Oil rigs are a common workplace in Texas, but they are also among the most dangerous places of employment. Workers on these rigs face frequent hazards, including heavy machinery failures and toxic chemical exposure. When accidents occur, the injuries can be devastating and even lead to long-term disability.
If a third-party was responsible for your injury, a Cypress oil rig accident lawyer could help you pursue rightful compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits. A dedicated maritime injury attorney could advocate for you and your family, focusing on third-party injury claims and helping you and other victims hold negligent companies accountable.
Common Causes of Oil Rig Accidents
Oil rig accidents often stem from preventable safety failures. Equipment malfunction is one common cause of accidents, and often happens when heavy drilling equipment, hoists, and pipelines do not get proper maintenance. Other accidents stem from fires, explosions, toxic exposure, and falls. Companies are also required to properly instruct and supervise third-party contractors. If a subcontractor provides inadequate training, workers injured as a result might have the right to file a lawsuit.
Unlike standard workers’ compensation cases, oil rig accident claims often involve third-party liability. Those a victim could hold liable for third-party negligence include equipment manufacturers, contractors and subcontractors, property owners, and transport companies. An oil rig accident lawyer in Cypress could investigate the circumstances of an incident, identify responsible parties, and pursue maximum compensation for those injured.
Types of Injuries Associated With Oil Rig Accidents
Oil rig accidents often result in severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Common injuries include:
These injuries can permanently affect a victim’s ability to earn a living. A skilled Cypress attorney could help calculate the full value of an oil rig accident claim, taking into account long-term medical needs, loss of income, and pain and suffering.
Oil Rig Accidents Can Be Complex
Some oil rig workers may qualify for protection under federal maritime laws such as the Jones Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). The Jones Act allows injured offshore workers to file negligence claims against employers if their injuries were caused by unsafe conditions or equipment. The LHWCA provides compensation for land-based maritime workers.
Trying to build a case alone can be difficult, particularly for those who are not familiar with the laws involved. Oil rig injury attorneys in Cypress are familiar with the circumstances of these situations and will know which option to pursue to get fair compensation.
Call a Cypress Oil Rig Accident Attorney For Help
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in an oil rig accident, do not navigate the aftermath alone. An experienced Cypress oil rig accident lawyer could evaluate the situation, identify third-party liability, and pursue the compensation you need. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.
