Jack-Up Rig Accidents

Texas Jack-Up Rig Accidents

Jack Up Rig Accident Law Firm at Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C.

The offshore oil and gas industry, while vital to global energy production, presents inherent risks to the workers who operate and maintain its infrastructure. Among the most common types of mobile oil platforms are jack-up rigs, characterized by their unique design and operational dynamics. These structures, typically employed in shallower waters, utilize a system of supporting legs that are raised and lowered to position the rig on the seabed. This functionality, while essential for efficient operation, also contributes to the potential for serious accidents and injuries.

At Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., our Texas offshore injury lawyers represent individuals who work on jack-up rigs and other drilling rigs throughout Texas and the Gulf Coast. For nearly two decades, our attorneys have helped injured workers and their families with personal injury claims. We have a thorough understanding of the laws involved with these claims and how to pursue the appropriate compensation for our clients.

Oil Drilling Accident Liability with the Help of Our Oil Rig Accident Lawyer

The nature of work on a jack-up rig inherently exposes workers to a multitude of hazards. The elevated working environment significantly increases the risk of falls, potentially leading to catastrophic injuries. The presence of heavy machinery, complex systems, and the constant handling of potentially dangerous materials further exacerbates the risk profile. Moreover, the isolated nature of these platforms, often located far from shore, can complicate emergency response and medical treatment.

Specific hazards commonly encountered on jack-up rigs include:

  • Falls from Heights: The significant height of the rig’s working platforms presents a constant threat of falls, often resulting in severe injuries, including fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. Inadequate safety measures, poorly maintained equipment, and human error all contribute to the frequency of such incidents.
  • Explosions and Fires: The handling of flammable and explosive materials, combined with the potential for equipment malfunctions, creates a significant risk of fires and explosions. These events can cause severe burns, asphyxiation, and other life-threatening injuries. The confined spaces on a jack-up rig can further exacerbate the severity of such incidents.
  • Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals: Jack-up rigs often handle a wide range of chemicals, many of which are toxic or carcinogenic. Exposure to these chemicals can lead to a variety of health problems, ranging from skin irritation to long-term illnesses such as cancer. Inadequate safety protocols and a lack of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) significantly increase the risk of exposure.
  • Electrocution: The presence of high-voltage electrical systems on jack-up rigs creates a risk of electrocution. Faulty wiring, inadequate safety measures, and exposure to wet or conductive surfaces all contribute to the potential for such accidents. Electrocution can lead to severe burns, cardiac arrest, and even death.
  • Determining Liability in Jack-Up Rig Accidents

Establishing liability in jack-up rig accidents often involves a complex investigation into multiple factors. Negligence on the part of various parties may contribute to the occurrence of an accident. These parties may include:

  • Employers: Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment for their employees. Failure to implement adequate safety measures, provide proper training, or maintain equipment in good working order can lead to liability.
  • Rig Operators: The operators of the jack-up rig have a responsibility to ensure that the platform is operated safely and in accordance with industry regulations. Negligence in operation or maintenance can lead to serious accidents.
  • Property Owners: The owners of the jack-up rig have a duty to ensure that the platform is properly maintained and that safety standards are met. Failure to do so can result in liability for accidents that occur.
  • Manufacturers: Manufacturers of equipment used on jack-up rigs have a responsibility to ensure that their products are safe and free from defects. Defective equipment can be a direct cause of accidents.

Investigating these accidents requires a thorough examination of safety protocols, maintenance records, and witness testimonies. Expert analysis of the accident scene and equipment may be necessary to determine the root cause and apportion liability accordingly.

Legal Recourse for Injured Workers

Injured workers on jack-up rigs have legal recourse to pursue compensation for their injuries. This typically involves filing a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible parties. The legal process can be complex, requiring the expertise of experienced attorneys who specialize in offshore accidents. These attorneys can help navigate the legal complexities, gather evidence, and build a strong case to maximize the chances of a favorable outcome.

The compensation sought in these cases can include:

  • Medical Expenses: Coverage for all past and future medical expenses related to the injuries sustained.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to the inability to work as a result of the injuries.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering experienced by the injured worker.
  • Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship and support experienced by the injured worker’s spouse or family members.

Contact our Corpus Christi jack-up rig accident attorney for a no obligation free consultation.

For more information regarding our offshore worker representation in Texas, schedule an appointment with our experienced lawyers. Contact us at one of our offices in Corpus Christi or McAllen at 844-426-3000.

Our firm has offices in the following locations: Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi South Side, Brownsville, McAllen, San Antonio, Houston, and Ft. Worth , TX.

 

ABOUT HERRMAN & HERRMAN PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS
With over 100 years of combined experience among the legal team of Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., our Texas personal injury attorneys have successfully resolved over 20,000 cases. When representing injured Texas residents, we fight for justice against wrongdoing and aggressively pursue the best resolution to complex personal injury claims.
If you or a loved one was injured, please get in touch with us for a free initial consultation and case evaluation. Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., is a locally based law firm that holds negligent individuals and companies accountable for their wrongdoing. We are not a personal injury mill that advertises nationwide. We provide individualized advocacy in attending to all aspects of claims that involve. Our firm has offices in the following locations: Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi South Side, Dallas, Brownsville, McAllen, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, and Ft. Worth, TX.

We remain by our client’s side, handling all aspects of their claims and attending to all legal, medical, and financial needs. That dedication combines experience, legal knowledge, and insight from a former insurance adjuster and several former insurance defense attorneys. Whether our clients suffer from physical pain from an accident or the emotional grief of death, we treat clients with compassion. We put their mind at ease during difficult times by answering their questions concerning the length of their claim, medical bills, financial compensation, and their overall need for a lawyer.

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