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Texas Oil Rig Accident Lawyer
Working on an oil rig or natural gas platform is dangerous. How dangerous? It is consistently among the top-top most hazardous types of work. Accidents are common, and even severe accidents happen frequently.
One of the reasons that offshore workers make very good money is because of the risk. However, the high pay does not mean you cannot recover for an accident. If you are injured while offshore, you may be entitled to compensation.
What Is A Rig?
A rig is a large structure that extracts and processes oil and gas from rock formations underneath the seabed. Rigs can extract petroleum (oil) or natural gas. Rigs go by many names, including
- Oil rig
- Oil platform
- Offshore rig
- Offshore platform
- Natural gas rig
- Natural gas platform
To keep things simple, we will call them rigs.
Offshore accidents are different than other accidents. State law governs most personal injury accidents. However, maritime law governs offshore accidents. If you have a maritime claim, you need an attorney who knows maritime law.
Why Are Rigs Dangerous?
Many things make rigs naturally dangerous.
Hurt in Houston | Oil Rig Accident Lawyer Their offshore locations make them vulnerable to weather.
- They have lots of heavy machinery.
- They have flammable chemicals.
- They are high.
- They are slippery.
Other factors may increase their danger, such as
- Lack of safety training
- Improper maintenance
- Long shifts
- Not having the right equipment
What Injuries Occur on Rigs?
You can suffer the same injuries on a rig as on land. However, some injuries are common on rigs.
- Falls
- Cuts
- Burns
- Heavy machinery incidents
Falls
Most of us have taken a tumble in without suffering any serious injuries. However, slips and falls can be severe. In an oil rig fall, you might get
- Sprains
- Strains
- Bruises
- Broken bones
- Spinal fracture
- Traumatic brain injury
You can also fall off of the rig. In cold water, a fall can lead to hypothermia. In warm water, sharks are a risk. Either one can lead to drowning.
Cuts
Rigs are full of things that can cut you. Scrapes and minor cuts are an everyday occurrence. However, you can also get large cuts and lacerations that require immediate medical care. You can cut tendons and nerves, which can require reconstructive surgery. Cuts can also lead to infections and even sepsis.
Burns
Because rigs are in the water, people might minimize fire risk. However, rigs have chemicals and fuel, so it is easy to start a fire and hard to contain once it starts. Burns can cause pain and even lasting injuries. They can also require lifelong medical care.
Heavy Machinery
Rigs are full of heavy machinery. Machines can crush people or tear off body parts. They can cause amputations and other injuries.
Can I Recover from a Rig Accident?
Even though rig work is dangerous, you can recover from your injuries.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Rig Injury?
Maybe. Rig injuries are common, and many employers have excellent injury protocols. You probably do not need a lawyer if you have a minor injury.
However, if you have a significant injury, you may need a lawyer. A lawyer can help you evaluate your injury’s immediate and long-term costs. Then, they can help you get a fair settlement from your employer or insurance company.
Not Sure What to Do?
People who suffer workplace injuries are often conflicted about what to do. At The Salazar Law Firm, we offer free, no-obligation consultations. Contact us to schedule one. We can discuss your case with you. Sometimes, getting a lawyer’s opinion can help you decide whether you need a lawyer.