The oil industry is a pivotal part of the Gulf Coast economy. It also offers some of the riskiest jobs at sea.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Texas oil rig accident, you may benefit from aggressive legal representation. Call our experienced maritime attorneys to learn how we can help. The oil rig accident attorneys at Pierce Skrabanek can fight to secure compensation for you and your family.

Offshore Rig Accidents and Maritime Law

Many offshore accidents involve general maritime law, a specialized body of law that applies to those who work on navigable waters. This is because typical workers’ compensation does not apply in these situations.

The Jones Act is a law was written to protect seaman’s rights. Seamen can sue their employer for negligence and unseaworthiness under this law. This also covers when a rig is operated as a vessel, including rigs that are semisubmersible. Jackups and floaters are also included.

A rig worker is considered a seaman under the Jones Act even if he does not consider himself one.

Types of Oil Rig Accidents

Here are some of the most common oil rig accidents our attorneys see. These oil rig accidents can lead to all sorts of injuries, including burns, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and more. Tragically, sometimes oil rig accidents can be fatal. Working on a vessel at sea or an oil platform is a job full of potential danger.

  • Oil blowouts and oil spills
  • Accidents on oil platform
  • Explosions and fires on rigs
  • Collapses or malfunctions of oil rigs
  • Accidents related to equipment
  • Helicopter accidents during transport to and from oil rigs

Common Types of Injuries Caused by Oil Rig Accidents

Working on oil rigs can be especially dangerous. Because of this, accidents that occur on an oil rig can be very serious and fatal. Traumatic and serious injuries on oil rigs include:

  • Burns
  • Chemical burns
  • Brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Paralysis, partial or permanent
  • Broken bones
  • Loss of limbs

Recovering from the injuries takes time – sometimes months or even years. Many of these victims will miss work for an extended period of time. While they are out of work, medical bills and other financial obligations mount. Victims and their families are then left with no way of paying their bills. When this happens, victims cannot provide the support needed to meet the daily needs for them and their families.

Our lawyers want you to know that, if you or a loved one has been injured in an oil rig accident, you should consult our attorneys before you accept a settlement of any kind from an oil field company or their insurance company. It’s common for these companies to attempt coerce you into settlements that are much lower than you deserve. You don’t have to accept these offers. No matter how minor or severe your injury, you have the right to hire an experienced oil rig accident attorney and seek the maximum compensation allowable by law.

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Common Causes of Oil Rig Accidents

Oil rig accidents can cause any number of injuries. Some of the most common our attorneys see include:

Burns: Because oil, gas and other chemicals used in oil rigs are so extremely flammable, burns often occur in oil rig accidents. These volatile materials and others are present in most oil rigs. When pressure builds up, it can easily cause an explosion, sparking a blaze and lead to serious burns on workers in the area. Burns can also occur from touching toxic chemicals and substances.

Exposure to toxic chemicals and fumes: Rigs often house many toxic chemicals and substances. Extended exposure to the fumes of these substances often causes respiratory problems, damage to the brain and other health conditions in workers.

Brain and head injuries: Oil rig workers are often very high off the ground. Falling from such heights can cause serious head, brain and spinal cord injuries. These injuries can lead to permanent brain damage and sometimes paralysis. Workers can suffer these injuries from equipment that falls from above them, or from a slip and fall in an unsafe work area.

Amputations: Machinery and tools as strong as those on oil rigs can crush or sever limbs and other body parts.

Compensation for Oil Rig Accidents

You may be wondering what type of compensation you can receive if you or someone you loved has suffered an injury on an oil rig. You can receive compensation for injuries, or wrongful death in these areas:

  • Hospital bills
  • Medical equipment
  • Prescriptions
  • Physicians bills
  • Funeral expenses
  • Loss of current and future income
  • Emotional pain and suffering
  • Physical rehabilitation
  • Vocational training and rehabilitation

Testimonials

Read what our past clients have to say about our legal services. 

Daryl M.

