What is the Jones Act?

The Jones Act is a federal statute found at 46 United States Code 688 that was passed by the United States Congress that allows an injured employee to sue their employer for ALL the damages that the employee has suffered as a result of an injury. If the Jones Act applies to you, you will not be limited to collecting workers’ compensation benefits which consist of only medical payments and a small portion of your wages for a fixed period of time. Instead, if the Jones Act applies and your injury was caused by the negligence of your employer or a co-employee, you may then collect ALL of the damages that you have suffered from your employer. These damages include money for pain and suffering, money for past and future medical expenses from a doctor that you choose, money for past and future loss of wages and fringe benefits that you may have suffered due to your injury, and any other money damages that you have suffered. Our Maritime lawyers can explain these damages to you and help you understand the Jones Act. It may give you extensive rights since you were working at a dangerous job on the water. In order for the Jones Act to apply to you, you must qualify as a ‘seaman’ which means several things. To be a seaman, you must satisfy conditions at the time of your accident, such as being more or less permanently assigned to a vessel or fleet of vessels in navigation The ‘more or less permanent’ assignment has been interpreted to generally mean that you have spent at least 30% of your time on ‘vessels’. So even if 65% to 70% of your time was spent off of the water on land or elsewhere, you may still satisfy the ‘permanent assignment’ requirement. Even if your accident occurred on land, you may still file a claim under the Jones Act if you were assigned to a vessel but only working on land temporarily.

Why Choose The Stephens Law Firm for Your Houston Work Injury Case?

When you’ve been injured on the job, especially in high-risk industries like refineries, offshore maritime operations, oil and gas, or construction, you need a lawyer who understands the complexities of your case. Here’s why The Stephens Law Firm is the trusted choice for work injury victims in Houston: Decades of Experience: Joe Stephens is a double board-certified attorney with over 30 years of experience handling workplace injury cases, including those governed by the Jones Act, federal maritime laws, and Texas labor laws. Industry Knowledge: With a background in the oil fields, Joe Stephens knows the challenges workers face and has successfully fought against major corporations to secure fair compensation. Proven Track Record: From refinery explosions to offshore rig accidents, Joe Stephens has won multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for injured workers and their families. Comprehensive Support: Whether your case involves employer negligence, unsafe working conditions, or defective equipment, we provide personalized attention and aggressive representation. No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. At The Stephens Law Firm, we are committed to helping Houston workers recover the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on your feet.

Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer

Joe is one of the few Texas lawyers that is double board certified.

“No Legal Fees Until Joe Wins Your Case”

Content Reviewed by: Joe Stephens

Last Updated: June 24, 2025

Table of Contents

Why Choose Stephens Law Firm for Your Houston Slip and Fall Injury Case
Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents in Houston
Hazards That Lead to Slip and Fall Accidents in Houston
How Texas Premises Liability Laws Affect Your Slip and Fall Case
Common Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents
The Benefits of Hiring a Slip and Fall Attorney in Houston
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident in Houston
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Cases in Houston
Contact a Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer Today For a Free Consultation

Slip and fall accidents may sound trivial, but they are often more serious and potentially life-changing than people realize. Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths in the U.S., with over 46,000 fatalities in 2022 alone, according to the National Safety Council.

If you’ve been in a slip and fall that migqht have involved negligence, it’s crucial to take legal action. A skilled Houston slip and fall lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Stephens Law Firm for Your Houston Slip and Fall Injury Case

When you’ve been injured in a fall, you need a lawyer with real experience and results. Joe Stephens is a double board-certified personal injury attorney with over 40 years of success fighting for injured Texans, handling, negotiating, and trying hundreds of cases. At The Stephens Law Firm, you get personal, one-on-one representation backed by a reputation for aggressive, fair negotiation and proven outcomes.

Recognized Excellence in Personal Injury Law

These awards and honors reflect Joe Stephens’ strong professional reputation and the respect earned from peers and learning legal organizations across Texas.

