Oil Tanker Injury Lawyers
We are dedicated to helping those who have been injured or affected by a catastrophic injury. You may contact us 24/7 at (832) 690-7000 for a free, confidential consultation or to schedule an appointment with us.
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Offshore oil workers have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. These tankers carry oil across international waters. However, the process of extracting and refining oil might put workers at risk of catastrophic injury or death.
If someone else's negligence contributed to your injuries, you can take legal action against them. Our oil tanker injury attorneys have recovered millions for accident survivors.
Pierce Skrabanek uses our 30+ years of combined legal experience and extensive resources to help build a claim against the party at fault. Call our office at (832) 690-7000 or complete our quick contact form to schedule a free consultation as soon as possible. Our dedicated maritime injury lawyer can help you discuss your legal options.
“These guys are awesome, they were very informative from 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.”
Raymond H.
Oil Tanker Injuries Are a Growing Problem Across the Globe
Oil tanker accidents differ greatly from container ship accidents, tugboat accidents, or ferry boat accidents. They are more common and deadly than the former categories combined.
It may surprise you to learn how often oil tanker accidents occur. Ten oil tanker spills occurred across the world in 2023 alone. Additionally, data provided by Statista reveals:
- Since 1967, the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF) documented over 700 tons of oil spills.
- Between 2010 and 2020, 28,198 ships were involved in 29,469 marine casualties and incidents, 1,815 of which were oil tankers.
- The Sanchi tanker collision in 2018 killed every crew member and spilled 113,000 metric tons of condensate into the East China Sea.
- An estimated 80% of oil tanker accidents that cause oil spills at sea are a result of human error.
Wondering if you should hire a maritime lawyer? Having a legal representative with 30+ years of trial experience on your side could make all the difference. Our lawyers are inductees of the million-dollar and multimillion-dollar advocates' forum. We’ve successfully recovered over $500 million in damages for our clients and their families.
When you need an oil tanker accident lawyer with a career devoted to industrial and maritime injury accidents, choose Pierce Skrabanek. Explore every opportunity for justice with our legal team. Contact us by phone at (832) 690-7000 or through our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
What to Do after a Catastrophic Oil Tanker Accident
A serious oil tanker accident can be life-changing. While it may be difficult, staying calm after an injury will help you perform the necessary actions to protect your claim. These are the most important steps to take in the minutes and hours following your oil tanker accident:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Don't wait to get medical help. You may initially believe your injuries are minor, but the trauma you suffered could be permanently disabling. After the accident, getting medical attention as soon as possible can only benefit your case. Through treatment, you can build compelling medical records to prove the severity of your injuries.
Whether you seek benefits through a personal injury lawsuit, the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA), or the Jones Act, immediately documenting your injuries is necessary. If you don’t seek medical attention immediately after the accident, the defense could argue your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Collect Supporting Evidence
Collecting as much evidence as possible before emergency officials arrive may be best. The burden of proof is usually based on the availability of evidence. The following are some examples of valuable evidence for your oil tanker ship injury lawsuit:
- Statements from witnesses
- Photos of your injuries
- Video footage of the oil tanker accident
- Data from the oil tanker’s black box
- Photos of the incident or damage
- Medical reports or recordings
Report the Accident to Your Employer
You must also notify your employer about the accident. The deadline for notification depends on the type of compensation you seek. Generally, if you're filing a claim under the Jones Act, you must notify employers within seven days of the accident.
As the Department of Labor states, if you seek benefits through the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act, you have 30 days from the accident date to notify your employer.
Consult a Reputable Oil Tanker Injury Law Firm
Consult our oil tanker injury lawyers from Pierce Skrabanek as soon as possible. While you focus on healing, our team will handle the specific circumstances of your case. We will investigate, obtain evidence, and build a compelling case against those responsible.
Reach out to schedule a free consultation. Contact our legal team at (832) 690-7000 or through our online contact form.
Common Causes of Oil Tanker Injuries and Accidents
Maritime work can be dangerous. If you work on an oil tanker ship and suffer devastating injuries on the job, you may have the right to certain types of benefits and compensation. These accidents usually occur due to:
- Dangerous weather conditions
- Lack of communication
- Machinery and equipment malfunctions
- Mistakes made by oil tanker workers
Due to the inherent danger present on these vessels, employers must adhere to safety practices. If employers fail to do so, negligence could occur. Our team can assist you in safeguarding your recovery rights and pursuing measures to hold negligent parties responsible.
Common Types of Oil Tanker Accidents
The type of oil tanker accident you experienced establishes liability for your injuries and compensation. An in-depth investigation will reveal the cause of your accident and identify the appropriate parties to sue for damages. Oil tankers frequently report the following types of accidents:
- Fires and explosions
- Exposure to toxic gasses such as hydrocarbons, benzene, or hydrogen sulfide
- Malfunctioning equipment or machinery
- Improper use of machinery or equipment
- Slip and fall accidents on poorly maintained floors
- Injuries caused by repetitive heavy lifting
- Failure to maintain equipment or machinery
- Being struck by falling cargo
Common Injuries in an Oil Tanker Accident
Oil rig injuries can be physically and emotionally taxing. Injuries in an oil tanker accident can cause chronic pain or permanent disability. Some of the most common types of injuries reported include:
- Crushing injuries
- Third-degree burns
- Broken and fractured bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Sprains and bruising
- Near drownings and drownings
- Concussion
- Hearing loss
- Spinal cord injuries
- Respiratory illnesses
- Paralysis
- Loss of limbs
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for oil tanker accident victims to suffer fatal injuries. In this case, surviving family members may be able to recover benefits on the decedent's behalf. The type of claim you file will be based on how your loved one's injuries occurred.
