I Have Been Hurt Offshore, What Do I Do?

Over $1 Billion Recovered for Maritime Accident Victims. We are proud to have a reputation for aggressively fighting for the rights of injured workers.

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Maritime Accident Information

As Louisiana maritime injury attorneys, we often get questions from clients who have been injured while working on offshore oil rigs and platforms. One of the most commonly asked questions is, “I have been hurt offshore, what do I do?”

Lambert Zainey has handled claims for many offshore workers. At the moment of an injury, you’ll often be scared, hurting and confused about what to do first. While we wish no worker ever suffered an injury, it happens all too often. Knowing the right steps to take will help you if the occasion should ever arise.

General Maritime Laws

During times like these, it is of the utmost importance to know your rights as a maritime worker. In our country, seamen are wards of the court, which means they enjoy special protections because of their exposure to the perils of the sea and dangers of performing their duties so far from their homes for extended periods of time and having to rely on their employers to provide a safe place to work.

Our maritime laws protect offshore workers and other maritime workers after accidents and injuries. However, maritime law can be heavily detailed and challenging to navigate. If you are the victim of maritime accident or injury, whether offshore injury, inland push boat or a midstream transfer operation on the river, contact Lambert Zainey today. We can provide you with the help of our experienced New Orleans maritime law lawyers.

Maritime Law Frequently Asked Questions

Tips From Louisiana Offshore Accident Lawyers

Here are some tips from our experienced offshore accident lawyers in Louisiana on what to do after an injury:

Do I Have to See a Company Doctor After a Maritime Injury
STEP 1: GET MEDICAL ATTENTION

When you’ve been hurt offshore, this may be the most obvious first step, but sometimes it’s not always the first thing an accident victim thinks of. Seek medical attention promptly, and worry about everything else after your immediate health and well-being are provided for.

Emotional Distress and the Zone of Danger in Maritime Injury Litigation
STEP 2: REPORT YOUR INJURY

The next step you should take is reporting the injury to your superior. While this may be handled by coworkers as you are getting medical attention, it’s important to follow through with a written report as soon as possible. You should keep a copy of the report for your records, and for your attorney.

Louisiana News Source WWL Investigates: Legacy Lawsuits
STEP 3: DON’T SIGN ANYTHING

Beyond reporting the incident to your employer, it’s important that you take care in not discussing the accident with anyone. Comments made to your boss and to your coworkers can be used against you later if a lawsuit becomes necessary. Do not sign any papers, do not admit fault, do not sign any checks, and do not accept any settlements without first consulting a Louisiana maritime attorney.

Vessel Transfer Accidents Lawyer
STEP 4: GATHER INFORMATION

Many employers will do their best to avoid paying compensation for workers who are hurt offshore, so having documentation to back up your claim is important. Collect the names, phone numbers and other contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident. If possible, get pictures of the area where the accident took place, including pictures of any equipment that was involved in the injury.

Business Economic Loss Claims
STEP 5: GET REPRESENTATION

Not all personal injury attorneys are experienced in the specific laws that govern maritime and offshore workers’ rights. After your accident, it’s important that you choose a legal representative who is knowledgeable about offshore injury law to give you the best chance of getting maximum compensation.

If you are worried about the costs of hiring a lawyer, don’t be! Not only are initial consultations free, but at Lambert Zainey, we work on a contingency basis. This means that we don’t get paid until you do.

Companies We’ve Fought Against

Lambert Zainey has obtained recoveries from a long list of maritime companies, including some of the biggest names in the industry.

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case results

Over $1 Billion Recovered for Maritime Accident Victims

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Murphy Oil Spill
$330 MILLION SETTLEMENT

Oil storage tank rupture at the Murphy Oil USA refinery in Chalmette, LA. The fastest class certification and resolution of a case of its type and magnitude to date.

ARCO Explosion
SETTLED IN ONLY 12 MONTHS

Arco cryogenic platform explosion caused by improper cold cut of Southern Natural Gas pipeline. Settlement for the injured and deceased in approximately twelve months.

Get Help From an Offshore Injury Lawyer

Employers are legally obligated to provide safe work environments, the right safety equipment, and proper training to offshore workers. When they have failed in these areas, the New Orleans offshore claims attorneys at Lambert Zainey will aggressively pursue your right to fair compensation.

We have successfully handled maritime and offshore cases throughout Louisiana and the Gulf Coast region for more than 35 years. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.

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Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to settlement or trial.

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