Mainly used for offshore drilling in the oil and gas industry, jack-up rigs are mobile platforms that can be raised or lowered using hydraulics and rest on the bottom of the sea. They are immense pieces of machinery and are an essential part of offshore drilling.
However, working on one comes with significant risks. The harsh marine environment, heavy machinery, and unpredictable weather conditions create a dangerous setting for workers. When accidents occur, the injuries can be severe, leaving victims with medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term disabilities. If you or a loved one has been injured while working on a jack-up rig, you need experienced Houston jack-up rig accident lawyers to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
At Kolodny Law Firm, we understand the complexities of maritime injury cases. Our firm fights for offshore workers harmed due to negligence, unsafe conditions, or employer misconduct. With a deep understanding of maritime laws, including the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), we can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
WHY ARE JACK-UP RIGS DANGEROUS?
Jack-up rigs are mobile offshore drilling platforms supported by retractable legs that extend to the seabed. These rigs are commonly used in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Texas coastline, but despite their innovative design, they pose unique risks to workers. The dangers include:
- Heavy machinery and equipment failures. Jack-up rigs rely on cranes, drilling equipment, and hydraulic systems, which can malfunction or fail due to improper maintenance or defects.
- Slip and fall hazards. Oil, grease, and seawater create slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of falls from significant heights.
- Explosions and fires. The presence of flammable gases and chemicals makes jack-up rigs highly susceptible to explosions and fires.
- Collapses and structural failures. If the rig lacks proper stabilization or experiences mechanical failure, it can collapse or tip over, endangering workers.
- Severe weather conditions. High winds, storms, and rough seas can lead to dangerous working conditions, causing equipment to fail or workers to fall overboard.
Even something as simple as falling tools can be a major concern in a work area like this. Studies have shown that overall, jack-up rig workers and most general offshore workers, are at a risk of twice that of on-land construction workers. Because jack-up rigs are located offshore, injured workers often face delays in receiving medical attention. This highlights the importance of safety regulations and the need for experienced jack-up rig accident attorneys to help victims recover compensation.
COMMON INJURIES IN JACK-UP RIG ACCIDENTS
Accidents on jack-up rigs often result in catastrophic injuries that can affect a worker’s ability to return to their job. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Falls, equipment malfunctions, or heavy objects striking a worker’s head can lead to severe brain injuries.
- Burns and chemical exposure. Fires, explosions, and exposure to hazardous chemicals can cause life-threatening burns and respiratory illnesses.
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis. Falls from heights or crushing injuries can damage the spine, resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
- Amputations and crush injuries. Machinery malfunctions and heavy equipment accidents can lead to loss of limbs or severe crushing injuries.
- Drowning and hypothermia. If a worker falls overboard or is trapped in water due to structural failures, the risk of drowning or hypothermia is high.
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. An offshore injury lawyer in Houston can help injured workers and their families recover compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and future expenses.
WHO IS LIABLE FOR A JACK-UP RIG INJURY?
Determining liability in a jack-up rig accident depends on the circumstances of the case. Several parties may be responsible for the injuries, including:
- Employers. If the employer fails to provide adequate training, safety equipment, or proper maintenance of machinery, they may be held liable under the Jones Act.
- Rig owners and operators. Companies that own and operate jack-up rigs are responsible for ensuring their platforms are safe and well-maintained.
- Equipment manufacturers. If a defective piece of equipment or machinery contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable for damages.
- Third-party contractors. Contractors working on the rig who engage in negligent behavior may be held accountable for injuries they cause.
Since liability can be complex, hiring a skilled Houston jack-up rig accident lawyer is crucial to investigating the cause of the accident and identifying responsible parties.
WHAT COMPENSATION CAN YOU RECOVER?
Workers injured on jack-up rigs may be entitled to significant compensation, depending on the nature of their claims. The available compensation can include:
- Medical expenses—covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and long-term treatment;
- Lost wages and future earnings—compensation for lost wages and diminished earning capacity for injuries preventing a worker from returning to their job;
- Pain and suffering—accounts for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life caused by the accident;
- Disability and disfigurement—compensation for permanent injuries, such as amputations or paralysis; and
- Wrongful death benefits—damages awarded to surviving family members for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering resulting from the death of a loved one.
An experienced jack-up rig accident attorney can assess your case and determine the full value of your claim.
RIGHTS AFTER A JACK-UP RIG ACCIDENT IN HOUSTON
Since jack-up rigs are modestly mobile platforms, they are considered maritime vessels insofar as they relate to the Jones Act and maritime law. Injury compensation, maintenance and cure, and much more is available for those injured on a jack-up rig. Having the help of an experienced Jones Act maritime lawyer can make all the difference when fighting for fair and just compensation due to a jack-up rig accident.
No matter the injury sustained after a jack-up rig accident in Houston, the experienced maritime attorneys at the Kolodny Law Firm are here to help guide you and your loved ones to the fair and just compensation you deserve. Call us today.
HOW KOLODNY LAW FIRM CAN HELP
Navigating a maritime injury claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with large offshore companies and their insurers. Kolodny Law Firm has the knowledge and experience to take on these challenges and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our legal team:
- Conducts thorough investigations to establish negligence and liability;
- Gathers evidence, including accident reports, safety records, and witness statements;
- Negotiates with insurance companies and employers to secure maximum compensation; and
- Represents injured workers in court if you cannot reach a fair settlement.
With a strong track record of success, our firm is committed to protecting the rights of injured offshore workers.
SPEAK WITH A JACK-UP RIG INJURY ACCIDENT LAWYER TODAY
Your recovery should be your top priority—let us handle the rest. At Kolodny Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a jack-up rig accident can take. You do not have to face this battle alone. Our experienced Houston jack-up rig accident lawyers are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. We are committed to getting results for injured offshore workers through skilled negotiation or aggressive courtroom advocacy.
Time is critical. Call us today or complete our online contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us advocate for your rights while you focus on healing. You pay nothing unless we win your case—your fight is our fight.