Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/18/2019 -- Matt Shaffer of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris has once again been recognized by Super Lawyers in the 2019 Texas Super Lawyers List. This honor is a result of his excellence in Maritime Litigation.

Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a patented multiphase selection process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with independent research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. Since Super Lawyers is intended to be used as an aid in selecting a lawyer, we limit the lawyer ratings to those who can be hired and retained by the public.

Matt Shaffer has helped thousands of injured maritime workers collect millions of dollars in compensation. If you or someone you love has been injured in a maritime accident, call Matt Shaffer of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris at 1-800-836-5830.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/16/2019 -- Matt Shaffer of SMSH Legal has been recognized once again by Best Lawyers in the 26th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America© 2020.

This is the 8th year in a row that Attorney Matt Shaffer has been recognized by Best Lawyers for his long-standing expertise in Admiralty and Maritime Law.

For over 33 years, Shaffer has helped thousands of maritime workers in cases throughout the nation, and has recovered hundreds of millions on their behalf.

We'd like to congratulate Mr. Shaffer for this outstanding achievement!

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/25/2018 -- A duck boat that was carrying tourists on Table Rock Lake in Branson, MO capsized and sank Thursday evening after it was hit with a thunderstorm during its navigation. 17 people, including children, died as a result of the accident. Seven of the 14 survivors were injured and taken to nearby hospitals. Two of them are being treated for critical injuries.

Officials believe the stormy weather is what contributed to the boat capsizing. Another boat on the lake during the time of the storm made it safely back to shore. The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the Branson area early Thursday evening. Winds were to recorded to have reached 60 mph that night. Video footage captured the duck boat struggling with large swells and taking on water.

An off-duty sheriff's deputy helped rescue people once the boat capsized. Several dive teams in the area also assisted with the effort. The National Transportation Safety Board arrived in Branson this morning to start the investigation.

Ride the Ducks in Branson states that this was the tour's only accident in more than 40 years of operation. Recreational boat tours are popular for families in the summertime, but unsafe boats and boat operators can pose a serious risk to passengers.

Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris has handled thousands of maritime injury cases including the Deepwater Horizon disaster and El Faro. Managing partner, Matthew D. Shaffer, recently recovered a seven figure settlement for a family injured in a lake boat tour after the operator struck an outcropping and family members were launched into the water. If you or a loved one were hurt in a boating or maritime accident, contact Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer, & Harris, L.L.P. at 1-800-836-5830 for a free consultation with one of our maritime lawyers today.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/07/2017 -- After rejecting the U.S. Attorney's $20,000 top offer to settle, Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris attorneys Jonathan S. Harris and Laura De La Cruz obtained a $2.9 million dollar judgment for Jose Acosta, an injured train locomotive engineer.

The defendant was the United States of America. A U.S. Army convoy truck stopped on the railroad tracks in Almagordo, New Mexico. The Union 2.9 Million in Trial WonPacific train Acosta was driving hit the rear of the army truck. Acosta's injuries required a back surgery and other medical care. Acosta claimed he was unable to return to work as a train engineer.

Acosta hired Jonathan S. Harris of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP to pursue a claim against the federal government for his damages. The case was filed under the Federal Tort Claims Act in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico. Attorney Jonathan S. Harris immediately conducted an investigation into the collision and secured statements from key eye-witnesses. Harris and his team also recruited experts to render opinions on all aspects of the case, including Acosta's economic losses and future medical needs.

Throughout the case, the defense team vigorously contested the army convoy driver caused the accident and also contested Acosta was hurt. The defense argued there were only scratches to the train and truck from the impact. The defense also relied on a biomechanical engineer who examined the weight of the vehicles, their speed, and other factors before concluding that forces from the impact could not cause injury to Acosta. To rebut the biomechanical analysis, Acosta's attorneys hired a forensic epidemiologist who showed Acosta's injuries could be explained by a three-step differential analysis that accounts for temporal relationships, alternative causes, and the variability of injury threshold levels.

Acosta's counsel, Jonathan Harris, conducted a series of focus groups to determine how best to present the case at trial. Harris and his co-counsel Laura De La Cruz also brought in a jury consultant to prepare Acosta for his day in court.

The case came to trial on April 18, 2017 in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Over the course of three days, from April 18- April 20, 2017 Jonathan S. Harris and Laura De La Cruz presented evidence from fourteen witnesses and over 1,500 pages of exhibits.

In a great legal victory, Judge Stephan M. Vidmar ruled in favor of Acosta and entered judgement against the United States of America for $2,917,240.38 plus post-judgment interest and costs.

Jonathan Harris says the most satisfying part of the award, aside from Acosta getting what he deserves, was proving the judge would make a substantial award. The U.S.A.'s attorney had been telling Harris during the two years it took to get to trial that the judge would never believe Mr. Acosta was injured in the accident.

Case No. 2:15-cv-00530-SMV-LAM
https://www.smslegal.com/injured-railroad-worker-wins-2-9-million-trial-federal-government/

Attorney Jonathan S. Harris has been practicing 20 years and is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Laura De La Cruz has been an associate at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris since 2015. For over 50 years, the attorneys of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP have represented the families of injured workers across the United States. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident, contact Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP at 800-282-2122 for a free case evaluation.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/09/2017 -- Attorney Matthew Shaffer was retained by the survivors of a fisherman who was lost at sea aboard the FV Destination. The young Arizona native was one of six crew members aboard the fishing vessel when it was reported missing on February 11, 2017. The United States Coast Guard promptly executed an extensive search and rescue mission, but the search was suspended after officials were unable to recover the Seattle-based vessel or its crew. It is presumed that the FV Destination and the fishermen on board were lost in the Bering Sea near St. George Island, Alaska. There are few clues left behind by the tragedy, and the crew's family members are left with many unanswered questions. Preliminary data points to possible adverse weather conditions, mechanical problems on the vessel, or poor loading decisions. Attorney Matthew Shaffer has launched a full legal investigation into what went wrong as part of his efforts to obtain justice for his client. "It is an honor to represent this family under the most unfortunate circumstances," says Shaffer. "The tragedy is a true shame for such a wonderful family and hardworking young man."

