Working on offshore platforms can be very dangerous. Transportation accidents are a leading cause of injury due to constant travel between the rig and land. Boating and helicopter accidents are very common. If you or someone you know is a victim, contact an Offshore Accident Lawyer in Crowley LA. These lawyers are familiar with maritime law that governs accidents at sea.
Common Injuries
Being hit and getting stuck are responsible for half of the fatalities in offshore drilling. Oil and gas platforms contain a lot of heavy equipment. Platforms shift because of tremors and hurricanes. Oil is very flammable so fires occur frequently. Fortunately, every fire does not lead to a massive explosion. Nonetheless, workers can be seriously burnt. Burns can cause significant damage to nerves and tissue. Special care is necessary and victims often require rehabilitation.
Massive explosions are caused when underwater pipes break. Workers routinely swim down to the pipes to do repairs. Several men have lost their lives this way. In addition, a large percentage of platform accidents occur due to slip and falls. Injured workers need an Offshore Accident Lawyer in Crowley LA.
Hire a Lawyer
It’s important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. The accident must be investigated because multiple parties may be at fault. Sometimes, the platform owner is liable while equipment manufacturers may be to blame. Numerous pipes burst because they’re defective. The lawyer must contact the appropriate insurer so the injured worker is compensated.
The Jones Act
Many injured workers can get help under the Jones Act. The Jones Act is a federal law that provides relief for those who work on some oil and gas rigs. The attorney must prove an employer’s negligence contributed to the accident. The Jones Act provides disability payments and compensation for medical bills. Additionally, The Death On The High Seas Act provides help for those who lost someone in an accident. The Act compensates the deceased’s family for funeral expenses and lost wages.
Years ago, maritime workers had no protection if they were injured or killed. As a result, federal laws were written to compensate them. Effective offshore accident lawyers must use maritime law to maximize the client’s recovery. For more information, contact Chrisrichardattorney.com. You can connect with them on Facebook for more updates!
