What to Do If You’re Injured in an Offshore Accident
October 15, 2021 @ 3:34 pm
The oilfield and its offshore vessels are an understandably dangerous place to work. There are seemingly infinite factors at play that can increase the likelihood of an accident occurring — especially when safety precautions aren’t followed or processes aren’t enforced to keep workers safe.
The Most Common Accidents in Oil and Gas
If you’ve been injured offshore, you may be wondering what actions you need to take to protect other workers, get compensation and ensure your family is cared for in the future. Here are the four main steps our maritime law specialists suggest taking after an offshore accident takes place.
REPORT INCIDENT TO EMPLOYER
Excluding life-threatening situations where medical services are needed immediately, your first step after an accident offshore is to file an accident report with your employer. Regardless of whether you were on a transport ship or anchored rig, your employer has to document and investigate all incidents occurring within or on their vessels. This accident report will play a significant role in the event you have to go to court for compensation.
GET A MEDICAL EVALUATION
After your report is filed, it’s a good idea to get a medical evaluation from your primary care doctor (or a specialist, if necessary) to look at the injury and assess what further rehabilitation, medication or limitations you may require moving forward. Take photographs of injuries and acquire all relevant medical records pertaining to the accident. Neatly organize all documents regarding your case so your lawyer can easily navigate through the materials. This evaluation and collection of evidence can be used by your lawyers during a case to illustrate your needs for compensation.
CREATE AN OUTLINE OF EVENTS
The more time that passes after your accident, the more likely you (as well as everyone involved) are to forget facts or misremember events that took place. That’s why it’s important to take the time to compile a detailed, step-by-step overview of the events associated with your accident. When you do this, be sure to include every event leading up to the accident through to the current moment. This will help give you an account to reference when speaking with your lawyers or safety investigators at your company.
FIND A MARITIME LAW SPECIALIST
Effectively communicate with your lawyer regarding all aspects of the case. Our team has vast experience in cases related to oilfield injuries, and we’ll evaluate every legal option for you while remaining sensitive to the emotional and financial impact an injury can have.
The Aftermath of Oil and Gas Industry Accidents
GET THE BEST GUIDANCE WITH US
Guarantee that an experienced oil & gas accident lawyer is fighting on your behalf at MMRB&H Law Firm. Our attorneys understand the complexities of offshore accidents and can work with your company to ensure your injuries are taken care of.
