Oil Rig Worker Files Maritime Lawsuit against Drilling Company for Fall Injuries
A maritime worker who sustained serious injuries as a result of a fall into a 4-foot opening on an oil rig filed a maritime lawsuit against Diamond Offshore Drilling in Jefferson County District court. The worker, Jesus Perez, was working on a submersible oil rig called Ocean Washington in March 2007 when the accident occurred.
The suit alleges that Diamond Offshore Drilling was responsible for the fall because of defective grading that resulted in the formation of the opening. At the time of the accident, the platform had been docked at a shipyard in Sabine and was undergoing repairs. Perez was involved in performing repair work when he fell into the opening. He was an employee of Prime Electrical Services which was hired by Diamond Offshore Drilling for the repair work. The fall left Perez with arm, shoulder, hand, and neck injuries. The accident resulted in extensive medical expenses as well as long term physical impairment. Perez also claimed:
- lost wages
- loss of future earning capacity
- mental anguish
- pain and suffering
He is seeking damages in addition to interest and other costs he sustains.
It appears that the drilling company was negligent in providing a safe working environment for Jesus Perez. The opening of the platform that Perez fell into, according to the lawsuit, was the result of misplaced grading; the drilling company was responsible for making sure that such potential hazards were absent from the platform.
In the accident, Perez was not technically a seaman, but he is still eligible to receive compensatory benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. This act covers all people working on a vessel and engaged in repairs, unloading, and loading of cargo and other maritime activities. Workers covered under this act may be eligible to receive a benefits package that includes medical expenses, disability payments, and the costs of rehabilitation after an injury.
Maritime Accidents
Injured workers may not always be aware of their rights under maritime law, which is why it is important to seek the counsel of a maritime attorney before accepting the benefits package offered by a company. A maritime attorney can advise you on the kind of benefits you are eligible for, ensuring that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
If you've been injured in a maritime accident, contact the maritime attorneys at Arnold & Itkin LLP to answer any questions you may have about compensation.
