The oil and gas industry is a vital part of League City’s economy. As important as drilling activities are, many hazards can result in injury to oil workers due to accidents such as blowouts, falls, explosions, and equipment failure. If you suffered injuries on an oil rig, a League City oil rig accident lawyer from Schechter, Shaffer and Harris can help you understand your legal right to compensation through federal maritime injury laws, including the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).
Federal and State Laws Impacting Compensation After an Oil Rig Accident
After an oil rig accident, an individual’s ability to seek compensation may depend on how the incident occurred and the person’s status as a worker on an oil rig. A League City lawyer can help injured oil rig workers understand their options, including how they can best seek compensation for damages sustained in the accident.
The Jones Act
The Jones Act notes that all maritime workers, including those that work on oil rigs, have the right to seek compensation from their employer directly in the form of a personal injury claim when they suffer injuries due to their employer’s negligence, including the employer’s failure to provide safe working conditions. Oil rig workers count as maritime workers when the rig is capable of navigation, even when it is primarily stable; however, oil rigs that cannot move may not qualify.
As part of a personal injury claim under the Jones Act, injured oil rig workers can claim compensation for medical costs, wage losses, and pain and suffering.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act
The LHWCA ensures workers compensation for offshore oil rig workers and others who work in positions that cause them to work on the water. Under the LHWCA, workers can pursue workers’ compensation benefits that will cover the cost of all medical treatment for the injuries they sustained as well as some coverage for missing wages during recovery.
Third-Party Liability Claims
Third-party liability claims occur when an oil rig worker suffers injuries due to the negligence of a third party. In an oil rig accident, this can include anyone on the site who is not the individual’s coworker or employer but who had a responsibility to exercise safety and caution. This could include contractors or subcontractors who are on the site for a specific task, the manufacturers of faulty equipment, and others.
Compensation Available After an Oil Rig Accident
When a worker has been injured in an oil rig accident, they may incur significant expenses. The compensation they can recover may depend on who caused the accident, what type of injuries they suffered, and the policy that covers the liable party. A League City oil rig accident lawyer can go over the damages sustained and the type of claim to help injured workers maximize the compensation they can recover.
Workers’ Comp Claims
When an injured oil rig worker files a workers’ comp claim under the LHWCA, it will cover the cost of medical treatment directly and provide some coverage for missing wages.
Personal Injury Claims
If an injured oil rig worker files a personal injury claim, either due to third-party liability or under the terms laid out in the Jones Act, they can recover compensation for their medical costs, their lost wages, and their pain and suffering.
Speak With a League City Oil Rig Accident Lawyer from Schechter, Shaffer, and Harris for Free
Unfortunately, there are many risks associated with oil rigs, and accidents often result in injuries. If you suffered injuries in this way, a League City oil rig accident lawyer at Schechter, Shaffer, and Harris can help you understand your rights, from the right type of claim for your situation to the damages you can claim. Reach out today for a free consultation.
