Protecting Texas & Houston Maritime Workers: Local Insight, National Results
Crews on tugboats and barges face significant risks. The U.S. Coast Guard reported 14 fatalities involving towing vessels and barges in 2022 and 2023, and the majority of barge and tugboat accident deaths occur as a result of falls overboard, accounting for about 44% of fatalities over the past 22 years. The overall fatality rate has gradually declined over the years, but these statistics are little comfort to injured workers or grieving families in Houston, Texas, and across the Gulf.
Arnold & Itkin has extensive experience with all types of barge and tugboat accident claims. We know the kind of serious accidents that arise from insufficient crew training, inadequate or worn equipment, and companies that refuse to put safety first. We know how much is on the line, and we know that only the best Houston injury attorney will do.
A Track Record of Success in Tug & Barge Accident Cases
Our Texas barge accident attorneys have secured more than $20 billion in verdicts and settlements, with a significant portion recovered on behalf of injured maritime and offshore workers. We have long been recognized as a leading authority in admiralty law, winning results after high-profile disasters such as the Deepwater Horizon explosion, the sinking of the El Faro, and other maritime accidents impacting workers in Texas and across the nation. Our commitment to justice for barge and tugboat accident victims has been widely reported throughout Houston and beyond.
Some of our notable 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."
As one of the largest port cities in the United States, Houston offers unique opportunities—and risks—for maritime workers. The Houston Ship Channel alone handles one of the highest volumes of cargo traffic in the country, making it a focal point for tugboat and barge operations as well as barge accident claims. Our knowledge of both Texas and federal maritime regulations allows us to help those who keep our ports running and deserve protection from preventable workplace injuries. When you need a barge injury attorney in Houston, experience, knowledge, and commitment matter.
Barge accidents can have wide-ranging consequences, impacting workers, families, and the Houston community. Serious injuries can prevent a return to work, disrupt financial security, and create lasting emotional trauma. At Arnold & Itkin, we believe barge operators and maritime employers must be held accountable for maintaining seaworthy vessels and promoting safe environments. From your first call through the final resolution, our Houston barge accident lawyers are dedicated to fighting for your rights, helping you get the care you need, and securing the compensation you deserve.
We can help after any barge accident in the Houston area, including those involving:
Jack-Up Barges: Also referred to as jack-up rigs, these platforms drill for oil in shallow waters.
Cargo Barges: These vessels may carry dry bulk, such as grains, or hazardous liquids like petroleum.
Deck Barges: Flat-surfaced vessels used to transport heavy equipment, vehicles, and oversized cargo.
Hopper Barges: Designed with large open holds to carry bulk commodities like coal, grain, or aggregates.
Tank Barges: Built to transport liquid cargo, including petroleum products, chemicals, and other hazardous materials.
Spud Barges: Equipped with vertical steel shafts (spuds) to anchor the vessel in place during marine construction.
Crane Barges: Outfitted with heavy lifting cranes for offshore construction, salvage work, and cargo transfers.
Accommodation Barges: Floating living quarters used to house workers near offshore job sites.
Dry Cargo Barges: Fully enclosed or covered barges that carry and protect non-liquid goods.
Push Barges: Pushed by towboats, often transporting multiple connected loads through inland waterways.
Houston tugboat and barge workers are protected by the Jones Act and federal maritime regulations, which guarantee seamen the right to seaworthy vessels.
Every barge accident is unique. Claims can involve mechanical failure, operational negligence, or environmental conditions unique to Texas ports. The complexities of maritime law and varying jurisdictions overseeing Houston's waterways make barge and tugboat accident claims particularly challenging. Choosing an experienced barge accident lawyer in Houston is essential to navigate these issues and identify every liable party. Our comprehensive understanding of federal, Texas, and local port regulations enables us to protect clients' interests and seek rightful compensation.
Common Causes of Tugboat Accidents
Tugboats are crucial for transporting diverse cargo to and from Houston’s major ports, but their operation can be hazardous. The design of modern tugboats—optimized for horsepower, stability, and high fuel capacity—also poses risks such as tripping, falls, and serious accidents with winches and tow lines. Many of the most dangerous barge accidents occur when workers transfer between tugboats and barges, especially in the busy Houston Ship Channel.
Tugboat accidents may result from collisions with docks, the shoreline, sandbars, or other vessels. Transitions from barge to dock or tug, slippery decks due to bad weather or hydraulic leaks, and crowded port conditions in Houston increase the risk of injury. Defective or poorly maintained equipment can also create hazards during these maneuvers.
