Mitchell | November 4, 2022 | Personal Injury
Factors that Make Offshore Work a Deadly Occupation
Offshore work is one of the most dangerous occupations in the country. Oil rigs and other extraction platforms are the sites of countless accidents, injuries, and deaths each year. The work is grueling, often requiring long, relentless shifts, exposure to toxic chemicals, and dangerous hazards that can turn one mishap into a fatal mistake.
At Lattof & Lattof, P.C., we represent individuals who have been seriously injured or lost a loved one in an offshore accident. Our experienced attorneys have secured millions of dollars for families throughout Mobile, Alabama, and the surrounding areas. If you were injured in an offshore accident, contact our office at (251) 432-6691 to schedule a free case evaluation.
How Many People Are Killed Doing Offshore Work Each Year?
Outside of transportation, construction and extraction workers have the highest numbers of fatalities for any occupation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 976 fatal work injuries in the construction and extraction industries in a single year (2020). Offshore work, including oil and gas extraction, is particularly dangerous resulting in dozens of deaths each year.
As reported by the BLS, there were 386 oil and gas extraction workers were killed over a 5-year period (2016-2020). Studies have shown that offshore oil and gas worker fatalities are not only extraordinarily high compared to other occupations, but they are also often underreported.
What Makes Offshore and Oil Rig Work Dangerous?
There are several factors that make offshore and oil rig work dangerous. Many of the things that contribute to deadly offshore accidents are preventable, caused by negligence, inexperience, or recklessness.
Common causes of offshore work injuries:
- Lack of safety equipment
- Insufficient training
- Worker fatigue
- Malfunctioning machinery or equipment
- Extreme weather
- Lack of ventilation in storage tanks and confined spaces
- Unsafe drilling practices and procedures
If you are injured in an oil rig accident, it is important to speak with an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible. A lawyer can help you understand all of your legal options including whether you are eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit.
What Are the Most Frequent Types of Offshore Accidents?
Offshore accidents can include any incident on an oil rig, jack-up rig, or other offshore extraction platforms.
Types of offshore accidents:
- Explosions
- Fires
- Transportation accidents
- Crane and equipment accidents
- Helicopter accidents
- Struck-by accidents
- Electrocution
- Fall-related accidents
In the event that you are injured or lose a loved one in an offshore accident, you might be entitled to compensation. A lawyer can help conduct an investigation to determine what caused the accident and who can be held liable.
Offshore and oil rig accidents are often complex matters involving multiple parties and a complicated legal process to file a claim. It is always in your best interest to consult with an offshore accident lawyer before making a statement or accepting a settlement on your case.
Hurt While Working Offshore? Contact Our Office for a Free Consultation
Were you hurt while working on an oil rig or other offshore platform? Contact our office at (251) 432-6691 to discuss your case with a member of our legal team. All consultations are free and confidential. Call now to see how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.