Offshore Injuries
Offshore injuries are incredibly unique. Typically, an offshore injury does not fall under a particular set of state laws. A myriad of federal and international laws regulate those injuries that occur on the ocean and in the intracoastal waterways. The law controlling the injury claim will depend on many factors, including: the location of the injury, the type of vessel on which the injury occurred, the employer of the injured worker, the occupation of the injured worker and many others. Picking a lawyer with the right combination of brains, common sense and experience can be your most important starting point.
Jones Act
Many offshore injuries, including on offshore oil rigs, are covered by the Jones Act. Settlements in Jones Act injury cases can be significant, but the law is very complex. Injured workers should consult with a lawyer early in the case and be aware of the employer’s desire to minimize their losses.
Another type of offshore injury are those involved in the day-to-day operation of constructing, loading and unloading vessels are subject to the Longshoremans’ and Harbor workers’ Compensation Act (LHCA). Administrated by the U.S. Department of Labor, injured longshoremen can quickly find themselves overwhelmed by the vast law.
Oil Production Rigs
Some offshore injuries result from oil production rigs are permanently attached to the ocean floor. Federal law provides protection for those injured aboard these facilities. Administrated by the U.S. Department of Labor, The Longshoreman’s and Harbor Worker’s Relief Act provides medical care and temporary income for those employees injured while working in facilities that provide loading and unloading services for seagoing vessels.
Offshore Drilling Rigs
Workers involved in offshore injuries that occurred aboard Offshore Drilling Rigs, especially floating drilling platforms are typically covered under the Jones Act. The Jones Act is a federal law that provides for benefits to workers who are injured on sea going vessels on navigable waters and offshore oilrigs, which can be towed and are not permanently affixed to the ocean floor.
Located in Houston, Texas, the Ogletree Abbott Law Firm is the state’s leading Workers’ Comp Law Firm. We offer free personal, confidential information via Live Attorney Chat, Email or by our international Toll-Free telephone number 1-888-434-COMP or 713-223-1234. E-Communicate or speak directly to one of our workers’ comp lawyers at no cost to you. The initial consultation is Free. Remember, the more information you get, the better choices you will make. We are ready to help you with your offshore injury claim.