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Oil Rig Accidents

Oil Rig Accident Attorney in Corpus Christi 

An oil rig accident is a life-altering event with potentially devastating consequences. Victims often face catastrophic injuries, extensive medical treatments, and the inability to return to their demanding profession. These accidents can lead to complex legal battles involving state, federal, and international laws, including the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act.

Oil rig work is demanding and inherently dangerous. It takes a special kind of grit and determination to do the job, and those who do deserve to know that their rights are protected. Our team at Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys has stood with injured oil rig workers since 1992, fighting for the compensation they deserve after an accident.

We know the dangers firsthand: the heavy machinery, the volatile conditions, the long hours, and the potential for catastrophic injury. We also know the law. We understand the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, and the complex interplay of state and federal regulations that govern offshore operations.

Our track record speaks for itself. With over 2,000 cases handled and over $200 million recovered for our clients, our team is well-qualified to fight on your behalf. We don't back down from a challenge, and we don't settle for less than what our clients deserve.

Our team is on your side. We can guide you through this difficult time and fight for the compensation you deserve.

We are available 24/7, offer virtual consultations, and our staff speaks Spanish. Call (361) 310-5299 to schedule a free case consultation with an oil rig accident attorney in Corpus Christi today.

Employer Negligence Under the Jones Act

The Jones Act is a federal law that provides important legal protections for seamen who are injured in the course of their employment. To qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, an individual must contribute to the function of a vessel or fleet of vessels that are in navigation. This can include certain oil rig workers, particularly those working on mobile offshore drilling units or vessels that travel between locations.

If you qualify as a seaman under the Jones Act, you have the right to sue your employer for negligence if your injuries were caused by their failure to provide a safe working environment. 

This can encompass a wide range of situations, including:

  • Failure to provide adequate safety equipment: Employers are obligated to provide necessary safety equipment, such as harnesses, lifelines, fire-resistant clothing, and functioning safety devices. If an injury occurs due to a lack of proper equipment or faulty equipment, the employer could be held liable.
  • Inadequate training or supervision: Workers must be professionally trained on how to operate equipment and perform their job duties safely. Inadequate training, lack of proper supervision, or assigning workers to tasks beyond their skill level can create hazardous conditions and lead to employer liability.
  • Unseaworthy vessel or equipment: The Jones Act requires employers to provide a seaworthy vessel and equipment. This means that the vessel and all its components must be fit for their intended purpose. If an injury is caused by defective or poorly maintained equipment, or if the vessel itself is in an unsafe condition, the employer could be held liable.
  • Negligence of fellow crew members: Under the Jones Act, employers can also be held liable for the negligence of coworkers if their actions contributed to your injuries.

It's important to note that the Jones Act holds employers to a higher standard of care than regular negligence laws. Even a slight amount of negligence on the part of the employer could lead to liability if it contributed to the injury.

Don't let uncertainty leave you adrift. Contact Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation. If you believe your Corpus Christi oil rig accident may fall under the Jones Act, it's crucial to consult with an experienced maritime attorney. 

Third-Party Liability in Oil Rig Accidents

Oil rig accidents often involve a complex web of relationships between various companies and contractors. While your employer may bear some responsibility for your injuries, it's crucial to remember that other entities might also be liable. 

These third parties can include:

  • Equipment manufacturers: A critical aspect of oil rig safety lies in the reliability of the equipment. If a defective piece of machinery, such as a drilling component, safety device, or even a faulty hand tool, contributed to your accident, the manufacturer of that equipment could be held liable. 
  • Contractors and subcontractors: Oil rigs are hives of activity, with specialized tasks often outsourced to various contractors. If a contractor's negligence played a role in the accident, they could be held accountable. 
  • Service and maintenance companies: Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment are essential to prevent oil rig accidents. Companies responsible for these crucial tasks can be held liable if their failure to identify or address hazards led to your injuries. This could include anything from overlooking a critical structural flaw during an inspection to neglecting necessary repairs.

