Metairie Drilling Accident Attorneys
Offshore oil rigs are dangerous places to work, and accidents can cause devastating injuries. If you have been injured in an oil rig or while being transported to an oil rig, you may be entitled to full compensation under a federal law known as the Jones Act.
At the Ates Law Firm, we are here to help you if you have been injured on an oil rig or while being transported to an oil rig. We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and explain your rights. With law offices in Destrehan and Gretna, our lawyers represent oil rig workers in Greater New Orleans, the River Parishes and throughout Louisiana.
Whenever you are injured on the job, you are entitled to workers' compensation benefits regardless of fault. However, workers' compensation benefits are limited and do not compensate you for all of your losses. Under the Jones Act, you may be entitled to additional compensation if the accident was the fault of your employer.
Am I Covered by the Jones Act?
The Jones Act covers people who are injured while working as a member of a crew on a vessel. The law is complicated, and you will need an attorney who is conversant in how legal terms are defined:
- Are you a seaman? If you work as a member of a crew on a vessel, you are considered a seaman, regardless of your job title.
- Were you injured on a vessel? In addition to crew boats and supply boats, certain types of rigs such as semi-submersible rigs and jack-up rigs are classified as "vessels" under the Jones Act. Rigs with a fixed platform permanently embedded into the sea floor aren't considered vessels.
- Was your employer at fault? To collect damages under the Jones Act, you must prove that your employer was at fault for your injury. However, the standard of fault is not difficult to meet.
Learn more about the Jones Act claims.
For More Information About Oil Rig Accidents
We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and answer your questions. To talk to a Gretna, Destrehan or New Orleans oil rig accident attorneys at our firm, call 504-264-9524 or fill out the contact form on this website.