About Attorney Matthew Shaffer
Attorney Matthew Shaffer and the law firm of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer and Harris, LLP have spent decades fighting for maritime workers and their families nationwide. If you or a loved one have been injured or killed in a maritime accident, contact the attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer and Harris, LLP for a free legal consultation.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/17/2016 -- Attorney Matthew Shaffer obtained a $1 million dollar settlement for a family of passengers who were seriously injured when a commercial jet boat crashed into the shoreline. The Florida couple and their three minor children signed up for a recreational tour of Lake Fontana, North Carolina as part of their family vacation. During the tour, the poorly trained operator misjudged a turn and struck a rock outcropping on the shore. All five family members were thrown into open water, and the couple's 9 year old son suffered multiple fractures to his face and body. After two years of tense litigation, Attorney Matthew Shaffer negotiated a $1 million dollar settlement against the owner and operator of the jet boat tours.

Because businesses often hide behind a web of complicated financial structures, Attorney Matthew Shaffer used the law to investigate the tour operator and uncover his financial assets. These efforts enabled him to identify all responsible parties and select the most favorable venue for his clients. Testimony and records obtained in the case showed that the recreational boat tours were run in an unsafe and reckless matter. A lack of proper training and inadequate restraints on the aluminum jet boat were just some of the factors that put his clients at risk and ultimately led to their injuries. Perhaps the most disturbing detail of all was that the Captain fled the scene of the accident, and left the family stranded in the water following the collision.

In addition to establishing fault, Attorney Matthew Shaffer had to perform the difficult task of assessing the impact of the traumatic event on his clients. All five family members received medical treatment, but some of them required extensive and costly treatment for months. The youngest boy suffered the most critical injuries, requiring multiple surgeries and treatment by various specialists. Matthew Shaffer retained the help of experts and medical professionals to assign a value to the damages suffered by his clients. Among them, a life care planner was designated to perform an analysis of the young boy's future medical needs. Such experts and medical professionals are necessary to satisfy the requirements placed by courts and insurance companies in analyzing economic damages. In the end, the family's lawsuit settled for the full amount of the jet boat operator's liability insurance.

About Matthew Shaffer
Matthew Shaffer is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law. He has represented thousands of individuals injured in catastrophic events throughout the United States. If you or a loved one was injured in a serious accident, contact him today for a free case evaluation at 800-282-2122.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/03/2016 -- Deepwater Horizon was released nationwide today in theaters, more than six years after the explosion claimed the lives of 11 crew members and left an estimated 3.19 million barrels of oil leaking into the Gulf of Mexico. The movie is expected to chronicle the events that led up to and during the catastrophe in what is considered the worst oil disaster in U.S. history.

Lead Counsel Matthew Shaffer represented the family of crew member, Blair Manuel, who was killed in the explosion. "Hopefully, this film will accurately portray the decision making process that led up to this tragedy, as well as the horrific consequences the working men and women aboard the Deepwater Horizon faced as they struggled to survive the explosion and inferno," says Shaffer. "Unfortunately, one of our clients was among the eleven that did not survive." Mr. Manuel was employed as a senior drilling fluids specialist by MI-SWACO, which supplied materials to the Deepwater Horizon. He is survived by three daughters.

The fatal incident occurred the night of April 20, 2010, approximately 41 miles off the coast of Louisiana. At the time, the Deepwater Horizon, an oil rig owned and operated by Transocean, was being used to drill from the Macondo Prospect, an exploratory well owned by BP (British Petroleum.) It was in the process of completing its exploration when a surge of natural gas blasted through the well's cement seal, ultimately igniting the explosion. Subsequently, the rig capsized and sank two days later. About 1,000 of barrels of oil per day leaked from the well until it was finally plugged 87 days later on July 15, 2010.

The human and environmental significance of this impact prompted BP, Transocean and other governmental agencies to take immediate action in cleaning-up the spill. Their response effort involved a variety of methods including the use of dispersants to emulsify the oil, deployment of booms to corral portions of the slick, and manual labor. In all, an estimated 1,100 miles of shoreline was polluted.

In addition to Blair Manuel's family, SMSH Legal also represented workers from Transocean, Oceaneering and M-I SWACO who were involved in the Deepwater Horizon tragedy.

https://www.smslegal.com/smsh-legal-remembers-deepwater-horizon-client-in-wake-of-movie-release/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/09/2016 -- Matt Shaffer filed a lawsuit on behalf of his client injured in a maritime accident. The client was employed as a captain by The Dutra Group and was ordered to move a barge with the M/V Elbert Lewey push boat in adverse weather conditions. As the client underwent the operation, a wave picked up the stern of the M/V Elbert Lewey and slammed it down under the rake of the barge. The impact threw the client forward, causing him to sustain back and other various bodily injuries. Shaffer is claiming negligence on behalf of Skanksa Inc., Skanksa USA Inc., Nova Group and The Dutra Group for ordering the client to move barges in unreasonably dangerous weather conditions and for failing to provide sufficient equipment and manpower to execute the task at hand.

About Matt Shaffer
Mr. Shaffer is honored to represent this client and other maritime workers. SMSH attorneys have represented thousands of maritime workers nationwide and have collected hundreds of millions of dollars for their clients.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/09/2016 -- Matt Shaffer has filed a lawsuit on behalf of his client injured in a maritime accident. The client was employed by Bolivar Barge Cleaning Service, LLC and was working on the M/V Sonny Gates, a towing vessel, at the time of the incident. The client was taking a barge out of the fleet of another vessel's tow and was untying a four part headline when the Captain of the M/V Sonny Gates suddenly put the vessel in reverse without warning. This caused the line to swing around and catch the client's right leg and sever part of his ankle. Shaffer is claiming negligence on behalf of Bolivar Barge Cleaning Service and The Tug Sonny Gates, LLC for not providing a safe working environment and for failing to ensure proper communication between the Captain and the crew.

