An Attorney’s Guide To Oil Rig Injuries

Oil rigs are hazardous to work environments, leading to severe injuries and even death. Common injuries on oil rigs include burns, slips and falls, electrocution, and exposure to hazardous chemicals. Workers risk exposure to extreme temperatures, loud noises, and long hours. To reduce the risk of injury, employers must provide proper safety equipment and training, and workers must follow safety protocols. 

There are times when negligence or lack of training plays a role in an oil rig accident or even wrongful death on the job. Many oil rig companies will try to claim these unfortunate deaths and injuries are non-work related. These statements are not always factual, and you should not be the victim of a company refusing to take accountability. Today, we outline how oil rig injury attorneys can help you in the event of a lawsuit. 

Types and Causes of Oil Rig Injuries 

If you work in an oil rig, you know it’s a dangerous place. Thousands of accidents occur yearly at oil rigs that can cause long-term or permanent damage to your personal life. Frequent types of oil injuries vary from: 

1. Burns: Burns are a common injury on oil rigs caused by contact with hot surfaces, steam, hot liquids, or exposure to hazardous materials.
2. Slips and Falls: Many oil rigs operate on slippery surfaces and uneven terrain. Slips and falls are common in such a hazardous environment. Lack of proper protective equipment like steel-toed boots or 
3. Cuts and Lacerations: Cuts and lacerations happen due to contact with sharp objects or tools.
4. Musculoskeletal Injuries: Strains and sprains are common due to the physical nature of the work on oil rigs.
5. Respiratory Illnesses: Respiratory illnesses like asthma and bronchitis result from exposure to hazardous chemicals and fumes on oil rigs.
6. Hearing loss occurs from prolonged exposure to loud noises on oil rigs.
7. Eye Injuries: Eye injuries occur from contact with hazardous chemicals or flying debris. If you have damaged or worn out PPE, this is consistent with poor work conditions if any injuries occur. 
8.  Explosions: Combustion accidents are very likely when working in an oil rig. Explosions typically happen from faulty equipment, pipeline blowouts, poor drilling practices, and improper inspection.  

Every situation is unique regarding accidents and injuries. Suppose your workplace injury does not fall into the criteria above, do not worry. These are a few examples of how oil rig attorneys help you seek justice. 

Legal Rights of Oil Rig Injury Victims

Oil rig injury victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They may also be entitled to punitive damages if another party’s carelessness caused the injury. Victims may also be able to pursue legal action against the responsible party for negligence or wrongful death. 

How Oil Rig Injury Attorneys Help with Oil Rig Injury Claims 

Oil rig injury attorneys specialize in helping individuals who sustain injuries while working on an oil rig. They can provide legal advice and representation to help injured workers receive compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. 

They can also help workers file claims with their employers and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to protect their rights. For victims left in pain or handicapped due to a work accident, oil rig injury attorneys will represent you. That means your attorney will work for you without you needing to physically be there to state your case. 

Common Challenges in Oil Rig Injury Cases

Common challenges in oil rig injury cases include:

• Proving negligence on the employer’s part.
• Establishing causation between the injury and the employer’s negligence.
• Proving the extent of the damages suffered by the injured party.

Additionally, oil rig injury cases often involve complex legal issues related to maritime law, which can make them difficult to navigate. 

Tips for Choosing an Attorney for Oil Rig Injury Claims 

1. Research the attorney’s experience and qualifications in handling oil rig injury claims.
2. Ask for references from past clients who have had similar cases.
3. Ensure the attorney is familiar with the laws and regulations governing oil rigs in your state.
4. Ask about the attorney’s fees and payment structure.
5. Make sure the attorney will take your case to trial if necessary.
6. Ask about the attorney’s strategy for pursuing your claim.
7. Make sure the attorney is available to answer your questions and provide updates on the progress of your case.

Seek a Trustworthy Law Firm for Your Oil Rig Accident   

Oil rig injuries are complex and challenging to navigate. Oil rig injury attorneys must understand the legal implications of these injuries and be prepared to provide the best possible representation for their clients. With the proper knowledge and resources, attorneys can help their clients receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries.