employee must maintain vigilance to protect their riders.

Common causes of railroad accidents include:

  • Defective or missing crossties
  • Failure to apply hand brakes
  • Failure to comply with restricted speeds
  • Failure to control shoving movement
  • Switch points worn or broken
  • Switches improperly lined

With hundreds of tons of cargo, steel, and glass, trains collisions are the most devastating vehicle accidents you can experience on land. As a result, the injuries that result from train accidents are often life-changing. Catastrophic injuries can leave survivors unable to support themselves, make independent decisions, or even move around on their own. The medical cost of a catastrophic injury can easily reach the high six-figure or seven-figure range, leaving entire families in emotional and financial hardship.

Common Types of Train Accidents

Train accidents typically result in severe destruction because of a train's high speed and massive weight. Below is a list of the most common types of train accidents.

  • Train Accidents Involving Cars - Many train accidents involve cars on the tracks at grade crossings. In other situations, negligent conductors can cause the trail to derail and collide with cars on the road. Due to the immense impact of a train, these accidents tend to be fatal for motorists and their passengers.
  • Train-on-Train Collision - The railroad industry has taken great measures to ensure that no two trains ever collide as a result of the railroad system. If an accident does occur, it is usually caused by a negligent employer or conductor.
  • Train Accidents Involving Pedestrians - Pedestrian and train collisions are very common and can cause pedestrians to suffer life-changing injuries or death. Pedestrians have little chance of survival when they are hit by a train. In some cases, pedestrian impact can be caused by factors like slippery platforms, unclear crossing signage, or other factors.

Accidents Caused by Conductor Negligence

Train engineers are required to follow specific safety guidelines to keep other railroad employees and passengers safe. When they fail to follow the required safety protocols, they put the lives of others in danger. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTBS) investigates every major accident, and they thoroughly review railroad safety and conductor negligence because it is a common cause of railroad accidents.

Examples of contractor negligence can include:

  • Managing the train intoxicated
  • Working while on drugs
  • Talking on a cell phone or texting
  • Any behavior that distracts the driver from doing their job

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Laredo Boat Accident Attorneys

Leading Trial Lawyers for Boating Accident Cases in Laredo, TX

While boats are fun, they are also incredibly dangerous if operated in an unsafe way. Texas Parks & Wildlife has determined that 50 percent of all boating incidents involve alcohol. This suggest that most, if not all, accidents are preventable on the water. Making things more dangerous for boaters is the fact that nearly anyone can operate a boat in Texas. In fact, the state allows boat renters to operate vessels with no license or certification!

If you've been hurt in a vessel collision or any other type of accident, our Laredo boat accident lawyers are ready to help you. Whether your injuries were caused by a careless operator or a reckless company, we're ready to fight for the answers to problems that you should never have had.

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Laredo Wrongful Death Lawyers

Fighting for Grieving Families in Laredo, TX & Nationwide

Losing a loved one is the most difficult experience in a person’s life—especially if their death could have been prevented. Unfortunately, this is the case for hundreds of families in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average of 146,000 unintentional accidental deaths occur every year. According to studies on grief, each of these deaths caused concrete emotional, social, and financial harm to spouses, parents, or children.

If you are one of those families that lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for what you've lost. The Laredo wrongful death lawyers at Arnold & Itkin LLP have the resources and track record to help you rebuild your life and hold at-fault people accountable for the death of your loved one. We have won billions of dollars for people nationwide, helping them pay for funeral costs, loss of benefits, loss of companionship, and more.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death occurs when a person’s actions, negligent or deliberate, cause the death of another. A claim under wrongful death holds at-fault parties liable for some of the economic and emotional losses associated with the death of a loved one, from funeral costs to punitive damages for criminal negligence.

Filing a wrongful death claim allows a victim’s family to grieve in peace without wondering how they'll pay the bills or provide for themselves. If an individual was responsible and they're already facing criminal proceedings, certain family members can still file a civil lawsuit against him or her. If a company was responsible, a wrongful death claim is the only justice those at fault will ever face.

Which Types of Incidents Qualify as Wrongful Death?

  • Fatal car accidents caused by drunk driving, texting, or other forms of negligence
  • Workplace accidents caused poor training, negligent management, or poorly maintained equipment
  • Accidents caused by assaults, attacks, or other criminal actions
  • Drowning accidents due to property damage or premises liability
  • Defective products or pharmaceuticals

Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In most states, family members are the only ones eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Courts largely give children and spouses the primary right to file a wrongful death claim. A parent, sibling, or another relative will be unable to file a claim if a child or spouse is already pursuing one. If you have any additional questions on your eligibility to file a wrongful death claim, you'll need to speak with an attorney.