About Matt Shaffer
Mr. Shaffer is honored to represent this client and other maritime workers. SMSH attorneys have represented thousands of maritime workers nationwide and have collected hundreds of millions of dollars for their clients.

https://www.smslegal.com/attorney-matt-shaffer-filed-maritime-accident-lawsuit-injured-client/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/09/2016 -- Attorney Matthew Shaffer obtained a $1.25 million dollar judgement from a federal district court in Galveston, Texas for his client, a commercial fisherman. The 54-year-old worker from Palacios, Texas was tying lines on a commercial fishing boat when he became trapped in marsh wetlands. He injured his knees and legs trying to free himself, but his boat and Captain abandoned him in the wetlands. Attorney Matthew Shaffer filed suit on behalf of the worker against the vessel owner and employer, alleging negligence under the Jones Act and failure to provide maintenance and cure benefits. "This worker was literally abandoned by the boat and its owner," says Shaffer. "They left him injured and alone and failed to assist him in any form after he was injured. The employer has failed to pay for medical treatment or even pay for meager daily maintenance to keep a roof over our client's head and food in his belly. We are so pleased that the Court ruled in his favor. We will continue to use all our efforts to obtain justice for this deserving worker."

About Matthew Shaffer
Attorney Matthew Shaffer is honored to represent this fisherman and other maritime workers nationwide. The attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP have recovered millions of dollars for the families of injured workers for over 50 years.

If you have been injured in a serious accident, call 1-800-282-2122 to speak to an experienced attorney.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/24/2016 -- Matt Shaffer recently filed a lawsuit on behalf of his client injured in a maritime accident. The client was employed as a roustabout for Anadarko Petroleum Corporation and at the time of the incident, was working as a crewmember on a drilling ship that was owned and operated by Noble Drilling Services, Inc. The worker was thrown from an upper bunk that was not equipped with rails or other fall protection. The client sustained serious back injuries. Shaffer is claiming Anadarko and Noble Drilling were negligent in providing a safe work environment for their employees.

Mr. Shaffer is honored to represent this client and other maritime workers. SMSH attorneys have represented thousands of maritime workers nationwide and have collected hundreds of millions of dollars for their clients.

https://www.smslegal.com/matt-shaffer-filed-lawsuit-behalf-client-injured-maritime-accident/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/17/2016 -- SMSH attorneys, Matthew D. Shaffer and Laura De La Cruz, recently negotiated a confidential settlement for a vessel-based tankerman. The tankerman suffered severe head and neck injuries after a large ceiling shop fan fell and struck him while he was checking equipment in a barge pump room. Lead Counsel, Matt Shaffer, said, "We were able to prove that not only was the fan improperly mounted and that the vessel owner failed to utilize the manufacturers mounting kit, but we also established that the fan should have never been used in a marine or explosive environment." The client sought treatment for concussion symptoms and was ultimately diagnosed with a significant cervical injury. The client attempted to return to work after this major trauma, but ultimately, felt it was unsafe for both himself and his fellow crewmembers. "Our client made every effort to return to work , but at the end of the day, his injuries were too severe for him to continue. He has worked hard his entire life and was not ready to give-up on his life¹s work without a fight. We believe the settlement we negotiated on his behalf will go far in supporting him and his family for a long time," stated Shaffer.

About Matthew D. Shaffer
Matthew D. Shaffer is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law and has been named a Proctor in Admiralty by the Maritime Law Association of the United States of America. He has represented thousands of maritime workers who work on waters across the United States and offshore.

If you were or a loved one were injured or killed in a maritime accident, contact Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP today for a free case evaluation at 800-282-2122.

https://www.smslegal.com/smsh-settles-serious-maritime-injury-claim/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/07/2016 -- $1.1M Awarded to Worker in Trial for Injury on Dredge Ship

In a bench trial held in a New Orleans federal court, Attorney Matthew D. Shaffer obtained a $1.13M award for his client, a 48 year old father and husband from Fluker, Louisiana. The victory came after months of litigation stemming from a piece of equipment falling on Rodney Watson. His employer, Weeks Marine, Inc., refused to offer any money to settle the claim before trial.

Rodney Watson was a cook in the vessel's galley when a 400 lb steam table fell over and pinned him. After he was hurt, Mr. Watson tried to do the right thing. He reported the injury and followed his doctor's orders. But before he was released to return to work, Weeks Marine stopped paying for his medical treatment and terminated him. Mr. Watson then sought the help of Matthew D. Shaffer to recover the benefits owed to him by law. Weeks Marine responded by suing Mr. Watson.

At trial, Judge Carl J. Barbier found that Weeks Marine was negligent and its vessel unseaworthy. The steam table was inadequately secured in the galley, and Weeks Marine failed to have a policy or practice for its inspection. Judge Barbier also found that Weeks Marine arbitrarily terminated Mr. Watson's maintenance and cure benefits. As a result, Mr. Watson was awarded $1,139,828, including $100,000 in punitive damages for willful failure to pay maintenance and cure and $50,000 in attorney's fees. Attorneys Paul M. Sterbcow and Jessica L. Ibert of Lewis, Kullman, Sterbcow & Abramson ably assisted in representing Mr. Watson at trial.

"It was such an honor to represent Mr. Watson in his quest for justice," said Matthew D. Shaffer. "He has done all the right things his entire life – he worked every day since the 9th grade to support his family, is beloved by co-workers and even though he worked for Weeks Marine for years and received numerous promotions, he was treated unfairly at every turn. We will continue to fight for Mr. Watson and all workers when their just compensation is delayed or denied."

About Matthew D. Shaffer
Matthew D. Shaffer is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law. He has represented thousands of maritime workers who work on waters across the United States and offshore. If you were or a loved one were injured or killed in a maritime accident, contact Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP today for a free case evaluation at 1-800-282-2122.

https://www.smslegal.com/1-1m-awarded-worker-trial-injury-dredge-ship/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/27/2016 -- Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris recently settled the claim of a foreign seaman working for the Caribbean subsidiary of a Texas company for a confidential amount.

