The offshore oil and gas industry is often regarded as one of the most dangerous industries in the United States. Due to the dangerous nature of this work, the severity and lasting impacts of an offshore injury are often life altering. Injured on a Vessel In 1920, Congress signed a bill into law called the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 – also known as the Jones Act. This law provided a variety of protections for seamen injured aboard vessels traveling the navigable waters of the United States who were injured as a result of the negligence of their employer. These protections place a duty upon the employer to provide what is known as “maintenance and cure” to the injured person. While the Jones Act may offer comprehensive coverage for you after your injury, it can be complicated to determine if you are covered under the Act to pursue a claim. That is why it is important to contact a personal injury attorney who is not only familiar with this nuanced area of law, but one that is also willing to work hard for you. The Jones Act Lawyers at Bailey Reyes are passionate about helping you get back on your feet and providing you protection under the law. The following are common causes of serious offshore injuries:
Offshore Oil Rig Injury – Top 3 Causes
The offshore oil and gas industry employs thousands of Americans each year to work in very dangerous conditions. Offshore oil extraction continues to be a dangerous field because those in the industry constantly work with heavy machinery for very long hours. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the offshore worker is seven times more likely to die on the job than the average worker in the United States.
In 2010, the catastrophic event known as the Deepwater Horizon – which killed 11 people and injured many others – reminded us of the dangers of fire and explosions aboard oil and gas rigs. The brave men and women who work aboard these rigs often work with volatile chemicals —and are hours from emergency medical services. This combination can prove seriously dangerous and even deadly. Helping those who have been involved in an oil rig explosion to get back on their feet and take care of their families is not only the right thing to do, it is what sparks our passion as your advocate.
2. Trips, Slips & Falls
Falling from the deck of a vessel into the ocean or falling while maneuvering down slippery steps can result in serious bodily injury or even death. It is the responsibility of your employer to ensure safety meetings are routinely held, and that work areas are safe for you to do your job. Employers are also responsible for maintaining a safe work environment which includes ensuring that hazardous chemicals are not leaking on the floor; that proper equipment is used when lifting heavy objects; that the floors are regularly cleaned; that steps aboard the vessels are clear of dirt and debris; that guardrails and handrails are properly maintained; and that walkways are clear of tripping hazards. If you have been injured from a fall sustained while working offshore The Jones Act Lawyers at Bailey Reyes will work to get you the compensation you deserve.
3. Transportation Accidents
The vast majority of transportation accidents occur while an individual is being transported either by ship or helicopter back and forth from the rig. Frequently, these injuries occur due to mechanical failure of the helicopter or poorly trained pilots who decide to operate the helicopter in dangerous weather. To find out if you could be owed compensation, fill out our free case review form to contact us today.