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“My experience with Mr. Skrabanek was honestly far better than all expectations that we had. He took care of us like we were family, making sure me and my wife always felt like a priority and walked us through all of the concerns that we had. If you are looking for a professional who truly cares for his clients you can stop the search. You won’t be disappointed.”

Denise J.

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“Mike and his team helped me settle an injury claim case. I was informed and helped through every step and they were always professional and very responsive. I really enjoyed working with them.”

Victoria S.

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“My attorney, Michael, did an amazing job with my case. He’s a straight shooter and has a vast knowledge of the law combined with an extensive amount of experience, making him a fantastic attorney. I fully recommend this firm.

Thank you Pierce Skrabenek!”

Gabriela C.

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“Paul Skrabanek of the law firm Pierce Skrabanek was very professional and went above & beyond in handling my daughter's case. Very dedicated, worked diligently, and got justice for my family. If I could give a higher rating than 5 stars I would. Thank you and your firm for such tenacity.”

Raymond H.

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“These guys are awesome, they were very informative from the beginning to end, working with them was super smooth, and I had all questions answered thoroughly. The whole team at this firm works to help in every way they can. They were able to get me the compensation I deserved and exceeded my expectations. If you’re ever in need of a stellar team to stand behind you and work for you, these guys are the ones you would want in your corner.

Thank you very much Paul and thank your team for me.”

Cam F.

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“Working with Paul Skrabanek was a very positive experience. He helped me understand the legal process as someone who has never been a part of a lawsuit, and was able to get me settled quickly and painlessly! Loved working with Pierce Skrabanek law firm!”

Michele R.

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Michael Pierce and his team, especially Krystle, were very professional, always available (even on weekends), and very knowledgeable. We appreciate their hard work on our case and the time they took to explain every detail as our case progressed. Mike is a phenomenal attorney and we highly recommend them for your legal needs.”

Beverly C.

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“I found Mr. Skrabanek to be very trustworthy, creditable, and genuinely concerned about my well-being while I was going through this very difficult process. He showed constant concern for me being completely satisfied before making any final decisions.”

Diane T.

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“Fantastic team of attorneys and staff dedicated to their clients. Michael Pierce is an outstanding trial attorney for personal injury cases.”

Deborah S.

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“We watched, participated & listened to Paul Skrabanek fight for a settlement which we could be happy with. Just this month the case has been put to rest.”

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Contact an Experienced Oil Rig Accident Attorney

Oil rig accident law is complex and, at times, overwhelming. There are different laws that apply on oil rigs and in maritime accidents that do not apply to everyday jobs on land. If you or a loved one has been injured in an oil rig accident, you need an experienced and passionate oil rig accident attorney on your side.

The oil rig accident lawyers at Pierce Skrabanek can walk you through your case and do whatever it takes to secure you the highest compensation allowable by law. Contact us at 832-690-7000, or contact us online. Our consultations are always free and we’re always waiting to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to recover compensation if I was partially responsible for my accident?

Yes. In many instances, fault does not matter under maritime law. Claims are typically only denied due to fault on the part of the worker if the injuries were sustained while drinking on the job, for example, or getting into a fistfight with a co-worker. Regardless of whose fault you think it was, it is best to speak with an attorney.

How do I know who is responsible for my accident?

It’s often hard to tell who was at fault for your injuries. Many times negligence is only seen when it results in someone’s injury. It’s our firm’s job to investigate these cases and find who is responsible. This could be anyone from your employer to a manufacturer of a piece of equipment that harmed you.

Should I seek immediate medical attention if my oil rig accident injury seems minor?

Yes. Even if your injury seems minor and you think you should keep working, don’t take chances with your health. Visit a doctor immediately and get detailed medical documentation for any injury. Failing to do this could mean you are unable to properly seek compensation later should the condition get worse.

What if a doctor says I did not suffer an injury in my oil rig accident?

If you disagree with a doctor’s diagnosis, consult with another doctor. You don’t have to be held to one doctor’s opinion. Also, remember that you are free to choose your own doctor without interference from your employer.