Typical Offshore Injuries

Common Accidents That Happen to Offshore Workers That Can be Compensated for Under Different Types of Maritime Law.

Workers on oil platforms and Jack up rigs, and other vessels off of U.S. coasts such as the Gulf of Mexico have one of the world’s most dangerous jobs. Dealing with the elements, hazardous materials, heavy machinery, long hours and grueling work can contribute to accidents of all kinds. Our maritime lawyers are well equipped to represent these workers in the case of an accident that causes injury or death. Here’s a look at some of the most common accidents that these offshore workers face.

• Injuries from Falling Objects
  One of the most common injuries on offshore vessels and structures happen from large objects falling into the work area. It is routine for large ships to transport and make use of heavy machinery. In negligent conditions, poorly secured equipment and other objects to fall and cause damage to other structures and workers in the area.


• Fires and Explosions
  Nearly every offshore work environment requires workers to operate near, or handle combustible materials. In the event that these materials be mishandled, if employers are negligent in keeping the workplace safe, or if the negligence of a co-worker causes these materials to catch fire or explode, the results are nearly always disastrous resulting in severe burns, inhalation of toxic chemicals, and a multitude of other dreadful injuries.


• Equipment Failure
  When equipment malfunctions, whether it is the result of improper or inadequate maintenance, defective parts, or poor manufacturing/design can have disastrous consequences. This includes defective or improper use of safety equipment.


• Injuries from a Fall
  Working on equipment at sea means dealing head on with rough elements. Storms in the Gulf of Mexico and cause ships and oil platforms alike into a very dangerous place to have to move around. Surfaces can become slippery and lend to lost footing, balance and sometimes result in calamitous falls that all too often lead to injuries and death.

Compensation for these and other types of maritime accidents depends on multitude of complex federal and state laws, regulations, acts and rules that need to be clearly understood so that a person’s injury can be clearly identified and the type of compensation that is owed to them is granted. Our Maritime Injury Attorneys are well versed in these laws and will work with you and your family.

IF YOU OR A FAMILY MEMBER IS A MARITIME WORKER AND HAS BEEN INJURED IN AN OFFSHORE ACCIDENT, CONTACT THE TEAM OF CARABIN SHAW AT 800-862-1260 DAY OR NIGHT, 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION.

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