News
Lives Derailed: The Concealed Crisis of Railroad Worker Safety
In the sweltering heat of a July afternoon in 2018, the tragic fate of Gregory West unfolded in the rugged terrain of northern Tennessee. West, a 57-year-old engineer, and his conductor found themselves in dire straits when their train stalled; at the end of their shift, they were still left stranded. Directed by rail company officials to reach a rendezvous point on foot, West embarked on an arduous hour-long trek across steep hills, burdened with two heavy bags, in the oppressive summer heat. Tragically,
From Gulf Shores to Global Shores: Galveston’s Ascendancy in the Cruise Industry
The coastal city of Galveston, Texas, is charting a course towards becoming a leading destination and debarkation site in the cruise industry. With the recent announcement by MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise operator, Galveston is poised to solidify its status as a key player on the maritime map. Starting in 2025, MSC Cruises will anchor its stunning MSC Seascape at the Texas port, marking a significant milestone in the city’s nautical history. As maritime attorneys who represent
Cruise Ship Injuries: Charting Your Course to Compensation
Going on a cruise is usually about fun and relaxation, but if you get hurt, it can quickly turn into a big headache. Dealing with a personal injury on a cruise ship isn’t just about healing; it’s also about understanding the many maritime laws that are different from what we’re used to on land. Filing a lawsuit under these laws can be like trying to find your way through a maze, where you need to know the right steps to take and the right people to talk to. Here at Herd Law Firm, we are experienced in
Six Essential Maritime Law Concepts Every Cruise Ship Passenger Should Know
Embarking on a cruise ship is more than a mere holiday; it’s an adventure that sails across the vast, blue canvas of the sea. However, beneath the sun-soaked decks and starlit soirées, there’s a complex web of maritime laws that govern the waters. For passengers aboard these luxurious vessels, understanding these laws can help ensure your safety, security, and peace of mind. As Houston maritime attorneys, we believe it’s important to have a “compass” to navigate these essential maritime laws every
20 Essential Tips for a Successful Mediation
Mediation, a form of alternative dispute resolution, offers parties the opportunity to resolve their disputes without the need for litigation. In Texas, as with other jurisdictions, understanding the nuances and guidelines for successful mediation can be the key to achieving a favorable outcome for all involved. Below are 20 essential tips for an effective mediation.Be Prepared: As with any legal process, being well-prepared gives you a solid foundation. Know the facts, the applicable law, and the
Personal Locator Devices: A Lifeline for Maritime Workers
In a significant move to support safety at sea, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a safety alert that marks a pivotal moment for maritime operations. The alert urges vessel owners and operators to equip each crew member with a personal locator device, a step that could dramatically improve the chances of rescue during maritime emergencies. This recommendation comes in the wake of investigations into several maritime incidents, revealing the potential life-saving benefits of
Texas’ Troubling Trend: A Closer Look at the Lone Star State’s Drunk Driving Problem
Texas, with a population nearing 30 million, faces a critical issue concerning road safety. Recent findings from Forbes Advisor place the Lone Star State alarmingly high in rankings for drunken drivers involved in fatal crashes and the percentage of traffic deaths due to alcohol impairment. This concerning trend calls for a deeper examination of the underlying factors and the consequences for the state. The Disturbing Statistics Forbes Advisor’s comprehensive study compared all 50 states across six
Navigating the Seas of Justice: Understanding the Laws that Protect Merchant Mariners and Maritime Workers
The world of maritime work is as vast and complex as the oceans these workers navigate. From merchant mariners to offshore oil rig workers, these individuals face unique challenges and risks. It’s crucial, therefore, to understand the legal frameworks that exist to protect them, and how maritime lawyers (such as ourselves at Herd Law Firm!) play a pivotal role in upholding their rights. The Unique Legal Landscape of the Sea Maritime work does not generally fit neatly into standard labor laws. Instead,
Navigating the Road Together: Understanding the “Looked but Failed to See” Phenomenon in Motorcyclist/Car Collision
Navigating around other vehicles on our roadways is a complex interplay of motion, speed, and, most critically, human perception and decision-making. Among the many scenarios that unfold on the streets every day, one particular type of incident, known as the “Looked but Failed to See”. (Source: LookLearnLive.org) (LBFTS) Right-of-way Violation (ROWV) motorcyclist/car collision, presents a complex challenge. This phenomenon, extensively studied by safety advocates like the Texas Department of
Readying Your Tomball Small Business for a Successful Fourth Quarter
The fourth quarter is upon us, which means it's time to start wrapping up the year and preparing for the next one. For small businesses, this can be a hectic time. There are year-end goals to evaluate, new goals to set, holiday marketing to plan, inventory to stock up on, and taxes to prepare for. But don't worry—the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce has got you covered. Here's a quick rundown of what you need to do to get your small business ready for the fourth quarter. Evaluating