If you have been involved in a drilling rig accident, or if you have a blowout injury, then it is important that you know your rights. You will likely be entitled to compensation.
While we are not construction injury lawyers that are experts in exactly your type of case, we feel it is important that you clue yourself up. Here are some things you should know.
What is a Drilling Rig or Blowout Accident?
Drilling rigs are positioned out at sea and are commonly known as ‘rigs. Rig workers are those drillers, technicians, and other support staff who work for weeks (or even months) at a time, out at sea. When one of these rigs explodes, or blows out the way, it can cause unprecedented harm to these workers.
The most common example we know of was back in 2010, when the Deepwater Horizon oil drilling rig exploded. The rig was owned by BP and was situated miles from the Louisiana coastline. 11 workers were dead on the scene, 17 more were injured in the blast. The explosion sent flames and black, oil-ridden smoke up into the air. It required tugs of water to put it out and recover the injured parties.
Have You Suffered from Rig or Blowout Injuries?
The types of injuries suffered in these incidents are understandably horrific. They range from broken arms and legs to severe burns, all over the body. Blowouts can be even worse, with preventative measures theoretically in place on every rig. In the worst case, people die. If they are blown out there is a risk of drowning. If they are not, there is a risk of burning.
If you have been involved in one of these accidents while on the job, then you should have a claim. It doesn’t matter if you were thrown into the ocean or if all you received was a minor injury. While you are working on the rig, your employer has a duty of care to you. It is your right to be protected from danger while you are in that care.
Your employer must take all reasonable assurance to prevent you getting injured. If they don’t (or even if they do, but you still get hurt) then they are liable for that. You will be entitled to medical compensation and to any monetary loss you have as a result. For example, if you are unable to work for weeks because of your injury, then you will be losing out on a wage. Your employer is liable to cover this.
After your accident, you should concentrate on recovery. However, you still have rights. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to make a claim for compensation. Your employer takes out public liability insurance for exactly this reason. Don’t feel guilty about claiming what you are entitled to. If you were injured in a rig accident, then it is the rig that needs to cover your medical bills and make sure that your family is provided for. Fair is fair.