In a tragic work accident over foreign waters, the young man's leg became entangled in a mooring line and was violently amputated below the knee. The attorneys of SMSH were able to establish that the captain's actions in prematurely reversing the boat before the worker had cleared the area was the cause of the accident. SMSH partner Matthew Shaffer remarked, "We are very proud of the efforts we made on behalf of this young worker. We had to deal with the law of several different countries, make arrangements to bring our client to the United States and secure his medical treatment, hire experts to determine his needs for the remainder of his life, and negotiate a settlement that would make a real difference for this man and his family going forward."

The large, lump-sum was reached at a mere six months after the incident. Mr. Shaffer went on to state that, "but for our efforts, this young man would have suffered the fate of so many workers that toil on the vessels flying flags of convenience. Needless to say we are quite proud of the team effort that resulted in this outstanding settlement."

About SMSH
The attorneys of SMSH have over 120 years of experience and have collected hundreds of millions of dollars representing injured American and foreign maritime workers in the United States and abroad.

https://www.smslegal.com/amputation-case/.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/17/2015 -- A U.S. District Court extended the deadline to file all claims related to the sinking of S.S. El Faro by 90 days. This extension gives the family members of the victims until February 16, 2016 to evaluate and file their claims.

All 33 crew members on board El Faro died when the 40-year-old cargo ship sank east of the Bahamas on October 2. On its final voyage to Puerto Rico, the vessel lost propulsion and started retaining water after it encountered Category 4 Hurricane Joaquin.

Failure to comply with the February 19, 2016 deadline may result in a claim being defaulted or barred. Maritime attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP (SMSH) are representing the family members of Sylvester C. Crawford, a 40-year-old father who was a crew member aboard El Faro.

"It is important that the family members of these crew members follow the strict deadline as to not forfeit their right to a claim on behalf of their loved ones," said Matthew D. Shaffer, SMSH partner and maritime attorney.

Approximately one month after the tragedy, Tote Maritime, the ship's owner and employer of the crew members, filed a complaint to limit its liability for the losses stemming from the tragedy. Tote Maritime seeks to cap its liability at no more than approximately $15 million, a value based on the ship's tonnage. When the Limitation of Liability Complaint was filed, the courts originally ordered all claims for compensation related to the accident to be filed by December 21.

It is possible, however, to defeat a Limitation of Liability Complaint. The attorneys at SMSH beat a Limitation of Liability complaint filed by a shipowner on December 15. In this case, SMSH represents the family of an 8-year-old boy who sustained life threatening injuries during a recreational jet boat tour. The shipowner tried to limit its liability for losses to the value of the jet boat. SMSH fought to defeat this complaint – and won. Now, the shipowner will face the family in state court without the protection of the Limitation of Liability Complaint.

About Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP
Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP has represented individuals like the Crawford family for over 50 years across the United States. Its attorneys have over 100 years of combined trial experience in holding employers and shipowners responsible for serious maritime accidents and deaths.

Family members affected by the El Faro tragedy are strongly advised to contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss their legal rights in light of the court's upcoming deadline to file claims. If you or a loved one was injured in a maritime or offshore accident, call 800-282-2122 today to speak to an attorney at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP for a free, confidential consultation. Legal assistance is available both in English and Spanish (Espanol).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/11/2015 -- On September 29, 2015, the S.S. El Faro set sail from Jacksonville, Fl. in a final voyage that ended in the death of all 33 crew members. Anticipating costly litigation from the families affected by this tragedy, the ship's owner, Tote Maritime, filed a Limitation of Liability complaint with a federal court in Florida.

Maritime attorney Matthew D. Shaffer has tried and defeated similar limitation complaints filed by shipowners. He explains what Tote Maritime's limitation complaint means and why it will likely fail.

1.What is a limitation of liability action?
There is a federal law in the United States that allows a shipowner to cap its liability for losses stemming from a maritime accident. This law allows a shipowner to limit its liability to the value of the vessel and its freight. To seek the benefits of the limitation act, a shipowner files a complaint in a federal district court and declares a value for the vessel. Then, the shipowner, must deposit an amount equal to that value with the court.

Following the sinking of El Faro, Tote Maritime filed a limitation of liability complaint under this law with the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

2.What is the value of the S.S. El Faro?
In the pleadings it filed with the court, Tote Maritime submitted an Ad Interim Stipulation of value, which set aside $15,309,003.50 as a security deposit for claims related to the El Faro tragedy. The value was based on the vessel's freight and a $420 per gross registered ton fund for death claims.

3. Is there a way to stop Tote Maritime from limiting its liability to that amount?
Yes. Our firm, Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris (SMSH), has successfully stopped shipowners from hiding behind this law to avoid responsibility in comparable cases. If it can be shown that a shipowner had previous knowledge of the negligent conditions or actions that caused a victim to suffer losses, a shipowner cannot use this law to limit its liability for that claim. A shipowner's limitation of liability complaint is a proceeding that can be tried before a court in admiralty.

Our attorneys are some of the few to successfully defeat limitation of liability actions in trial. In fact, our team at SMSH collected $17.5 million on a case where the shipowner attempted to limit its liability to a mere $45,000. In the El Faro case, we believe there is enough evidence to prove that Tote Maritime knew of the ship's unseaworthy conditions and negligent actions that resulted in the death of all 33 crew members.

3. What does Tote Maritime's limitation action mean for the families of the crew members aboard El Faro?
A lot of misinformation has been spread on this issue. Tote's limitation complaint does not mean that the families of crewmembers are prohibited from seeking compensation for their losses. It does not mean that these families' claims have been blocked or frozen – regardless of whether they have already been filed with a court or not.

It does mean, however, that all claims for loss, damage, injury, or death related to the sinking of El Faro must be filed by December 21, 2015 with the clerk of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida in Jacksonville. If a claimant seeks to contest Tote Maritime's right to limit its liability to a set amount, the claimant must also file and serve an answer to Tote's limitation of liability complaint by that date.

4. How long do I have to file a claim?
Pursuant to the court's order, all claims must be filed and served to the attorneys for Tote Maritime by December 21, 2015. There are additional requirements that must be followed as detailed in the court's order.