Some of the most devastating injuries on tugboats stem from high-tension tow lines and winches. Built for strength, these systems can cause life-altering harm if they snap or sweep the deck. Frayed or outdated lines can part suddenly, leaving vessels adrift and crew members in danger. Despite advances in high-strength, lightweight tow lines, some companies operating in Houston still refuse to make these safety investments, exposing workers to unnecessary risk.
Understaffing is another contributing factor, as maritime companies at times operate vessels with inadequate personnel. Fatigue, overwork, and poor emergency preparedness increase injury risks for the entire crew. In peak shipping seasons, port authorities in Houston often warn of the dangers of undermanned operations on local waterways.
Environmental and weather-related factors also play a significant role in Houston tugboat accidents. Sea conditions, storms, and fog can reduce visibility and increase the risk of collisions or falls. Failure to adhere to rigorous maintenance and safety protocols further compounds these risks, leading to more frequent and severe accidents on Texas waterways.
Technological Advances & Safety Measures
With modern tugboat and barge operations in Houston adopting advanced safety systems, consistent equipment maintenance and employee training are crucial. Automatic identification systems, real-time weather monitoring, and safety training are all viewed as vital preventive steps. Yet, as our barge injury lawyers in Houston have seen, companies sometimes fail to enforce industry standards or update their technology, leading to tragic results.
Unique Houston Factors Increasing Accident Risks
Houston's commercial activity—especially along the Houston Ship Channel—creates heavy vessel traffic and complex navigation in fast-changing weather conditions. These factors contribute to congestion-related accidents, requiring companies to be vigilant about compliance with safety standards set by local and federal agencies. Our Houston tugboat accident attorneys have represented clients impacted by these very challenges.
Employers must implement rigorous safety practices and continuous training for crew members, and vessel owners must ensure tugboats are properly maintained.
Damages & Compensation for Houston Barge Accidents
Victims of barge and tugboat accidents often face significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. In Houston, injury claims can include various types of compensation depending on the facts of the case, the role of your employer, and which maritime law applies. Common damages awarded in barge accident claims include all necessary medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and the cost of future care.
Detailed documentation—such as medical records and wage statements—is critical for maximizing these damages in a court of law.
At Arnold & Itkin, our barge accident attorneys in Houston carefully evaluate both current and future needs for every client. We work with local physicians and vocational experts to understand the medical and economic effects of your injuries, particularly as many Houston maritime jobs are physically demanding and highly skilled. Our firm builds every case with a commitment to securing all the compensation available under the Jones Act, other federal regulations, and Texas state law, giving you and your family resources to rebuild your lives after a serious maritime injury.
The Legal Process for Barge Accident Cases in Houston, TX
Understanding the legal timeline and procedures helps reduce uncertainty for victims and their families. After emergency care and notifying your employer, your Houston barge accident attorney will launch an in-depth investigation, collecting evidence such as crew logs, inspection records, and witness statements. Because Houston’s port environment is regulated by both state and federal authorities, investigations may require involvement from the Houston Port Authority, the Texas General Land Office, or the local U.S. Coast Guard office, depending on where the incident took place.
Filing & Pursuing a Barge Accident Claim
Depending on the facts of your case, your claim—whether under the Jones Act, Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, or other maritime law—may be filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas or in Harris County courts. Our Houston barge injury lawyers closely monitor all jurisdictional and venue issues to ensure the strongest possible legal strategy. The process may involve negotiation, or, if required, litigation and trial. We keep clients fully informed at every step, using our local experience to anticipate issues and deliver clear, timely advice.
Local Regulations & Houston Maritime Law
Comprehending both local and federal regulations is essential for pursuing a barge or tugboat injury claim in Houston. As one of the most active maritime regions in the country, Houston’s port operations are governed by laws such as the Jones Act, the General Maritime Law, and state codes. Many states—including Texas—enforce worker protections that go beyond federal requirements. As Houston’s leading injury firm, Arnold & Itkin remains at the forefront of changes in local maritime law and keeps clients informed of all legal developments affecting their rights and recovery potential.
Each sector within Houston’s extensive maritime industry—from oil and gas to bulk cargo handling—has its own regulatory framework governing vessel maintenance, crew training, and safe operations. We maintain current knowledge of Houston Port Authority requirements, OSHA enforcement, and safety initiatives impacting workers at every stage of the shipping process. For barge accident attorneys in Houston, this is needed to provide superior representation.
In claims involving Houston’s busy ports, understanding how local ordinances, hazardous materials rules, and Coast Guard regulations apply can mean the difference between success and failure. Our legal team remains proactive in gathering agency reports, leveraging regional contacts, and communicating with appropriate officials to streamline your case and protect your rights. We commit to advocating for Houston’s maritime workforce at every turn.
Because of Houston’s role as a port city, effective counsel requires a unique combination of legal experience and practical familiarity with port officials, administrative processes, and safety standards. Our barge injury attorneys in Houston are well-positioned and well-versed in these processes.
