The ocean, despite its beauty, can be an unforgiving and treacherous workplace, especially for those involved in the offshore oil industry. Accidents, while always tragic, can become even more harrowing when they result in the loss of life. If you’ve lost a loved one in an offshore oilfield accident, you might be eligible to file for a wrongful death claim. As seasoned maritime accident attorneys, Schechter, Shaffer & Harris are here to guide you through this complex process.
Common Causes of Offshore Oilfield Accident Deaths
Here is a breakdown of some common causes of fatalities in offshore oilfield accidents, encompassing a diverse set of factors:
Explosions and Fires: Oil is highly flammable, and when safety standards aren’t strictly adhered to, catastrophic explosions and fires can occur, causing fatalities.
Equipment Malfunction: Machinery used on oil rigs is complex and requires meticulous maintenance. Any malfunction can lead to severe accidents and, unfortunately, fatalities.
Falls Overboard and Drownings: Poor safety measures and harsh weather conditions often lead to workers falling overboard, resulting in drowning.
Hazardous Chemical Exposure: Prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals used in oil extraction can result in life-threatening conditions.
Vessel Collisions: Navigational errors or equipment failure can cause ships to collide, causing severe injuries or even death.
Poorly Trained Personnel: Insufficient training can lead to accidents due to negligence or improper handling of equipment.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
When an offshore oilfield accident results in death, it’s a devastating event. In many instances, families of the deceased are eligible to file for wrongful death claims. Wrongful death is a legal term referring to a claim that can be brought by family members when their loved one has died due to the negligence or misconduct of another.
A wrongful death claim seeks to provide compensation for those left behind, including compensation for loss of income, emotional pain and suffering, and funeral costs. As maritime accident attorneys, we have extensive experience in handling such claims.
Have You Lost a Loved One in an Offshore Oilfield Accident?
Our team of experienced maritime accident attorneys at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris is here to help. Our profound understanding of the Jones Act, maritime laws, and the oil industry can help you navigate this challenging time. We are committed to holding the responsible parties accountable and fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
The loss of a loved one in an offshore oilfield accident is tragic, and knowing the path forward can be challenging. If you find yourself needing legal assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for a free confidential case review.