5. Do I need to have an attorney to file a claim?
Although a claimant is not required to hire an attorney in this process, it is highly recommended that anyone wishing to pursue a claim contact an attorney as soon as possible to assist them in this litigation.

6. What happens if I don't file a claim by that deadline?
According to the court's order, failure to comply with this strict deadline will result in a claim being defaulted, barred, or dismissed. Courts are reluctant to excuse the late filing of claims in limitation of liability proceedings – if at all. If a claim is not filed in accordance with the court's order, there will not be a second chance or a different venue to file.

7. If I am interested in filing a claim, what should I do next?
You should contact an experienced maritime attorney as soon as possible due to the looming deadline. Selecting an attorney can be overwhelming, for a list of questions to a prospective attorney, you should visit our previous blog.

About Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP
Our lawyers at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris have been helping victims of maritime and personal injury accidents for the past 50 years. Combined, our attorneys have more than 100 years of trial experience in maritime, auto and industrial accidents.

Family members affected by the El Faro tragedy are strongly advised to contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss their legal rights in light of the court's upcoming deadline to file claims. If you or a loved one was injured in a maritime or offshore accident, call 1-800-282-2122 today to speak to an attorney at SMSH for a free, confidential consultation. Legal assistance is available both in English and Spanish (Espanol).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/05/2015 -- The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida has ordered all persons asserting claims related to the sinking of the S.S. El Faro to file their respective claims with that court by December 21, 2015. Failure to comply with the strict deadline may result in a claim being defaulted or barred.

The 40-year-old cargo ship went missing amidst the forces of Hurricane Joaquin in its final voyage to Puerto Rice on October 2. All 33 of the ship's crewmembers lost their lives when El Faro lost propulsion and sunk east of the Bahamas. Tote Maritime, who owned the ship and employed its crew, subsequently filed a complaint to limit its liability for the losses stemming from this tragedy. Tote Maritime seeks to cap its liability at no more than approximately $15 million dollars, a value based on the ship's tonnage. Today's court order requires all claims for compensation related to the El Faro disaster to be filed by December 21, 2015.

Sylvester C. Crawford, Jr., a 40 year old father from Lawrenceville, Georgia, was among the 33 crewmembers that perished aboard the S.S. El Faro. The Seafarers International Union (SIU) member was working his first hitch as a QMed aboard the ship when it sailed into the path of Hurricane Joaquin. Crawford's family recently retained the attorneys of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP to represent them in a legal claim against Tote Maritime for their loss.

"We are honored to represent the Crawford family as they seek justice for their beloved Sylvester," said Matthew D. Shaffer, a maritime attorney and managing partner of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris.

Although the crew members' families are still mourning the unexpected loss of their loved ones, the legal battle over the sinking of El Faro has already begun with full force.

"It is shameful that Tote Maritime has initiated litigation in a venue far from their home seeking to limit its responsibility to these families to pennies on the dollar, while at the same time seeking the full measure of reimbursement for the loss of its ship," said Matthew Shaffer. "Such actions are doomed for failure but will succeed in costing the survivors time and money as they look for answers in this tragedy."

About Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP
Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP has represented individuals like the Crawford family for over 50 years across the United States. Its attorneys have over 100 years of combined trial experience in holding employers and shipowners responsible for serious maritime accidents and deaths.

Family members affected by the El Faro tragedy are strongly advised to contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss their legal rights in light of the court's upcoming deadline to file claims. If you or a loved one was injured in a maritime or offshore accident, call 800-282-2122 today to speak to an attorney at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP for a free, confidential consultation. Legal assistance is available both in English and Spanish (Espanol).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/16/2015 -- Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris' (SMSH) attorneys Arthur Schechter and Cynthia Huerta along with the Weycer Law Firm were retained by a 29-year-old wife and mother, Laura, who was raped while heavily sedated at Ben Taub Hospital by a former doctor.

Laura, whose last name has been withheld to protect her identity, was admitted to the hospital in November 2013 for an acute asthma attack. She alleges a doctor entered her room multiple times and sexually assaulted her. Although sedated, she pressed the nurse's call button numerous times, but no one came to help her. The following morning, a nurse confirmed that the call button was not working.

The Houston Police Department was contacted and a rape kit sample was collected.

On October 12, almost two years after the attack, police charged Dr. Shafeeq Sheikh, now former Baylor College of Medicine employee, with sexual assault. According to court records, DNA evidence could not exclude him and a surveillance video showed he accessed Laura's floor with his hospital ID 12 times that night.

Huerta, a Trial Attorney at SMSH, filed a complaint on Laura's behalf against Sheikh with the Texas Board of Medical Examiner. His license has been temporarily suspended.

Arthur Schechter, founding partner of SMSH, applauds Laura's bravery for sharing her story as it is potentially saving other victims.

"A hospital is supposed to be a safe haven for patients to receive medical attention. Dr. Sheikh is a predator of the worst kind, using his medical credentials to stalk our client and his power to select his victims," Schechter said. "Our team is working diligently to ensure Dr. Sheikh cannot harm anyone else and that Laura and her family receives the closure they deserve."

He urges any other witnesses or victims of Sheikh to come forward to help prosecute the civil case by contacting his office at 800-282-2122.

About Arthur Schechter
Arthur Schechter has helped thousands of clients since he began practicing law in 1964. He is a founding partner of SMSH, serving as senior counsel and litigator for personal injury claims. Schechter is also a former U.S. Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.

In his years in practice, he has distinguished himself both as an outstanding attorney and an active figure in the Houston community. He serves on the boards of several organizations, including S.E.A.R.C.H. Service to the Homeless, the Houston Area Parkinson's Center, AIDS Foundation Houston, William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity.

His dedication to helping accident victims has earned him an impressive success record in the courtroom. His clients have named boats, businesses and even their children after him!

Schechter has been named a Texas Super Lawyer every year since 2003 -- that's every single year the award has been in existence.

About Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris
The personal injury attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris have spent decades helping victims of all types of accidents. Their attorneys have more than 100 years of combined trial experience in maritime, auto and industrial accidents.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/09/2015 -- All four partners at Houston personal injury law firm Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris have been named Texas Super Lawyers for 2015.

Matthew Shaffer, Dennis McElwee, Jonathan Harris and Arthur Schechter were among only 5% of Texas attorneys who are selected for inclusion in the Super Lawyer list. Attorneys selected for the list are evaluated in a patented, multi-phase process based on formal nominations by other attorneys, independent research, evaluations and peer reviews.

The criteria used to choose who will be named to the list include:

- Honors/Awards
- Case results
- Experience
- Professional accomplishments, activities and associations
- Peer recognition
- Pro bono work and community service
- Educational accomplishments
- Scholarly lectures and publications
- Licenses and certifications

Matthew Shaffer

Matthew Shaffer is the managing partner of SMSH. As a board certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer, he devotes his practice to maritime and Jones Act claims, as well as other personal injury cases.

He has represented clients in some of the worst maritime disasters, including the 2010 Deepwater Horizon explosion. His career has included such successes as the largest recorded single-victim Jones Act settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury.

Most recently, he negotiated a $2.5 million settlement in just 60 days on behalf of the young daughter of a dredge worker who killed in a dredging accident in December 2014. The settlement will ensure that the 4-year-old is financial taken care of for the rest of her life.

Mr. Shaffer has been named a Super Lawyer every year since 2005.

Dennis McElwee

For more than two decades, SMSH partner Dennis McElwee has dedicated his practice to defending the rights of injured maritime workers. He makes it his personal mission to stay up-to-date on court rulings that affect seamen and their daily living expenses because he knows the difference these rulings can make in his clients' lives.

While his practice focuses on maritime claims from across the nation and around the world, including Jones Act claims, general maritime law cases, and maritime piracy issues, he also handles general personal injury cases and enjoys a high rate of success on his clients' behalf.

He has handled maritime claims related to highly publicized events, including representing crewmembers who were aboard the Maersk Alabama when it was hijacked by Somali pirates off the African coast in 2009.

Mr. McElwee is a former instructor at the Southeast Admiralty Law Institute and has published several scholarly works on maritime law. He has received the Super Lawyer honor every year since 2011.

Jonathan Harris

Before becoming a partner at SMSH, Jonathan Harris worked for years defending insurance companies and large corporations. Today, he uses this experience to advocate for the rights of accident victims and uses his unique perspective from the other side of the aisle to build strong cases for his clients.

Mr. Harris is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law and focuses on auto and trucking accident claims, as well as other types of personal injury cases.

One of his recent case filings involves premises liability law. A mother and her 2-year-old daughter were shopping in a Houston MetroPCS store when a top-heavy cell phone display, which was not properly secured, fell on the toddler.

The girl's lung collapsed and she required a tracheostomy to create an opening in her neck so she could breathe. Mr. Harris filed a claim in Harris County District Court on behalf of the mother and daughter.

Mr. Harris also received the Super Lawyer honor in 2011 and was a named a Texas Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2007-2010.

Arthur Schechter

Arthur Schechter has helped thousands of clients since he began practicing law in 1964. He is a founding partner of SMSH, serving as senior counsel and litigator for personal injury claims. Mr. Schechter is also a former U.S. Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.

In his years in practice, he has distinguished himself both as an outstanding attorney and an active figure in the Houston community. He serves on the boards of several organizations, including S.E.A.R.C.H. Service to the Homeless, the Houston Area Parkinson's Center, AIDS Foundation Houston, William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity.

His dedication to helping accident victims has earned him an impressive success record in the courtroom. His clients have named boats, businesses and even their children after him!

Mr. Schechter has been named a Texas Super Lawyer every year since 2003 -- that's every single year the award has been in existence.

If you were injured in an accident, call 1-800-282-2122 today to schedule a free case evaluation with the personal injury attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/27/2015 -- A body found Aug. 6 in the Mississippi River has been identified as a man who has been missing since a barge capsized last year.

The state medical examiner confirmed the man was identified as Juan Nieves, who died in April 2014 when the barge overturned about 35 miles upstream from where his body was found.

Two men went missing when the vessel turned over. The body of Nicolas Perez Hernandez was found 17 days after the accident about 10 miles downstream.

The accident occurred on the Mississippi River while the barge was unloading at a shipping terminal near Blytheville that is owned by Houston-based Kinder Morgan. According to reports, two steel coils rolled to the shore ward side of the vessel, which caused it to list. About 20 more coils followed, causing the barge to overturn.

The incident is indicative of insufficient safety measures for workers, according to maritime lawyer Dennis McElwee.

McElwee, a partner of maritime law firm Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, has represented injured workers from across the United States and around the world. He represented two Kinder Morgan employees after a vessel capsized in the Houston Ship Channel.

"River barges can hold just as many dangers for workers as a vessel that's 100 miles offshore," McElwee said. "The owners of vessels and shipping terminals, as well as the employers who hire port and vessel workers, are legally and morally obligated to make safety a priority, ensure workers are well-trained and operate vessels that are properly equipped for the tasks at hand."

McElwee added that U.S. maritime laws protect the rights of injured workers and their families to receive fair and reasonable compensation when these companies fail to meet the proper safety standards.

About Shaffer & Harris
The personal injury attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris have spent decades helping victims of all types of accidents. Their attorneys have more than 100 years of combined trial experience in maritime, auto and industrial accidents.

If you are a seaman, offshore worker, or port worker who was injured as a result of negligence, call 800-282-2122 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a maritime injury attorney at SMSH. Legal assistance is available both in English and Spanish (Espanol).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/18/2015 -- We are proud to announce that Matthew Shaffer, partner of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, was recently selected for inclusion in the 22nd Edition of The Best Lawyers in America©. Shaffer was chosen for the practice area of Admiralty and Maritime Law.

Published since 1983, The Best Lawyers in America© is the oldest peer-review publication in the legal profession. The list of attorneys honored in the publication is compiled through a process of nominations and extensive peer-review surveys in which 55,000 leading attorneys cast more than 6.7 million votes on the legal abilities of the nominees in their practice areas.

