Offshore Drilling Company Attempts to Avoid Liability in Workers Deaths

March 15, 2012

The dangers of offshore drilling are well known. And, because of their isolated locations, work accidents can be devastating. One such accident occurred in September 2011 in the Gulf of Mexico and resulted in the death four workers.

The media is bringing renewed attention to the accident not because of the death toll, but because of the company's recent activity in the courtroom. The company that owned the operation filed a petition in federal court to limit liability in the fatal drilling rig accident.

Details of Accident

The accident involved a liftboat, which is a smaller rig used in offshore drilling. Once viewed as an unsophisticated vessel, these ships have transformed into a fleet of large multifunctional pieces that are quickly becoming a part of the international market.

The dramatic growth in demand for these vessels has resulted in a steep learning curve for liftboat operators proficient in small scale operations. Owners of these rigs have responded by modifying designs to produce larger boats capable of drilling further offshore.

One key distinction between a liftboat and other offshore drilling operations is the ability to move away from bad weather. These boats are not made to withstand a hurricane, but to run from it.

Unfortunately, Trinity II chose to withstand Tropical Storm Nate. It is alleged that one of Trinity II's legs collapsed during the storm and that high winds blew away available life vessels. One small boat remained for the 10 man crew. After spending three days in the water, two men died. A third died shortly after rescue and the body of a fourth was found a week after the accident.

Implications for Survivors of Similar Accidents

Generally, the company that owns the rig is liable for injuries that occur during the course of employment. This includes compensation to victims for medical and rehabilitative costs. In this case, the company that owns Trinity II filed a petition asking "for exoneration from or limitation of liability for all claims for damage, injury, loss, death or destruction" connected to the accident. If granted, the company may not be required to compensate victims.

Those injured due to the negligence of their employers are entitled to compensation. If you or a loved one is injured in an oil rig accident, it is important to contact an experienced Louisiana drilling rig accidents attorney to ensure all legal rights and remedies are protected.

Article provided by Bohrer Law Firm, LLC
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