Working in the U.S. oil and gas extraction industry is one of the most dangerous occupations for U.S. workers. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 2003 through 2010, the U.S. oil and gas extraction industry (onshore and offshore, combined) had a fatality rate that was seven times higher than all other industries. For the U.S. oil and gas extraction industry, the fatality rate was 27.1 deaths per 100,000 workers, compared to all other industries at 3.8 deaths per 100,000 workers.
During this seven year period, there were 128 fatalities in activities related to offshore oil and gas operations. All but one of these deaths occurred in drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico. Transportation events were the most common cause of fatal work injuries and comprised 65 of the fatalities. Of these 65 deaths involving transportation, 49 involved air-crafts. Furthermore, nearly one fourth of all the fatalities were classified as “transportation and material moving.”
Following transportation fatalities, the most common causes of fatalities were contact with objects or equipment (21 deaths), fires and explosions (17 deaths), and exposure to harmful substances or environments (16 deaths). These numbers highlight the dangers of working in the U.S. oil and gas extraction industry. It is important that employers take measures to ensure that transportation and other safety guidelines are followed. Unfortunately, too often, oil and gas extraction companies fail to follow applicable guidelines and offshore workers suffer the consequences.
Recovering Compensation for Offshore Injuries: The Jones Act
If you have been injured in an accident at an offshore oil or gas site, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries from your employer. Under the Jones Act, American workers injured at sea while performing their job duties may be able to recover compensation if their employer was negligent… This compensation includes past and future lost wages, medical expenses, and damages for pain and suffering and physical impairment.
Many lawyers, even experienced oil and gas accident attorneys, are not familiar with the intricacies and complexity of the Jones Act. For this reason, it is imperative that you have an experienced maritime lawyer who can advise you of your rights.
Contact the Maritime Lawyers at Zehl & Associates
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury at an offshore oil or gas drilling site, an experienced Texas maritime attorney can help protect your rights. Zehl & Associates employs a team of experienced Texas maritime attorneys who can help you recover compensation for your injuries.
Contact one Zehl & Associates’ maritime lawyers today for a free consultation. You can call us at 1-888-603-3636. Or, you can visit one of our offices located in Houston and Austin.