Identifying and pursuing claims against these third parties can be vital in securing the full compensation you deserve. At Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys, we conduct thorough investigations, leaving no stone unturned in our quest to determine all responsible parties. We possess the experience and resources to handle complex litigation against large corporations and their insurance companies, fighting tirelessly to obtain the best possible outcome for our clients.

If you've been injured in an oil rig accident, workers' compensation is not your only option. Our team can help you seek damages that are not available in standard workers' compensation or personal injury claims.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation and understand your rights.

Maritime Law Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much is my case worth?

    It's impossible to determine the value of your case without knowing the specifics. Factors like the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and liability all play a crucial role.

    To get an accurate assessment, contact us for a free consultation. We'll review your situation and provide a personalized evaluation.

  • Why should I seek compensation?

    If you have been injured on the job, you could be facing hefty hospital bills and an extended recovery time. That can mean losing out on crucial work wages and potentially going into debt.

    There are many protections that state and federal laws offer maritime workers to compensate for the dangers and the inconveniences of sea-based jobs. You may be due maintenance and cure as well as further financial compensation from your employer.

    Seeking monetary recompense through the law means safeguarding your financial stability so that your injury does not unduly burden you and your family.

  • Why should I choose Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys?
    • Extensive experience: We have handled over 2,000 cases and recovered over $200 million for our clients. We have in-depth knowledge of personal injury law, including workplace accidents and maritime law.
    • Focus on third-party liability: We primarily work on third-party liability workplace injury cases. This means we pursue claims against negligent parties other than your employer, such as property owners, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or other responsible entities.
    • Thorough investigation: We conduct comprehensive investigations to gather critical evidence and build a strong case on your behalf. We work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and other professionals to help determine the cause of your accident and identify all liable parties.
    • No fees unless we win: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don't pay our attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you.
    • 24/7 availability: We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns. We understand that accidents can happen at any time and can provide support when you need it most.

Why choose our firm our unique approach sets us apart from other firms

  • Trial-Tested & Ready
    We prepare every case as if it's going to trial.
  • Accessibility Redefined
    We believe in open communication and responsiveness. You can contact your attorney 24/7.
  • Client-Centered Approach
    Your needs and well-being are at the forefront of everything we do.
  • Embracing Technology
    We leverage technology to enhance your experience.
  • Champions of Diversity in South Texas
    We are committed to advocating for all individuals, regardless of their background.
Proven Personal Injury Law Returning Dignity & Financial Security to Our Clients

How Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys Can Help Your Corpus Christi Oil Rig Accident Case

We approach every oil rig accident case with meticulous attention to detail at Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys. Our legal team is prepared to conduct a comprehensive investigation into your case, examining all aspects of the incident to uncover the truth and identify responsible parties. We analyze safety protocols, scrutinize equipment maintenance records, and gather witness testimonies to construct a compelling case that supports your claim.

Maritime law is a complex and specialized field. We possess a deep understanding of its intricacies, including the Jones Act and other applicable statutes. By carefully assessing the specific circumstances of your case, we can identify the most relevant legal framework and develop a strategic plan to pursue the compensation you deserve.   

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our experienced negotiators stand firm against these tactics and are prepared to advocate for you. We can handle all communication with insurance companies, endeavoring to secure a settlement that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.

We recognize that the impact of an oil rig accident extends far beyond immediate medical costs. Our team meticulously calculates your damages, considering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential loss of earning capacity. We can also help you seek damages unique to your situation. For instance, under maritime law, injured seamen are entitled to "maintenance and cure" benefits, which cover their daily living expenses and medical treatment until they reach maximum medical improvement. We aim to provide a complete picture of your losses, both current and future, to maximize your potential recovery.

While many cases are resolved through negotiation, we are always prepared for trial. Our skilled trial lawyers possess extensive courtroom experience. We are ready to build and present a persuasive case to a judge and jury. Our team prepares every case as if it will go to trial, so that we are always in a position of strength when fighting for your rights.

Work with a legal team that genuinely cares about your recovery. Call (361) 310-5299 or contact Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys online to schedule a free case consultation with an oil rig accident attorney in Corpus Christi today.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice regarding your specific situation.

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