Won Thompson Reuters’s Super Lawyers from 2008-2025
Won Thompson Reuters’s Super Lawyers from 2008-2025
Won Best Attorney in Texas from 2012-2021, and 2023-2025 from Texas Monthly Magazine.
Joe Stephens has been a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association since 1985.
Selected as a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum in 2008
Ranked Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys for the years 2023-2024
Recognized as a Top 100 High Stakes Litigator from 2022-2025

What Clients Say About Working With Joe Stephens

Client reviews highlight the Stephens Law Firm’s commitment to compassionate legal care and securing meaningful results for victims.

“Stephens Law Firm, including Joe Stephens and everyone on his team, treated me with utmost professionalism, courtesy, and responsiveness. I recommend you speak with Joe if you are looking for an experienced local super attorney.” – Sam L.
“Choosing Joe Stephens and his team based on reviews turned out to be the best decision I made after my car accident. From day one, they kept me informed and supported. Their dedication and tenacity in facing off against insurance companies were truly impressive. The settlement they negotiated for my family and me far exceeded our expectations, thanks to their expertise and unwavering commitment. Words cannot express our gratitude to this firm.” – Enver Urena
“I chose this firm based on all the great reviews I saw and I don’t regret it for a second. They knew how to handle my case from the first meeting with Joe and his team. I couldn’t be happier with how my case got resolved. Again Thank You!” – Mery Mahfoud

Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents in Houston

A slip and fall accident happens when someone slips, trips, or falls because of a dangerous condition on someone else’s property. These dangerous conditions include wet floors, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting.

These accidents can cause serious injuries, from broken bones to head trauma. Property owners may be legally responsible for the harm caused when they fail to fix or warn about hazards.

Hazards That Lead to Slip and Fall Accidents in Houston

Many slip and fall accidents in Houston happen because of preventable hazards on commercial, residential, and public properties. Some of the more common hazards include:

Wet or freshly mopped floors without warning signs
Uneven or broken pavement or flooring
Poor lighting in walkways or stairwells
Cluttered aisles or blocked pathways
Unsecured rugs or floor mats
Weather-related hazards like rainwater or ice
Spills that aren’t cleaned up promptly

Property owners have a legal responsibility to fix dangerous conditions or warn visitors to help prevent these types of accidents.

How Texas Premises Liability Laws Affect Your Slip and Fall Case

In Texas, premises liability law holds property owners responsible for keeping their property reasonably safe for visitors. The level of care they owe depends on the visitor’s legal status. Invitees, like store customers, are provided the highest duty of care, while licensees and trespassers receive less protection under the law.

To win a premises liability claim, the injured person must generally prove that the property owner knew, or should have known, about the dangerous condition, failed to fix it or provide a warning, and that this negligence directly caused their injuries.

Common Injuries Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from mild bruising to serious, life-changing conditions. Some of the more common injuries include:

Sprains and strains
Fractures of the hips, wrists, arms, or legs
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
Back and spinal cord injuries
Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions
Shoulder dislocations or muscle tears

Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it’s important to seek medical attention right away to ensure you’re properly diagnosed and treated.

The Benefits of Hiring a Slip and Fall Attorney in Houston

Slip and fall cases can be complicated, especially when it comes to proving fault and negotiating with insurance companies. An experienced Houston slip and fall lawyer knows how to investigate your accident, gather critical evidence, and build a strong case that supports your claim.

A lawyer can also help you understand the full impact of your injuries. Joe Stephens will fight to make sure you’re fairly compensated for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects from your fall.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident in Houston

Taking the right steps after a slip and fall is key to protecting both your health and your right to seek compensation. Here are the immediate steps to take after suffering a slip and fall accident:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Prompt medical care also creates an official record connecting your injuries to the accident.

Report the Accident to Property Management: Notify the property owner, manager, or supervisor right away and, if possible, ask for an incident report to be completed.

Document the Scene and Your Injuries: Take photos or videos of the exact area where you fell, the hazard that caused it, and any visible injuries.