Why Choose a Houston-Based Barge Accident Lawyer?
Choosing a barge accident attorney in Houston provides significant advantages, especially due to the city’s unique maritime industry and local court systems. Our local attorneys are familiar with the regional legal landscape, court processes, and the operational realities of Houston’s busy shipping centers.
We bring insight into critical variables—such as which judges and venues most frequently handle maritime cases—giving clients a strategic advantage in pursuing their claims.
At Arnold & Itkin, our team of Houston barge accident lawyers delivers this local edge along with unmatched commitment, communication, and care. We pride ourselves on treating clients like family and maintaining close relationships within the Houston maritime and healthcare communities. When you need a barge injury lawyer in Houston, our local presence means prompt response, thorough investigations, and continuous access to leading physicians and rehabilitation professionals familiar with maritime injuries.
A History of Barges and Tugs in Houston
For over a century, barges and tugboats have been essential to commerce along the Houston Ship Channel—one of the busiest and most strategically important waterways in the United States. Since its formal opening in 1914, the channel has grown into a 52-mile corridor connecting the Port of Houston to the Gulf of Mexico. It supports thousands of daily vessel movements, many involving tugs guiding massive barges filled with oil, chemicals, and cargo.
But with this heavy traffic comes serious risks. The confined waters, fast-paced operations, and dense industrial infrastructure make the Houston Ship Channel a hotspot for maritime accidents. Barge and tug workers operate in high-pressure environments where a single mistake or act of negligence can lead to devastating consequences.
At Arnold & Itkin, we know the history—and we fight to protect the people who keep this industry moving.
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 sank 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 discovered 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 while the other leaked thousands of barrels of refined gasoline product into the water. Both barges were carrying 25,000 barrels of reformate, a highly flammable chemical used to blend gasoline. This spill was not only fatal if ingested, but it also posed a severe risk to marine life and the Houston environment.
The 2017 Bouchard Barge Explosion
In October 2017, Bouchard Transportation Co. Barge No. 255 was off the coast of Port Aransas when oil vapors, which had collected over time, ignited. The explosion killed two deckhands, one of whom was never recovered. Witnesses reported that the event involved multiple explosions, compounding the tragedy.
An ensuing Coast Guard investigation found the company had a pattern of silencing, terminating, or threatening employees who raised safety concerns about their vessels. While captains had the authority to stop work for safety, exercising this power often resulted in termination. Investigators discovered these safety hazards—including dangerous accumulations of oil vapor—existed on multiple Bouchard barges.
An NTSB investigation held Bouchard responsible for these hazardous onboard conditions.
Can I Sue for a Barge or Tugboat Injury?
Like other maritime workers, barge and tugboat crew members in Houston are protected by federal laws. There are several possible legal avenues for seeking compensation from your employer or a vessel owner, including the Jones Act. Our barge accident lawyers in Houston have a well-established record of handling Jones Act claims, drawing from our knowledge of what these claims require for success and how to maximize the damages for injured maritime workers.
Knowing your rights as a Houston maritime worker is critical. While the Jones Act provides distinctive rights to crew members, the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act or similar laws may also apply based on your job duties and where the injury occurred. Comprehensive legal advice from an experienced barge injury attorney in Houston can help you choose the best course of action and ensure that all available benefits and compensation are pursued.
We've investigated causes of injury on barges and tugboats such as:
Equipment failure
Crew negligence
Tow winch incidents
Falling overboard
Handling heavy lines
Parted tow lines
Your claim will depend on several factors, including the extent of your injuries, where the accident occurred, and whether you can return to work in any capacity. No matter your circumstances, it is important to consult with a Houston barge accident attorney as soon as possible. Our Houston barge accident lawyers offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and potential options.
Your Rights as a Barge Worker in Houston
Tug and barge workers in Houston benefit from the protection of several maritime statutes, including the Jones Act, the LHWCA, and other relevant federal and state laws. These statutes provide core rights such as the ability to pursue compensation for injuries arising from employer negligence or unseaworthy vessels. Consulting with a skilled barge injury attorney in Houston gives you the advantage of complete legal representation—both in negotiations and, when necessary, in court—to ensure your rights are preserved to the fullest extent of all applicable laws.
Generally, injured workers have up to three years from the date of a Houston barge accident to file a lawsuit under federal law, although specifics may vary based on the incident and where it occurred. A timely consultation with a barge accident lawyer in Houston ensures no deadlines are missed, and that important evidence is preserved right away.
