FAST FACTS
- U.S. workers face an average of 3.8 deaths per 100,000 employees.
- Offshore workers face an average of 27.1 deaths per 100,000 employees.
- Between 2003 and 2010, 128 workers died in offshore operations.
Workers on offshore platforms have important jobs to perform that essentially ensure a comfortable life for the general public. The reality of this work is that it is dangerous. These men and women always have to be aware of the possibility that an accident could happen at any time.
There are few workplaces that have the same amount of potential for serious injury as an offshore platform. From helicopter accidents to explosions, these workers face hazards that the majority of us will never realize.
It’s important to not only know the risks you face as an offshore worker, but your legal rights. Part of understanding your rights is knowing how liability issues could play out in the case of an accident. When an offshore accident occurs, liability isn’t always cut and dry. The person or entity ultimately found liable for the accident will influence how the worker is paid for damages or if they are even paid at all.
Leading Causes of Accidents
The CDC took a close look at offshore oil and gas operations and the accidents that occurred. The agency found that the leading causes of fatalities were:
- Transportation events
- Contact with objects or equipment
- Fire and explosions
- Exposure to harmful substances/environments
Workers found to be the most in danger were:
- Employees of well-servicing companies
- Drilling contractors
- Oil and gas operators
- Transportation and warehousing employees
- Construction employees
- “Other” industry employees
Issues of Liability
Liability determines how a worker recovers damages and what type of legal result occurs. If the worker is found at fault for the accident, they may not only have to pay for their own expenses, but they may find it difficult to find employment within the industry. When the company is found to be liable, they will be forced to pay out damages to anyone injured in the accident.
Other issues arise when a company or their lawyers work to delay a case. A victim cannot wait for payout of damages. Medical bills, lost wages, and more can drastically affect the life of an injured worker and their family. Because of this, the San Luis Obispo personal injury attorney a worker chooses is crucial. A knowledgeable lawyer can investigate not only the incident, but the history of the company and their safety record.
Our San Luis Obispo Personal Injury Lawyers are Here to Help
If you have been injured in such an accident, you deserve to recover damages. It’s that simple. If the company or another employee is liable for the incident leading to your injuries, you have legal rights.
Reach out to a San Luis Obispo personal injury lawyer today to schedule your free case evaluation. We will review every detail of your case and advise you of your best options. The insurance companies may not have your best interests in mind, but we certainly do.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
