Operating a jack-up rig is one of the most dangerous jobs worldwide. Drilling companies rely on jack-up rigs to drill offshore oil wells. Workers are required to use complex machines and heavy equipment, increasing their risk of a work-related injury.
A reputable jack-up rig accident lawyer from Pierce Skrabanek can support you or a loved one through injury. With our maritime injury lawyer working for you, you can hold the at-fault party accountable.
You deserve fair compensation and peace of mind to focus on your recovery. We are here to help you protect your rights by taking legal action against those responsible for causing your jack-up rig accident.
Contact our law office by phone at (832) 690-7000 or through our online contact form for a free consultation today. Learn which legal options are suitable for your case and your potential award if we are successful.
“Excellent team, very knowledgeable and extremely helpful in explaining and staying in contact throughout the entire process. Highly recommend for anyone needing assistance. Thank you so much to the entire staff. Awesome experience.”
- Albert G.
Understanding How Jack-Up Rigs Work
Jack-up rig accidents are much different from other accidents on navigable waters. Many assume they resemble tugboat, cruise, or container ship accidents. However, jack-up rigs are an entirely different matter.
Jack-up rigs are mobile offshore drilling units that drill into the ocean floor. They are the most common oil rigs used to drill offshore wells. Safety inspectors and offshore oil companies operate these rigs.
Oil companies use jack-up rigs for their drilling operations. Since the legs can raise and lower, jack-up rigs can move from place to place.
Jack-up rigs are considered "navigable vessels," as the US Department of Labor OALJ LHWCA Benchbook describes. Thus, their workers are seamen and subject to protection under the Jones Act.
The Jones Act protects American maritime workers by allowing them to sue their employers for injuries incurred due to negligence. It provides compensation similar to workers' compensation in other industries.
Jack-Up Rig Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injuries
Suffering a maritime injury is never easy. Those who suffer oil rig injuries may suffer permanent disability or death as a result of a maritime accident. Some of the most common types of injuries are:
- Back injuries
- Concussion
- Death
- Dental injuries
- Neck injuries
- Paralysis
- Skin lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
How Do Jack-Up Rig Accidents Occur?
With the legal support of a jack-up rig accident lawyer from Pierce Skrabanek, you can demand justice for your suffering.
No matter the injury, our team is here to identify faults and build a powerful case against those responsible. We aim to help you maximize your financial compensation and ensure you have access to the benefits you need to pick up the pieces of your life.
Don't hesitate to contact our legal team to request a free consultation. Call (832) 690-7000 or use our online contact form when you are ready to take back control of your future.
You can expect your jack-up rig injury attorney to investigate the cause of your maritime accident carefully. We need to determine how the accident occurred to know who should be named in insurance and civil claims. Some of the most common types of jack-up rig accidents include:
- Electrocution
- Equipment defects
- Explosions
- Failure to follow safety precautions
- Falling machinery
- Falls from elevated heights
- Fires
- Heavy lifting accidents
- Inclement weather
- Loose cables
- Loss of well control
- Oil rig collapses
- Punch through events
- Rig collapse
Compensation Under the Jones Act
“Working on a jack-up oil rig is one of the world's most challenging—and often dangerous—jobs. When accidents occur, holding those responsible accountable is paramount for your recovery and the safety of every worker on the rig.”
-Paul Skrabanek
Your jack-up rig accident lawyer can file your claim under the Jones Act. The benefits you can expect to collect will vary depending on the circumstances of your case. However, generally, there are three categories of settlements you can receive under the Jones Act, including:
Cure
Cure is similar to workers’ compensation benefits, specifically the total value of your medical expenses relating to your jack-up rig accident. There is no reason you should have to pay if your accident occurred in a work-related incident.
Your employer will be expected to cover your medical expenses, including ongoing counseling or physical therapy and future expenses due to your oil rig injuries.
Maintenance
Maintenance refers to the costs of your everyday living. When you suffer an injury in a jack-up rig accident, you may need to take time off work to recuperate. During this time, you may find yourself struggling to stay afloat financially.
Maintenance is designed to cover these expenses. It covers rent or mortgage payments, groceries, or electricity. If your employer refuses to pay maintenance and cure, you may be eligible for punitive or exceptional damages.
Personal Injury Damages
Beyond maintenance and cure, you may be entitled to additional compensation for losses caused by your jack-up rig accident. This can include compensation for non-financial hardships, such as pain and suffering. Remember, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a claim.