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How Can a Maritime Lawyer Help Me after an Oil Tanker Ship Accident?
You need an oil tanker injury law firm that will use its resources and legal knowledge to prioritize your best interests. According to a Martindale-Nolo study, clients who retain legal counsel are more likely to receive a fair settlement than those that don't. Our lawyers fight tirelessly on behalf of injury victims, accident survivors, and their family members. When you choose Pierce Skrabanek, you can expect:
- An in-depth investigation into liability
- A deep understanding of international maritime laws
- A personalized approach to your oil tanker accident claim
- Assistance in negotiations with insurance companies and employers
When you are ready to rebuild your life, our law office is ready to support you. Reach out today for a free consultation.
How to Recover Maximum Compensation in an Oil Tanker Ship Injury Lawsuit
Your oil tanker accident lawyer can help you understand how to take action. You may be able to recover the compensation you deserve in several ways. Maritime injury settlements can include compensation across multiple claims.
The Jones Act
If you work offshore, you may need a Jones Act lawyer. Only workers classified as seamen have the right to file a claim under the Jones Act. Seamen may qualify for the following benefits in a maritime accident claim:
- Maintenance: This covers the total value of your living expenses, including rent or mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, and other necessities.
- Cure: This covers the total medical expenses for your oil tanker injury.
- Compensatory damages: Due to the unique nature of Jones Act claims, you may also be eligible for compensatory damages, including pain and suffering, lost income, diminished earning potential, diminished quality of life, and other economic and non-economic damages.
Recently, Michael E. Pierce of our team served as first chair trial attorney in a lawsuit alleging that a drilling company failed to provide sanitary water to its employees aboard a drilling rig in the Persian Gulf. Both Texas Lawyer and VerdictSearch Texas Top Verdicts of 2014 recognized the Tillman verdict as the largest maritime verdict in the state at the time.
Michael's counsel was also vital to another $14 million Jones Act case where a client suffered a head injury on the Hercules 15 Inland Barge. Hercules settled the entire case for $14 million on the eve of the trial.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA)
Not all oil tanker employees are considered seamen. However, workers not considered seamen qualify for benefits provided through the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA). Through LHWCA, workers can access benefits similar to any state's mandated workers’ compensation.
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Contact Pierce Skrabanek: Oil Tanker Injury Attorneys and Demand Justice Today
Along with emotional and financial distress, the trauma of an oil tanker accident may leave you with permanent disability. Navigating the complexities of maritime injury laws requires the knowledge and diligence of reputable oil tanker injury attorneys.
That's why Pierce Skrabanek has spent decades protecting the rights of oil rig and tanker workers across the country. Let us help you demand the compensation and benefits you deserve.
Our firm proudly offers complimentary case evaluations nationwide to oil tanker workers and accident survivors. We are ready and willing to use our resources to help you get the justice you deserve. Fill out our confidential contact form or call our office at (832) 690-7000 to start your claim today.
What Our Clients Are Saying About Us
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still pursue legal action if my injury was partially my fault?
Maritime laws often allow for compensation even if you were partially at fault. Under comparative negligence, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your fault, but you can still recover damages.
How long does it take to resolve an oil tanker injury case?
The timeline varies depending on the case's complexity and whether it goes to trial. Some cases may settle in a few months, while others can take over a year, especially if they involve substantial evidence and expert testimony.
How can a lawyer help if I’m already receiving workers’ compensation?
A lawyer can assess whether you’re receiving full benefits and explore additional compensation through other maritime laws like the Jones Act, which could provide further damages beyond workers’ comp.
How can hiring a lawyer increase my chances of a successful claim?
A lawyer experienced in maritime law can navigate complex legal procedures, gather critical evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries. A Martindale-Nolo study shows that survivors seeking justice with a legal representative receive higher settlements than if they chose to settle alone.
We’re Here for You:
Real Results for Real Challenges
We know how tough things can get after an injury. That’s why we make your struggles our fight. With over three decades of combined experience, we’ve been the reliable allies our clients need, tackling financial hardships, physical pain, and major life changes. Our track record of successful verdicts and settlements speaks to our team’s passion and dedication to helping clients get the support and justice they need.
$2.4 Million Verdict for Injured Refinery Worker
Summary: Paul helped an injured refinery worker obtain a $2.4 Million verdict in the 80th Judicial District of Harris County. The jury award was unanimous. Paul took three of the seven witnesses at trial and got a defense expert struck on voir dire during trial. The Plaintiff suffered second and third-degree burns to 20% of his body. His claims were against an engineering company that designed the equipment that caused his injuries. Defendant’s final offer prior to trial was $135,000.
$975,000 Settlement on Behalf of Injured Jones Act Seaman
Summary: The seaman, a rigger on an offshore vessel, suffered a severe back injury transferring a tank from the vessel to a platform in the Gulf of Mexico. Due to the severity of his injuries, the seaman was required to undergo surgery to the lower area of his back. The defendants denied all responsibility for the accident and refused to pay maintenance and cure, claiming that his injuries were pre-existing.
