Injuries from Unsecured Equipment on Oil and Gas Rigs

The oil and gas industry continues to boom in New Mexico, and many people go to work and expose themselves to various types of oil and gas rig accidents on a daily basis. Tragic injuries can happen in many ways, and one serious type of accident occurs when equipment on the rig is not properly secured. 

Unsecured rig equipment can cause widespread damage and injuries on oil and gas rigs, and workers or third parties are injured in the process have important legal rights. Contact a New Mexico injury attorney at David C. Chavez Law Firm call now 505-865-9696 for assistance as soon as possible following this type of accident. 

Faulty Equipment Securement

Oil and gas rigs involve many types of large, heavy, and complex equipment to do their jobs. Some types of equipment that must always be properly secured include:

Crew members should fully understand the requirements for proper securement of any equipment they handle, set up, or inspect. However, mistakes happen, and unsecured equipment can come loose and cause severe damage and injuries to those on the rig. 

Your Rights as an Injured Oil and Gas Worker or Third Party

While New Mexico workers’ compensation laws cover most employees in New Mexico, people working on oil and gas rigs have slightly different protections. This is because the Jones Act (also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920) protects workers on maritime vessels around the shores of the United States. This is a federal law with different provisions than state workers’ compensation laws. 

Everyone working onboard oil and gas rigs is protected by the Jones Act, including:

When equipment comes loose, it does not discriminate when it comes to who gets injured. Anyone in the vicinity can sustain serious injuries, and it is important to have an experienced attorney protecting your rights. 

Also, any non-employee injured as a result of an oil and gas rig explosion will have their own personal injury claim.

What to Do after an Oil and/or Gas Equipment Accident

First, seek the proper medical care on rigs can be limited, many supervisors try to downplay injuries to crew members. Don’t let this happen, as injuries can worsen quickly. If you need medical treatment, inform your supervisor, who should arrange for the proper transportation. 

Second, call The Law Firm of David C. Chavez immediately. We have expert resources and experience to provide immediate legal representation, guidance, and help to you or a loved one. We are a Top 10 Top 100 Super lawyers law firm and would be honored to represent you or a loved one who has been tragically injured.

Third, try to obtain photographs of the scene, surrounding area, and injuries.

Speak with David C. Chavez Law Firm an Experienced New Mexico Personal Injury Attorney for Help

David C. Chavez Law Firm, represents injured workers in many different types of cases. Call now The David C. Chavez Law Firm 505-865-9696 or contact us online for a free case evaluation and to learn more about how we could help you.