A New Orleans oil rig accident lawyer helps offshore workers understand their rights after an injury. Offshore employees are the backbone of the oil and gas industry. They help produce the energy that powers the United States. However, their work comes with serious risks every day.
Because of these dangers, it is important to know your rights after an offshore accident. If you were hurt, you may be entitled to compensation.
The oil industry in the Gulf of Mexico depends heavily on drilling rigs. Workers perform complex and physically demanding tasks. As a result, accidents can happen. These incidents often lead to serious injuries that are not common in other jobs.
At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, our New Orleans maritime lawyers understand these risks. We have extensive experience handling offshore injury cases in Louisiana. If you were injured on an oil rig, contact our team today for a free consultation.
Understanding Your Rights Under the Jones Act
Offshore workers are protected under the Jones Act. This federal law allows injured maritime workers to seek compensation.
In addition, the Jones Act provides “maintenance and cure.” This mean you employer must cover your medical care and basic living expenses while you recover.
If you or a loved one was injured offshore, you should speak with a New Orleans maritime lawyer as soon as possible. We can help you file a claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Oil Rig Accidents
Oil rig accidents can happen in many ways. While some are unavoidable, many result from negligence.
For example, common causes include:
- Equipment failure
- Severe weather conditions
- Vessel collisions
- Structural deterioration
- Human error
One well-known example is the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Although extreme, it shows how dangerous offshore work can be.
Even so, not every accident is that severe. However, any injury can still lead to long recovery times, high medical costs, and stress for your family.
In many cases, these accidents could have been preventable. If a company failed to maintain safe conditions, they should be held accountable.
How Our New Orleans Oil Rig Accident Lawyers Can Help
Our team has decades of experience representing injure maritime workers. We take a hands-on approach to every case.
First, we investigate your accident thoroughly. Then, we identify who is responsible. Finally, we build a strong claim to pursue full compensation.
At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we fight for your best interests. We will not let large companies take advantage of you.
Types of Offshore Drilling Vessels
Offshore workers may operate on several types of vessels. Each one comes with unique risks.
These include:
- Condeep Platforms: Concrete structures that sit on the seafloor in deep water
- Compliant Towers: Flexible towers built to handle strong ocean forces
- Fixed Platforms: Long-term structures anchored to the seafloor
- Drillships: Ships used for deep-water drilling operations
- Spar Platforms: Stable platforms designed for harsh conditions
- Jack-Up Rigs: Platforms raised above the water using support legs
Because each vessel is different, employers must maintain them properly. They must also provide proper training. Otherwise, workers face a higher risk of injury.
The Impact of Oil Rig Accidents
Oil rig accidents can have life-changing consequences. In some cases, injuries may be minor. However, many are severe or even fatal.
For example, workers may suffer:
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Back of spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
These injuries often lead to long recovery periods. In addition, victims may face lost income and ongoing medical care.
Because of that, holding negligent companies accountable is critical.
Oil Rig Worker Safety Responsibilities
Employers must provide a safe working environment. This includes maintaining equipment, training employees, and enforcing safety procedures.
When they fail to do so, accident can occur.
Common Workplace Hazards
Here are some examples of how injuries can happen:
Slip and Falls
Oil and water can make surfaces slippery. Without proper precautions, workers can fall and suffer serious injuries. Employers should use non-slip surfaces and clearly marked walkways.
Poorly Maintained Equipment
If machinery is not maintained, it can fail. For example, derrick equipment must be inspected regularly to prevent injuries.
Drilling Slip Injuries
Workers handling drilling slips may suffer back injuries. This often happens when there are not enough workers or even equipment malfunctions.
Because of these risks, employers must follow strict safety standards.
Why Oil Rig Explosions Are So Dangerous
Oil rig explosions can cause devastating injuries. Victims may suffer burns, brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or even loss of limbs.
These incidents often result from:
- Well blowouts
- Tank fires
- Equipment failure
- Poor maintenance
In addition, long work hours can lead to fatigue. Tired workers are more likely to make mistakes, which increases the risk of accidents.
Speak With a New Orleans Oil Rig Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured offshore, you do not have to handle your case alone. Cueria Law Injury Lawyers is here to help.
We understand maritime law and know how to take on large oil companies. Our team will fight to secure the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact us today for a free case review. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case.
