Offshore Drilling Rig Injury Lawyers

Drilling rigs and other offshore structures can be hostile work environments. They present many dangers for oil and gas workers. Increased production activity has resulted in larger numbers of people working closely together as a means of maximizing profits. More people on a site significantly increases the likelihood of a serious accident occurring. Common drilling rig dangers include:

  • Cable or block breaks
  • Slip and fall accidents
  • Faulty grating, pipe tongs
  • Cathead slips
  • Falling objects
  • Equipment operating negligence
  • Other negligence

Depending on the circumstances of an offshore rig accident, you may be able to collect compensation under federal maritime law or state personal injury law. An experienced maritime attorney will be able to help you determine what rights you have specific to the circumstances of your injury.

If you have been injured on a fixed platform, your case is likely covered by the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. This act deems fixed oil platforms an island of the contiguous state. In this event, your injury would be covered by the workers’ compensation laws of the nearest state. If the injury is caused by a third party, such as a negligent contractor or equipment manufacturer, you could also file a lawsuit against the third party.

Maritime injury law is complicated. It is in your best interest to seek out an experienced maritime attorney in order to receive maximum compensation for your injury. If you or someone in your family has been injured or killed in an offshore accident, please contact the Cochran Firm today to arrange a consultation.