Have You Been The Victim Of An Offshore Drilling Accident? Know Your Rights
If you have been the victim of an offshore drilling accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Offshore drilling is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world and accidents can be serious and even result in death. If you or a loved one has suffered from an offshore drilling accident, our New Orleans law maritime accident lawyers can help.
What is an Offshore Drilling Accident?
Offshore drilling is the process of oil drilling into the seabed on the ocean. Generally, this process is used to extract petroleum. Challenges arise for numerous reasons, partially because offshore drilling takes place in remote areas in the middle of the ocean and the drilling can create a lot of pressure. Further, the materials on the oil rigs are highly flammable and explosive.
Common types of offshore drilling accidents include:
- Blowout, which is the uncontrolled release of oil or natural gas from a well.
- Fires and explosions
- Equipment failures
- Crane accidents
- Slip and falls
- Falling objects
- Maritime vessel collisions
We have represented maritime accident victims in the New Orleans metropolitan area and throughout the Gulf South region, including:
- Oil rig workers;
- Seamen;
- Dock workers;
- Anyone hurt while earning a living on or around the water; and
- People who have been injured while on the water for recreation.
The pay for positions where individuals are offshore drilling are generally lucrative due these jobs being the most dangerous in the world. Approximately 100 oil workers die every year and countless more are injured on the job, which can cause long-term health problems. Therefore, bringing a lawsuit is important as you could potentially win compensation to make up for your pain and suffering. Especially where the injuries are a direct result of someone else’s actions or lack of actions.
What are Practical Next Steps?
The most important thing to do after an offshore drilling accident is to seek medical attention immediately. Your health and wellbeing is the top priority after an accident, especially if your injuries are severe. You can also report the accident to your employer or the offshore drilling company as soon as possible, an attorney can help with this process as well. If it did not happen in a workplace setting, then report the accident to whoever the proper entity is or contact us to help figure this step out. Finally, gather as much evidence as possible. Evidence can include witness statements, accident reports, photographs, and any other relevant information you can collect.
How Can Palazzo Law Firm Help?
Our maritime accident lawyers are here to help you with every aspect of your case including, but not limited to:
- Investigating the accident to determine the cause of the injuries and identify liable parties.
- Filing a claim under complicated maritime laws for compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and any other damages.
- Advocating on your behalf to your insurance company to secure appropriate compensation.
- Representing you at trial to argue for full compensation in front of a judge and jury.
- Ensuring compliance with applicable laws throughout the legal process.
These cases are often complex as they typically involve various laws from different states and maritime law. Along with offshore drilling accidents, our experienced attorneys can also assist with victims of commercial and recreational boating and diving accidents and dock accidents.
If you have been the victim of an offshore drilling accident, do not hesitate to call 504-433-1442 today for a free consultation. We are here to help you get the justice you deserve for the injuries you have suffered.