Gather Witness Information: If anyone saw your fall or the unsafe condition, collect their names and contact details.

Preserve Evidence: Keep the clothes and shoes you were wearing in the same condition. These could help show what happened during your incident.

Avoid Giving Detailed Statements to Insurers: Don’t provide recorded statements or sign anything from an insurance company without first talking to a lawyer.
Consult a Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer: Speak with an experienced attorney like Joe Stephens to understand your legal rights and next steps in the claims process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Cases in Houston

What Is the First Thing I Should Do if I’m Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident on Someone Else’s Property in Houston?

Make sure you’re safe and seek immediate medical attention. Once you’re stable, report the accident to the property owner or manager and document everything you can.

How Much Will Hiring a Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer for My Case Cost Me?

At The Stephens Law Firm, there’s no upfront cost. Joe Stephens works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless he wins your case.

What if the Property Owner Claims I Was at Fault or Partially To Blame for My Slip and Fall Accident?

Texas follows a proportionate responsibility rule. If you were less than 51% responsible, you can still recover compensation, but your award may be reduced based on your share of the fault.

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Slip and Fall Lawsuit in Houston, Texas?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas.

What Compensation Can I Potentially Recover in a Houston Slip and Fall Claim?

You may be able to recover damages for:

Medical expenses
Lost wages or income
Pain and suffering
Future medical care
Loss of earning capacity

Contact a Houston Slip and Fall Lawyer Today For a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, Joe Stephens is here to help. With over 40 years of experience and a reputation for results, The Stephens Law Firm is committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve, all with personalized, compassionate support.

Your case review is completely free, with no obligation and no legal fees unless Joe wins your case. Call (281) 623-1701 or submit a message through the online contact form to have your case treated with the attention it deserves.

Free Case Evaluation

Client Testimonials

I can’t recommend Stephens Law Firm highly enough. Following my car accident, I was concerned about getting help since it occurred in my company car. However, Joe and his team were incredibly thorough and supportive throughout the process. They fought tirelessly to ensure I received every dollar I deserved. Stephanie’s expertise and dedication were exceptional. Thank you, Mr. Stephens, for your outstanding service!

Elise Escarramán

Joe and his team were on top of my case every step of the way. When decisions needed to be made they presented me with everything to make an informed decision but never tried to sway me one way or the other. Great team.

Susan Taylor

There are SO many law firms in Houston it can be really hard to choose which is a reputable one. So many firms want your business but then hardly ever reach out, especially with something as important as a legal case. The Stephens Law Firm really made everything as stress free as possible for us. Angelica was always reaching out and keeping us informed on everything. We felt like we were in good hands and will always recommend them to anyone who needs an attorney in the Houston area!

Bianca Burkhart

Our Results

$10,700,000

Wrongful Death Settlement

A Texas jury awarded $10.7 million to the family of Michael Skorpenske, who died from a prescription drug overdose, marking the first civil verdict against a pill mill for a fatal overdose.

$9,600,000

Tractor-Trailer Accident Settlement

A Texas jury awarded $9.6 million to the family of Melvin Huff Sr. and Jr., who died when a tractor-trailer jackknifed on Hwy 290. The plaintiffs cited driver negligence and poor vehicle maintenance.

$7,011,000

Car Accident Settlement

A Texas jury awarded $7.07 million to Diane Perez after a crash with a Yellow Cab. The driver was found negligent and an employee, not an independent contractor.

$1,275,000

Car Accident Settlement

A Texas jury awarded $1.275 million to Monica Jones after Qinglai Wang ran a stop sign and struck her SUV in Katy, causing herniated discs and a fractured tibia.

$907,009

Insurance Settlement

A jury awarded $907,009 in a coverage dispute with Nationwide Mutual Insurance after a rental car accident, ruling the rental was a substitute for a broken-down vehicle.

Houston Office Location

9039 Katy Fwy Suite 332
Houston, TX 77024

(936) 209-7567