Oil rigs provide a prominent source of natural resources to our country. From the first days of the Spindletop wells to the new oil rigs and oil platforms which can dig thousands of feet below the surface, it is clear that the oil and gas industry is a permanent fixture in our economy. The oil and gas workers who spend weeks out at a job site give up family time and risk their own health and safety to perform their job duties. These employees should be properly compensated in case of any unfortunate accidents such as rig explosions.

Oil rig explosions are some of the most frightening work accidents that an employee may be a part of. The Deepwater Horizon explosion in the Gulf of Mexico, while one of the largest and most publicized oil rig explosions, is still an indication of the prevalence of oil rig explosions and the tragic loss of human life that can result.

Many oil rig explosions are often caused by any combination of factors, many unfortunately stemming from human error. These may stem from the failure to conduct a thorough inspection, the failure to properly train an employee, or the failure to recognize hazardous signs.

However, the majority of oil rig explosions (including the Deepwater Horizon explosion) are caused by an oil rig fire. Oil rig fires are typically the result of blowouts, which have been addressed by oil and gas companies in recent years through heightened safety procedures and equipment which can shut off operations in case of potential blowouts. However, the oil and gas industry is unfortunately an inherently dangerous industry and workers should always be prepared to handle themselves in extreme conditions, including oil rig explosions.

Oil rig workers are entitled to recover damages related to their injuries from their employer or the negligent party under various federal statutes. Oil rig explosions are often deadly and can lead to very serious injuries, including severe burns, amputations, spinal cord injuries, and paralysis. A number of workers must be present on an oil rig at all times, thereby increasing the number of potential victims after an explosion. As an injured employee, your claim may cover the following:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Future earnings
• Pain and suffering

An experienced maritime law attorney will be able to assist you in preparing your claim for damages and calculating the total amount you deserve to receive after the explosion.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an oil rig explosion, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley has years of experience in handling oil rig explosion and maritime law claims. Oil rig workers are no different than the sailors of the twentieth century and should be entitled to receive the same form of compensation that sailors are eligible to receive under federal law. Contact our Texas offices today for your initial free consultation.