The parties eligible to file a wrongful death claim include:

  • Children over 18 years old
  • Spouses
  • Siblings
  • Parents
  • Parents of unmarried children
  • Any dependents

There is a 2-year statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. This means that you have a limited amount of time to file a wrongful death claim after you suffered the loss of a loved one. Contact our Laredo wrongful death attorneys as soon as possible to get started on your claim.

To learn more about wrongful death, read Sec. 71 of the Civil Practice & Remedies Code.

What Damages Can Be Claimed in a Wrongful Death Suit?

The loss of a loved one is emotionally devastating and physically draining. You might also experience significant financial losses to pay for funeral costs, medical expenses, or your family's basic needs. Financial support can ease your situation and remove the burden of paying bills while you and your family grieve.

You are entitled to recover monetary compensation for three general types of damages, such as:

  • Economic Damages—This type of compensation is for funeral and medical expenses related to the death of your loved one. You also have the right to recover the loss of future income and benefits that your loved one would
  • Non-Economic Damages—These types of damages include pain and suffering and mental anguish. This may also include loss of companionship and consortium.
  • Punitive Damages—Depending on the situation, the court may grant families additional compensation as a way to punish the responsible parties for their actions.

Arnold & Itkin LLP has won some of the largest personal injury and wrongful death claims in the nation. Our work on behalf of plant workers, motorists, offshore employees, and more has allowed us to radically improve the lives of thousands of people. With hundreds of results of $1 million or more and dozens of results of $10 million or more, we have the track record to help your family get its life back.

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About Laredo, TX

Sitting on the north bank of the Rio Grande River in Texas, Laredo is a border city that sits across from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. It is the seat of Webb County and, as of July 2021, had an estimated population of 256,153. Because it sits on the border of the United States and Mexico, Laredo’s economy is primarily based on international trade between the two countries. It is the largest inland port of entry in the United States. There are four international bridges and one railway bridge in Laredo, and numerous transportation companies have their headquarters in the city.

Laredo has been nicknamed “The Gateway City” because of its location on the border; it has also been called “The City Under Seven Flags” because it flies the Six Flags of Texas and the flag of the former Republic of the Rio Grande. It was the temporary capital of the Republic of the Rio Grande in 1840 before military forces brought it back under Mexico's authority. It was during the Mexican-American War that Texas Rangers occupied Laredo, and the land was ceded to the United States after the war ended. When this happened, some residents of Laredo moved across the Rio Grande River and established Nuevo Laredo in Mexico, while others stayed and became Texans as a result. The city was rechartered in 1852.

Laredo is known for its history, arts, and culture. Every year, Laredo attracts about 400,000 people to the month-long Washington’s Birthday Celebration, which was founded in 1898 to celebrate George Washington’s birthday. Laredo’s Jalapeño Festival is also very popular. The city is home to numerous museums that celebrate its history and culture, such as the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum, the Laredo Center for the Arts, and the Nuevo Santander Museum Complex. Visitors can also see Fort McIntosh, which was in operation from 1849 to 1946.

Laredo Links & Resources

Contact a Legal Team That Won’t Give Up – (888) 493-1629

Regardless of the circumstances of your case, we encourage you to get in touch with injury lawyers in Laredo as soon as possible. We know that results matter—and we deliver. To see for yourself, all you need to do is browse through our case results online. We’ve won billions, set records, and achieved premium results that have helped our clients get their lives back on track. We look forward to helping you however we can.

To see for yourself how we can help, call (888) 493-1629 now for a free consultation with a Laredo personal injury lawyer.

Common Questions

  • How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Laredo, Texas?

    Anyone who sustained injuries during an accident has a limited time to file a claim. However, nothing should top you from calling a lawyer to find out what your options are. A consultation with our Laredo personal injury law firm is free because we want to make it as simple as possible for people to discover what their options are. If your accident recently happened, waste no time with calling our team!
  • What Can a Laredo Personal Injury Lawyer from Arnold & Itkin Help With?

    We're always focused on helping clients recover and find a path forward after an accident. Our lawyers operate with two simple beliefs: all people deserve justice and no one should suffer because of the negligence of others. We fight for the compensation that clients need and we never settle for less. Things we often recover for clients include lost wages, medical debt, the cost of future care, pain and suffering, and more.
  • What If the Insurance Company Denied My Claim?

    You should call an attorney if the insurance company delays or denies your claim. Often, insurers try to settle a case for as little as possible. In some cases, they deny cases with the hopes of making claimants give up. Our team has a history of standing up to insurance companies and we always demand the compensation that is fair rather than the compensation they're trying to get away with paying.
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