Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA)
If your loved one was lost at sea, you could be eligible to receive compensation under the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA). DOHSA is federal legislation that provides legal recourse for families of those who have tragically lost their lives while at sea, ensuring they receive the support they need during such a challenging time.
Our maritime injury lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers in Houston, Texas, are dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of DOHSA claims, offering guidance and compassionate support to help secure the compensation you deserve.
We’ve won tens of millions of dollars for our clients and have decades of combined experience. Contact us today in Houston, TX, at 713-500 5000 to get started with a free case evaluation.
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How Can Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers Help With a Case Under DOHSA?
When facing the devastating loss of a loved one at sea, the complexities of the legal process can be overwhelming. Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers knows how to navigate the issues surrounding DOHSA cases, providing clients with the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively pursue these claims.
Our Houston maritime injury attorneys understand the unique challenges that come with admiralty law and are committed to advocating for the rights of families impacted by these tragic events.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers offers comprehensive legal services to guide you through every step of your DOHSA claim. Here are just some of the many ways our firm can help:
- Investigate the circumstances of the death
- Gather and preserve crucial evidence
- Consult with maritime and medical experts
- File necessary legal documents
- Negotiate with insurance companies and other parties
- Represent you in court if necessary
- Provide ongoing legal advice and support
With our extensive experience in maritime law, Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is prepared to handle your case with the knowledge and resources it deserves. We strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients, doing everything we can to ensure that justice is served and your family’s needs are met.
What Is the Death on the High Seas Act?
The Death on the High Seas Act is designed to provide a pathway to compensation for the families of individuals who die as a result of wrongful acts or negligence occurring beyond three nautical miles from the shore of the United States.
This law applies to various maritime scenarios, including commercial shipping, fishing vessels, and passenger cruises. As a federal statute, it provides a standard of liability and compensation across all states, which is crucial in the complex field of maritime law.
DOHSA addresses the unique risks and challenges associated with maritime work, recognizing that the sea presents dangers that are not typical in other environments. The act is designed to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions, whether it be the shipowner, operator, or another party whose negligence contributed to your loved one’s death.
Understanding DOHSA is essential for pursuing a maritime wrongful death claim, as it sets out specific legal requirements and limitations that must be met.
What Are the Requirements for Compensation Under DOHSA?
To seek compensation under the Death on the High Seas Act, certain legal requirements must be met. These requirements ensure that the claim is valid and that the circumstances of the death fall within the scope of DOHSA.
Among the key requirements for compensation are:
- The death must have occurred beyond three nautical miles from the shore of the United States
- The death must have resulted from a wrongful act, neglect, or default
- Death must have occurred on a commercial vessel
- The claim must be brought by the personal representative of the deceased
- The beneficiaries of the claim must be the deceased’s spouse, parent, child, or dependent relative
Meeting these requirements is crucial for a successful DOHSA claim. At Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers, we can help you navigate these criteria, ensuring that all necessary documentation and evidence are properly gathered and presented.
Our experienced team will work tirelessly to prove that your case meets the legal standards set forth by DOHSA, maximizing your chances of receiving the compensation to which you are entitled.
What Compensation Is Available Under DOHSA?
Under the Death on the High Seas Act, the types of compensation that may be available includes economic damages such as:
- Medical costs
- Lost income
- Lost benefits/pensions
- Lost support and services
- Lost inheritance
- Funeral expenses
The compensation provided under DOHSA focuses on the financial contributions the deceased would have made to family members, rather than non-economic damages such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is committed to ensuring that you receive fair and just compensation for your loss, providing you with the financial stability needed to move forward.
Contact Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you have lost a loved one at sea, it is crucial to seek experienced legal assistance as soon as possible. Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers is here to support you through this challenging time, offering compassionate representation for your DOHSA claim.
Our team of dedicated Houston maritime injury attorneys understands the intricacies of DOHSA and is ready to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Contact Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation. We will review the details of your case, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with a clear understanding of your legal options.