Some Houston cases may involve more than basic compensation; punitive damages may be possible if egregious conduct is documented. When companies dispute liability or try to downplay injuries, it is even more vital to have a diligent barge injury attorney in Houston gathering evidence, securing witness statements, and accessing safety records. Our team understands the legal challenges unique to Texas ports and aggressively seeks maximum compensation.
At Arnold & Itkin, our attorneys conduct a comprehensive evaluation of each claim, including reviews of the employer’s safety record, vessel maintenance history, and relevant prior incidents in Houston. By identifying patterns of negligence or repeated regulatory violations, we build stronger cases and help ensure maritime employers throughout Texas are held accountable for failing to follow mandated safety practices.
Next Steps After a Tugboat or Barge Accident
After a tugboat or barge accident in Houston, the actions you take in the hours and days that follow can make a significant difference in your recovery—both physically and financially. In Houston’s busy ports, evidence such as vessel logs, crew records, and maintenance reports can disappear quickly as repairs are made or crews rotate. Agencies like the U.S. Coast Guard and OSHA may launch inquiries that affect your claim. Acting fast helps secure critical proof, protect your legal rights, and maximize your ability to pursue compensation under maritime law.
Here are a few key steps to take immediately after a barge or tug accident:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Get treatment right away, even if your injuries seem minor.
Report the Incident: Notify your supervisor and ensure the accident is documented in official reports.
Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any equipment involved.
Identify Witnesses: Collect names and contact information from anyone who saw the incident.
Document Everything: Medical visits, treatment costs, missed workdays, and communication with your employer.
At Arnold & Itkin, we help injured barge and tug workers secure key evidence and navigate every step of the legal process. From your first call, our Houston barge accident attorneys are ready to protect your rights, work with investigators, and fight for the compensation you deserve under Texas and federal maritime law.
Our Houston barge accident lawyers have dedicated their careers to helping people overcome injuries and loss. We have achieved hundreds of recoveries of $1 million or more and dozens of recoveries in excess of $10 million. Our mission is simple: to provide every client with the opportunity for a better future. If you have been hurt through no fault of your own, those responsible should be held accountable. Justice happens when the right legal team fights for you.
If you are asking, "What comes next for me and my family?" or are worried about medical bills and lost income, we are here to help. Our Houston barge accident attorneys have solutions that can address your challenges, help you secure necessary care, and give you a path to move forward. Reach out for your free consultation today.
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.
CommonQuestions
What Injuries Can Result from a Barge or Tugboat Accident?
A tugboat or barge accident can cause serious injuries. Some of these can be fatal. In barge collisions, fires, and explosions, for example, crew members may experience catastrophic injuries and even drowning, near-drowning, or hypothermia if they are thrown or jump from the barge. Other injuries may include severe burns, broken bones, loss of limb, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and crush injuries. Because these injuries are so severe, getting the right treatment and fair financial support will make all the difference for an injured worker and his or her family.
What Types of Barge & Tugboat Workers Do You Represent?
Our tugboat and barge accident attorneys represent all types of crew members and seamen who work on barges or other maritime vessels. We also help family members of barge and tugboat workers who have lost their lives in explosions, fires, and other accidents. Whether you’re a dredging operation worker, deckhand, captain, crane barge worker, pilot, or other crew member, you can count on our knowledge of maritime law as it applies to your accident. At Arnold & Itkin, we’ve recovered billions for our clients and have represented crew and family members affected by the worst maritime disasters in history. We are here to help you.
What Should I Do If I Was Injured in a Tugboat or Barge Accident?
If you were involved in any type of accident while working on a barge or tugboat, get the medical care you need. You have the right to seek treatment from the doctor of your choosing, so pick the right medical facility and professional. Be sure to inform your employer of what occurred, but do not sign anything that excuses your employer from legal accountability or limits your financial recovery. Talk to an attorney about your rights in filing a Jones Act or other claim that applies to your situation, as this will help cover your medical bills, the cost of ongoing treatment, your lost earnings, loss of future income, and possibly more.
Will I Need to Go to Court for My Barge Accident Claim?
Many barge accident claims are settled out of court through negotiations between your attorney and the responsible parties’ insurers. However, if a fair settlement is unattainable, proceeding to court may be necessary to achieve rightful compensation. Having a Houston barge injury attorney who is prepared to litigate can make all the difference. At Arnold & Itkin, our trial-tested attorneys willingly take on such challenges to safeguard our clients' interests.
Can I Choose Any Lawyer for My Barge Accident Claim?
While you can technically choose any lawyer, opting for one with extensive experience in maritime law and a solid reputation in handling barge accident claims in Houston will likely yield better outcomes. Such lawyers understand the intricacies of maritime claims, local regulations, and court systems specific to Houston, enabling them to provide tailored legal strategies. Arnold & Itkin offers the proficiency and dedication required to tackle these complex matters effectively.
