Oil rig fires can happen without warning, have the potential to kill or maim dozens of workers, and can damage millions of dollars of equipment. In the aftermath of an oil rig on fire in the Gulf of Mexico, fingers are quickly pointed. The question of liability becomes a major concern.
Liability in an oil rig fire is critical. It determines who pays damages to injured workers and material owners. In some oil rig fire cases, liability may be assigned to multiple parties, further complicating the question of damages.
A Houston offshore accident attorney can help determine the facts of the case and provide legal options for demanding compensation for your medical care, property damage, and other losses.
Who may be held liable in an oil rig fire?
The following parties are usually held responsible for accidents involving an offshore oil rig on fire:
- Your employer or supervisor
- A negligent co-worker
- An equipment or tools manufacturing company
- A maintenance company tasked with keeping the rig and equipment in safe working condition
These parties may share liability, meaning that your lawyer may name multiple defendants in your case.
How does an offshore oil rig fire start?
Even though oil rigs are surrounded by water, there’s still plenty of fire potential. Rig owners and operators are responsible for ensuring that proper safety precautions, regulations, and procedures are in place and that everyone on the rig carefully follows them.
Determining the cause of the fire often leads to determining the liable party or parties. Some of the most common reasons fires start include:
- Open flame
- Sparks or heat generated by welding or cutting equipment
- Spills or leaks
- Electrical fires from loose wires, live or exposed wires
- Electrical fires starting from malfunctioning equipment
- Lightning strikes
Regardless of the circumstances, the oil rig firm is often liable for fires. They might even be liable for the effects of lightning strikes if it’s found they didn’t take proper preventive measures to reduce the risk.
Ultimately, rig operators and owners are expected to understand the potential for danger and take steps to mitigate it.
Negligent employees are a danger to everyone on the rig. Even with the best protective gear and strict safety policies, employees cutting corners or disregarding safety in favor of speed or ease can create a dangerous situation where a fire is more likely to occur.
Proving liability for an oil rig fire
Proving liability for an oil rig fire in the Gulf of Mexico may be difficult. Often, flames consume crucial evidence, and rig operators may quickly distance themselves from blame. Speaking to a lawyer immediately can help improve your chances of a successful claim.
Lawyers experienced in oil rig accidents know where to look for evidence of negligence or deliberate lack of safety controls. They can interview witnesses and subpoena safety records and other documents to establish your credibility.
Have you been hurt in an offshore oil rig fire? We’re ready to help.
If you’ve been hurt in an oil rig fire in the Gulf of Mexico, contact Havens & Associates today for a free consultation. We can determine which laws apply and get the compensation you need to obtain quality medical care and support yourself and your family as you heal.
Call (713) 955-2215 today.