Matthew Shaffer began his legal career representing large corporate clients more than 25 years ago. In 1992, he joined Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P. to help working men and women recover damages for on-the-job injuries.

As a managing partner of the firm, Shaffer has represented thousands of clients across the United States. Most recently, he successfully settled the largest single victim Jones Act case of record for a client with a brain injury. He has played a significant role in litigation related to several major maritime disasters, including the Deepwater Horizon explosion.

Shaffer is among the small percentage of Texas attorneys who are certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Trial law. He has previously served as chairman of The Texas State Bar's Grievance Committee for District 4C. He's also licensed to practice law in Colorado. Every year since 2006, Shaffer has been named a Texas Super Lawyer by Texas Monthly Magazine, an honor bestowed on only five percent of the state's attorneys. He has also been recognized by H Texas magazine as one of Houston's Top Lawyers for the People.

About Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris
The personal injury attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris have been helping victims for the past 50 years. Combined, their attorneys have more than 100 years of trial experience in maritime, auto and industrial accidents.

If you or a loved one was injured as the result of negligence, call 800-282-2122 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Legal assistance is available both in English and Spanish (Espanol).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/05/2015 -- In a continuing effort to better serve victims of personal injuries, the Houston car accident attorneys at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris have recently updated their website to provide more information and an improved user experience to the public.

"One of the most common accidents any of us will ever experience is a car accident," said Jonathan Harris, a partner at the firm and a Houston auto accident lawyer.. "For most people, getting in an accident is a very disruptive experience that leaves you confused about how to get help. We wanted an informative, user-friendly website for our clients and accident victims."

Under the website's auto accident section, users can easily browse through information specific to the most common types of motor vehicle accidents, including:

- Car Accidents
- Trucking/18 Wheeler Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Bus Accidents

Each of these sections has its own internal menu to help users easily navigate to related pages and to find the right information quickly.

Car Accident Information

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 13,675 serious injury crashes and 3,534 fatalities in 2014 alone. While accidents can happen because of bad road conditions or defective car parts, the most common cause is driver negligence.

The updated car accident section on SMSH's website offers information about car accident claims, SUV rollover accidents, distracted driving accidents, and more.

Trucking/18 Wheeler Accident Information

When a passenger car is involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, the smaller vehicle is at a huge disadvantage. The large size and weight of the semi can cause serious damage to a smaller vehicle and critical injuries to its occupants.

On the SMSH website, find out the most common causes of truck accidents; how truck accident claims differ from car accident claims; and why truck driver fatigue is often a factor in 18 wheeler crashes.

Motorcycle Accident Information

Motorcyclists often have a bad reputation as risk-takers and reckless drivers. In a large number of accidents involving a motorcycle, however, it is actually the other driver who is at fault for the crash.

Motorcyclists can be critically injured when another driver failed to see the rider, ran a red light, or changed lanes without looking. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to be killed in an accident than those in a passenger vehicle.

Visit the SMSH website to find out the most common injuries in Houston motorcycle accidents; why this type of claim is different from a car accident claim; and what you should do after an accident.

Bus Accident Information

Buses are big, bulky vehicles that are often driven by inexperienced or improperly trained operators. These vehicles often don't have common safety features such as seatbelts and tend to rollover when involved in an accident.

There are many different types of buses, including school buses, public transportation, and private charter buses. The type of bus involved in an accident will determine the steps needed for a successful bus accident claim.

Find out how school bus accidents are different; who is liable in a bus crash; and answers to commonly asked questions about bus accidents on SMSH's website.

If you have been injured in a Houston auto accident, call 800-282-2122 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris. Legal assistance is available both in English and Spanish (Espanol).

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/17/2015 -- Personal injury lawyer Jonathan Harris, along with Adam J. Rosenfeld, won a $1,192,000 jury verdict against Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, L.P. on behalf of their injured client, Kenneth Thorns. Prior to the trial, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, L.P. offered $250,000 to settle the case. Thorns rejected the settlement offer.

Thorns' lawsuit arose from a defective condition at the Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, L.P.'s Cedar Bayou Plant in Baytown, Texas. Thorns worked for a third-party contractor who was assigned to perform rail car switching services at the plant. While working at the plant, Thorns stepped on a metal grating in the cement walkway that covers a drain. The grating collapsed and Thorns' left foot fell into the drain.

"Workers like Kenneth rely on the walking surfaces to be safe," Harris said. "Chevron Phillips Chemical Company is responsible for maintaining the walking surfaces. The drain grate was not properly secured and an inspection by Chevron Phillips Chemical Company would have identified the problem before Kenneth was hurt. It shouldn't take someone getting hurt before basic preventative maintenance at our communities' chemical plants gets done."

The lawsuit alleged Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, L.P. allowed a premise defect that should have been discovered and repaired to exist on its property. Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, L.P. told the jury this was the first problem with the drain in 30 years and it had no reason to know it was dangerous.

Thorns tore two ligaments in his left knee. He had a surgery to rebuild his anterior cruciate ligament that successfully restored the left knee's stability. He also had part of his lateral meniscus removed. His treating physician testified Thorns should avoid a job that requires repetitive use of his left knee. Chevron Phillips Chemical argued Thorns was given only a 1% impairment rating by his treating doctor and he could return to work as a rail car switchman.

Thorns, from La Porte, Texas, described the verdict and Harris as a blessing for his family.

"This injury had such a huge effect on my life as I was scared I would never be able to provide for my family again," Thorns said. "This verdict has provided a sense of relief for me and my family. Jonathan was a blessing and a friend who stood beside me both inside and outside court. "

The jury award of $1,192,000 included damages for past medical bills, lost earnings, physical impairment and pain and suffering. With interest and costs, the judgment will be over $1,290,000.

"I could not be happier that we were able to obtain this excellent result for Kenneth," Harris said. "It's truly rewarding when all the hard work of preparing a case for trial gets the client the desired result."

