Lawyers Who Represent You After an Oil Rig Work Injury

The process of seeking repayment for a workplace injury can be challenging and confusing. Experienced Louisiana oil rig injury lawyers can guide oil rig workers or their families through the process and ensure that their rights are protected.

If you have been injured while working on an oil rig due to the action or inaction of a supervisor, coworker, third-party contractor, or even the company itself, you need strong legal representation.

Domengeaux Wright Roy & Edwards LLC has been helping injured offshore workers for over 65 years and has the experience necessary to handle these types of claims. Rather than facing your claim alone, let us help reach the best possible outcome.

Common Causes of Oil Rig Injuries

Oil rig workers face many dangers while working offshore. Not only do they work in potentially dangerous working conditions, but they may also be required to use heavy machinery and perform physically demanding tasks. Poor training, the negligence of managers or coworkers, or equipment failure can lead to devastating injuries.

Common oil rig injuries include:

• Burns from heat, fire, or chemicals
• Fractures and broken bones from heavy machinery or falling objects
• Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel and tendinitis
• Hearing loss due to loud equipment
• Injuries resulting from a lack of training
• Back injuries, such as herniated discs, sprains, and strains
• Respiratory issues due to chemical exposure
• Slip and fall injuries from high decks or on wet or uneven surfaces

What Can a Worker Lose From an Oil Rig Injury?

The repercussions of these injuries can be life-altering, leading to chronic pain, emotional distress, or even the tragic loss of life. For many, the impact extends beyond physical damage, resulting in significant financial strain due to mounting medical bills and lost wages, which can deeply affect you and your family.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to an oil rig injury, an experienced oil rig injury law firm in Louisiana can help fight for the compensation you deserve and provide the support you need during this challenging time.

Louisiana Oil Rig Injury Lawyers Fight For Your Compensation

After suffering an injury in an oil rig incident, workers should fight for full workers’ compensation. This can provide financial support to cover medical expenses and lost income, protect workers from unfair treatment, and ensure fair payment. 

Unfortunately, a business does not always look out for the rights of its workers. The business’s insurance company may offer a lower payment than the victim deserves or even deny a claim. And in some cases, employers may take actions against workers who file workers’ compensation claims. This may result in job loss or demotion.

With over 65 years of experience in personal injury law, our firm represents workers and fights hard for the justice they deserve. Don’t go up against insurance companies alone. Choose the law firm that Lafayette trusts.

Understanding the Jones Act for Oil Rig Injuries

Many offshore and oil rig injuries fall under unique federal laws. The Jones Act is a powerful legal tool that allows maritime workers to pursue compensation after an injury caused by an employer’s negligence or an unseaworthy vessel. Unlike standard workers’ compensation, the Jones Act may let you recover additional damages such as pain and suffering and lost future wages.

A seasoned oil rig injury attorney from an experienced oil rig injury law firm in Louisiana can determine if the Jones Act applies to your claim. If you qualify as a “seaman,” including many oil rig, platform, work boat, and barge workers, this law may significantly increase your compensation. Our Louisiana oil rig injury lawyers handle Jones Act claims and know how to hold companies accountable for unsafe conditions, defective equipment, or inadequate training.

Offshore vs. Inland Oil Rig Accidents

The cause of your injury and where it happened play a big part in what laws protect you. Offshore accidents typically involve platforms, jack-up rigs, and drilling ships in the Gulf of America. These cases are often governed by maritime law, including the Jones Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.

Inland or land-based rig accidents, on the other hand, may fall under Louisiana workers’ compensation law or standard personal injury law. With so many different regulations, it’s critical to consult an oil rig injury attorney who can identify the best legal strategy for your circumstances. Whether your accident occurred in the marsh, at a refinery, or far out at sea, you need a law firm that understands both inland and maritime claims.

Statute of Limitations: Do Not Wait to Take Action

Every oil rig injury case is governed by strict filing deadlines, called the statute of limitations. Federal law typically governs maritime injuries, which gives you three years to file a lawsuit from the date of the injury, negligence, or death.

However, there are exceptions. The Discovery Rule may extend this deadline if you were not immediately aware of your injury or its cause. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar you from recovering damages. That’s why contacting an oil platform injury attorney from our Lafayette firm as soon as possible after an injury is so important. Acting quickly gives your legal team the time needed to gather evidence, build your case, and protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I sue my employer or do I only get workers’ compensation?

Depending on where and how your injury occurred, you may have rights beyond standard workers’ comp. Under the Jones Act and maritime law, you may be able to seek damages for negligence or unsafe vessels, in addition to traditional benefits.

2. How soon do I need to report an oil rig injury?

Report your injury to your supervisor immediately. Failing to report right away can jeopardize your right to compensation. Next, contact our Louisiana oil rig injury lawyers to protect your claim and start the legal process.

3. What should I do if the insurance company offers a settlement?

Do not sign or accept any settlement until you speak with an experienced oil rig injury attorney. Insurance companies often offer less than you deserve. A dedicated oil rig injury law firm in Louisiana will evaluate any offer and fight for the compensation you truly need.

4. Can I get help if my family member died in an oil rig accident?

Yes. Families who lose loved ones due to oil rig or platform accidents may have wrongful death or survival claims. Our lawyers provide compassionate support and experienced legal counsel to help you seek justice and compensation.

Award-Winning Louisiana Oil Rig Injury Lawyers

When disaster strikes, you need representation you can trust. Taking on insurance companies or the responsible party on your own can result in lower payments or denied payment. Partner with lawyers who will fight to get you the largest payment for your injuries.