Maritime Accident Aboard Oil Rig Kills Louisiana Worker
A Louisiana maritime worker was killed while engaged in loading activities aboard an oil rig in Dequincy, Louisiana last week. The 50-year-old worker Brian Dominque was loading oil field gear on the rig when the load came loose and fell on him. Dominque suffered serious injuries and died on the way to the hospital. Officials are conducting an investigation into the accident.
Loading and unloading activities tend to be some of the riskiest maritime tasks. Every year, several maritime workers are injured or killed when they are struck by falling objects as they load, unload, and transport cargo, however, this does not have to be so. 
Maritime safety procedures, if followed properly, can minimize the risk of accidents. Loads must be properly secured to prevent the risk of loads falling off of cranes and injuring workers. Maritime workers must also be trained about the risks they face while performing these activities. The importance of worker training and employee coordination cannot be underestimated. It is imperative that workers are trained to warn each other about the status of operations and any possible risk to those in the vicinity. Cranes must be fitted with alarm systems to warn workers that loads are being carried.
The kinds of injuries that can result when safety procedures are not followed can be serious. When heavy objects fall on a worker, they can leave him with blunt force trauma, crushing injuries, broken bones, and/or severed limbs. Head and brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries are also common. Depending on the kind of loads involved in the accident, workers may even be killed. Those who survive may find themselves physically incapacitated and in need of long term care.
Maritime Workers Have Rights
Maritime workers who suffer injuries on the job may be eligible for compensation under the Jones Act. The Act also provides compensation for the families of the victim, in the case of death of a worker. If safety procedures were followed correctly, the Jones Act would be much less prevalent in maritime work. Unfortunately, it is a term almost synonymous with seamen and their jobs.
If you have been injured in a maritime accident, a maritime lawyer can explain your rights to you, ensuring that you recover the full compensation you deserve. Contact an experienced maritime attorney at Arnold & Itkin LLP to discuss your case.