About Jonathan Harris
As a partner of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, Jonathan Harris brings both a strong work ethic and the vital experience of working on both sides of the docket to each of his cases. He enjoys using sophisticated technology to make strong legal arguments in court, and his impressive legal record tells the story of his success.

Mr. Harris spent years working as a defense attorney for insurance companies and large corporations. His experience gives him a unique perspective and the ability to build strong cases when taking on these entities on behalf of injured clients. Mr. Harris specializes in auto, trucking and work injury claims. He is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, which is a qualification obtained by less than 3% of the lawyers in Texas. Mr. Harris has been honored as a Super Lawyer by Texas Monthly's Super Lawyers Magazine. He's also been named one of H Texas magazine's Top Lawyers for the People and one of Houstonia magazine's Top Lawyers.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/05/2015 -- Railroad injury lawyer Cynthia Huerta, along with Reed Morgan and David Glenn, recently won a $1.86 million jury verdict on behalf of a BNSF Railway Company employee who suffered serious knee and back injuries in an Oklahoma rail yard.

For 36 years, Gary Epple, of Granbury, Texas, worked for BNSF Railway Company, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. On Sept. 24, 2010, BNSF instructed Epple, a railroad conductor, to make a stop in a rail yard located in Purcell, Oklahoma. The Purcell rail yard had no overhead lighting.

Epple exited the train and used a company issued lantern to perform his conductor duties in the dark and in the rain. When Epple was done, he walked almost a mile to reach the head of his train when he came upon a pile of broken ties and debris in the walkway.

"He came to a mound of debris blocking the walk path, which was too wide to step over," Huerta said. "He did what any sensible person in the same position would have done – he walked around the debris. He stepped onto an adjacent bridge, and then slipped, twisted his back and landed on his right knee."

Three months later, BNSF Railway Co., terminated Epple's employment. Epple was 58 at the time the accident occurred. He required a total knee replacement and three separate back surgeries as a result of his injuries.

Huerta filed a claim on Gary Epple's behalf under the Federal Employers' Liability Act, commonly known as FELA, which requires railroads to maintain a safe working environment. The lawsuit alleged that BNSF Railway Company was negligent by failing to keep a culvert clear for water flow and failing to clean up debris in the rail yard in Purcell, Oklahoma.

"I'm proud that our trial team obtained a win for Mr. Epple and his family against BNSF Railway Co.," Huerta said. "It took a long time, lots of work, creativity and perseverance."

The jury award of $1,860,969 included damages for lost earnings, physical impairment, and pain and suffering.

About Cynthia Huerta
Cynthia Huerta is an attorney at Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, a Houston-based law firm that represents injured workers in Texas and across the nation.

Huerta's practice is devoted to personal injury litigation, including railroad accidents, maritime accidents, motor vehicle accidents, premises liability claims, product liability claims, and other workplace accidents.

Once a defense attorney for insurance and trucking companies, in 2012 she began fighting on behalf of accident victims. Her experience and knowledge of insurance company practices and defense strategies is an invaluable asset to her clients.

This experience, combined with a commitment to treating every client with respect, listening to their needs, and always keeping them informed of their cases' progress, has been a winning combination both for client satisfaction and case results.

Huerta was voted a Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyers Magazine from 2008 to 2014, and was voted one of Houston's Top Lawyers in 2013 and 2014. She is fluent in Spanish.

For more information about Houston personal injury law firm of Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris or to schedule a free consultation with Cynthia Huerta, call 800-282-2122 today.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Houston, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/28/2015 -- The 4-year-old daughter of a crane operator who was tragically killed in a December 2014 dredging accident will be taken care of for the rest of her life as a result of attorney Matthew Shaffer's negotiation of a $2.5 million dollar settlement in a mere 60 days.

The single father from Newport News, Va., was working for Norfolk Dredging aboard a crane barge in Delaware when the barge capsized on Dec. 2 and 3 crewmembers were thrown into the Christina River. Two other workers were rescued immediately, but the single father remained trapped in the crane operating station and drowned. His body was recovered nearly 24 hours later.

"The Norfolk Dredging crew was performing routine dredging operations in the Port of Wilmington in Delaware," Shaffer said. "When the dredge barge is being moved, the standing order is for the cutting dredge to cease cutting operations. Due to miscommunications and a failure to follow proper procedure in this occasion, the crane operator was pulling up the anchors when the cutting apparatus started, which caused the crane barge to flip over. He was trapped in the crane and couldn't escape."

Attorney Shaffer, managing partner of the maritime law firm Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, filed a claim against the worker's employer, Norfolk Dredging, under the Jones Act and the Death on the High Seas Act.

Of the $2.5 million settlement, the majority of the funds will go into a trust to provide financial security for the future of the 4-year old daughter left behind by the worker's untimely death, Shaffer said.

"We moved quickly and successfully reached a settlement within 60 days of being retained by the worker's family," Shaffer said. "Cases like these usually takes 2 to 3 years to resolve, and sometimes even longer. However, I think the company recognized that there was indisputable negligence and there was also a clear appreciation for this young man. He was such a hard worker, and they knew him and knew the family and wanted to get it resolved as quickly as they could."

The man had been employed by Norfolk Dredging for more than 8 years and was also studying business at the University of Phoenix, according to his LinkedIn profile.

"You can tell from his writings that he was a great young man, and taking care of his daughter was the most important thing in his life," Shaffer said.

In his LinkedIn profile, the worker had written, "Working comes very natural to me. I've always believed that when you want something, you just have to go after it and give it your all. In addition the fact that I'm a single father just makes me strive that much more to be the best I can be, at anything I do. Not only am I a hard worker, I'm a role model for my daughter."

His daughter is now being cared for by the man's grandmother.

"It was an honor to represent this family and to make sure this little girl will be taken care of, that she'll be housed, educated and supported for the rest of her life so that her father didn't die in vain," Shaffer said.

About Matthew Shaffer
Matthew Shaffer is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law. He has represented thousands of maritime workers who work on waters across the United States and offshore. If you were injured or a loved one killed in a maritime or offshore accident, contact him today for a free case evaluation at 1-800-282-2122.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm