Oil drilling in Texas is a major part of the economy here. Offshore drilling and onshore drilling for crude oil play a huge part in offering a stable industry for the local workforce, however, it comes with its more than fair share of dangers.
Blowouts can be one of the most common reasons for injury on an oil rig, as they can occur regardless of whether the oil rig is on land or offshore, and oftentimes can lead to serious burns, sometimes even fatal.
Poor maintenance of applicable pipelines, as well as falls from great heights also contribute to the dangers of the oil rig profession. If you or a loved one has been injured, a Houston oil rig injury attorney can help you navigate your legal options and seek the compensation you deserve.
COMMON OIL RIG ACCIDENTS
Maritime workers can suffer very debilitating injuries from oil rig accidents. Spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and a variety of other accidents have led to massive fines from OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
- Limbs caught in machinery
- Falls from derricks, platforms, hoists, unsecured ladders, slippery stairs
- Injury from improperly maintained equipment
- Crushing from heavy cargo or equipment
- Explosions and fires
- Being struck by swinging pipes or cables
Some of the most horrendous oil rig accidents stem from oil rig explosions, such as the one that occurred in the headline-making Deepwater Horizon incident in 2010. According to an internal investigation from BP, a bubble of methane gas escaped from the oil well and shot up the drilling column. As it rose, it expanded, breaking multiple seals along the way. It finally exploded in what can be safely called a blowout.
Soon after that explosion, fire engulfed the rig at an astonishing rate, giving workers approximately 5 minutes to escape the rig, and eventually burning for more than a day before finally sinking the rig. When it was all said and done, the Journal of Corporate Accounting and Finance reported the cost of the incident to be $145.93 billion. The incident claimed 11 lives.
Common Types of Oil Rig Injuries
Injuries and fatal accidents on Texas oil rigs pose significant risks to workers. The following are some of the most common injuries sustained in oil rig incidents:
- Mild to severe traumatic brain injuries
- Damage to the spinal cord or paralysis
- Serious burns
- Chemical exposure or toxic inhalation
- Amputation of limbs
- Crushing injuries
- Fractured bones
- Injuries to the back and neck
These injuries often result in substantial medical expenses and can lead to long recovery times. They can also be life-altering, leaving you with physical limitations that hinder your ability to work. This situation can create financial strain as you face mounting medical bills while trying to manage rent, mortgage payments, and other daily living costs.
Damages in Houston Oil Rig Accidents
Injuries sustained in oil rig accidents in Houston can lead to significant consequences, and understanding the types of damages you may be entitled to is essential for seeking compensation. These damages can generally be divided into two categories: economic and non-economic.
Economic Damages
These damages cover quantifiable losses resulting from the accident, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes all costs related to emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical care required for recovery.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work during recovery, as well as potential future earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Costs associated with job retraining or adjustments needed if you cannot return to your former position.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages address the more subjective effects of an injury, such as:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you endure as a result of the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the inability to engage in activities and hobbies you once enjoyed due to your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Compensation for the psychological impact, including anxiety or depression stemming from the accident.
In cases of severe negligence or intentional wrongdoing by the employer, punitive damages may also be pursued to discourage similar behavior in the future. If you or a loved one has been injured on an oil rig, consulting with an experienced oil rig injury attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure you seek the compensation you deserve.
HOUSTON OIL RIG ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS READY TO FIGHT FOR YOU
At Kolodny Law Firm, we strive to help those injured by oil rig accidents. If you or a loved one have suffered skull fractures, burns, loss of limb, spinal injury, or any other injury related to an oil rig accident, our oil rig accident lawyers will aggressively fight for your rights under maritime law. Call us today.