OKC Offshore Oil Rig Accident Attorneys
Offshore Oil Rig Accident
United States oil companies operate over 1,800 oil rigs. Many of them are offshore oil rigs designed for drilling in the ocean. Workers on these oil rigs may be assigned to them for six months at a time. Oil rig workers take on rigorous shifts, sometimes working eight to twelve hours a day in dangerous and isolated conditions. The oil rigs themselves may be in disrepair, using outdated equipment, or staffed with workers whose employers have not taken the time necessary to train them fully.
Injuries on oil rigs are far too common. Oil rig work is difficult and dangerous and the demand for oil rig production is high. Unfortunately, many offshore oil rig accidents could have been prevented. Whether a worker is injured due to failing equipment, working required overtime without rest, being expected to follow unsafe procedures, or another cause, offshore oil rig workers are often able to recover compensation for injuries caused by someone else's careless or negligent behavior.
Workers on U.S. offshore oil rigs may also be protected by the Jones Act, a federal law that covers workers on boats, floating oil rigs, and similar vessels. Under the Jones Act, an injured worker can take his or her case to a jury if a negligent employer doesn't offer a fair settlement. The Jones Act requires employers whose negligence injured a worker to provide that worker with compensation for his or her injuries. Compensation can include payments for medical expenses, therapy or rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. Workers can also recover the full amount of wages lost when the injury prevents them from being able to do their job.
If you are injured in an Oklahoma oil rig accident, seek medical attention immediately. Consider getting a second opinion from an independent physician, especially if the company doctor tells you to return to work despite your injuries. You should also strongly consider seeking the help of an experienced Oklahoma offshore oil rig accident lawyer. An experienced oil rig accident attorney will help you find a qualified physician who can assess the full impact of your injuries and prescribe appropriate treatment.
A skilled Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer will also investigate the details of your case and ensure that any settlement amount reflects the full scope of the damage you've suffered. If your employer or the insurance company refuses to offer you fair compensation, an Oklahoma oil rig lawyer will take your case to court, fighting to protect your legal rights and holding negligent parties accountable for their actions.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an offshore oil rig accident, please get in touch with the experienced Oklahoma offshore oil rig accident lawyers at Maples Law Firm. After a free and confidential consultation, the experienced legal team at Maples Law Firm will investigate the circumstances of your accident and fight aggressively to help you recover costs for medical bills, physical therapy, rehabilitation, lost wages, and other damages. Call Maples Law Firm at (888) 226-6159 today to schedule your free consultation.
