Serious and Catastrophic Injuries Occur on Offshore Platforms
Working on an offshore construction project is a dangerous way to earn a living. Serious and catastrophic injuries occur on offshore platforms, oil rigs, vessels and other structures off U.S. coasts and around the world. These offshore accidents can be devastating and are likely to have a long and profound impact upon the lives of the injured worker and his or her family members.
The offshore and marine contractors directing and overseeing offshore construction projects, including, Bechtel, Seacor, Beacon, Acergy, EZRA, DeepOcean, AMC, Danos and many others, have a legal duty to provide a safe and suitable working environment. Offshore operations are inherently dangerous and employers and companies must take appropriate steps to protect their workers from harm. Unfortunately, there are far too many instances of construction companies and third party contractors breaching their legal duties by failing to adopt proper safeguards and procedures. Offshore construction workers and other maritime employees can be seriously injured in dangerous and unsafe settings, including work environments involving:
- Inadequately trained workers
- Explosions and blowouts
- Crane and lifting accidents
- Lack of supervision or monitoring of a crew
- Negligent transport of personnel and workers
- Careless and negligent sub-contractors
- Transport accidents in tough seas
- Spills and debris on platforms, decks and vessels
- Improperly maintained cranes, tools and other machinery
- Faulty equipment
- Falling objects
- Unsafe diving conditions
Texas Offshore Construction Accident Lawyer – Legal Protections for Injured Workers
The majority of accidents involving offshore construction operations will fall under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA). This Act was passed in 1953 in an effort to extend the Longshore Harbor and Workers’ Compensation Act to persons working on the Outer Continental Shelf. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act is a complicated law and it can be difficult to determine whether your case falls under OCSLA or other state and federal laws aimed at protecting injured maritime workers. When you are injured in an offshore construction accident, it is always best to speak with an experienced Houston offshore construction accident lawyer who can analyze your case to determine which laws apply to your specific situation.
Under OCSLA workers are entitled to compensation and benefits similar to those found in a traditional state workers’ compensation program. These benefits include:
- Disability Benefits
- Medical Coverage
- Death Benefits for Eligible Survivors
- Rehabilitation/Retraining Benefit
It is important to know that when you are injured in an offshore construction accident, you have the right to be treated by your own doctor. If a company is trying to force you to see their doctor, you do not have to do so. Our firm can help you locate an independent physician who will provide you with the medical care and services you need to properly recover from your injuries.
Do Not Delay – Contact Us for Help with Your Offshore Construction Accident Claim
If you have been injured working on an offshore construction project you need to speak with a Texas offshore injury attorney immediately. There are strict statutes of limitation that apply to these types of claims – if you fail to take action within the legal time limit you could forfeit your right to recover financial compensation.
When you work with the Willis Law Firm we will explain how the law works and make sure you take all of the steps necessary to preserve your legal rights. You can contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. Call 1-800-468-4878 or complete our firm’s online contact form.
