Houma Offshore Accident Attorney

Offshore accidents in Houma, Louisiana, pose significant risks to workers in industries such as oil and gas and maritime. When these accidents occur, having legal representation becomes not only important but often essential to safeguard one’s rights and secure fair compensation.

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we stand out as the go-to law firm with a wealth of experience in handling offshore accident cases in Houma. For more information about offshore accidents and how a Houma maritime injury attorney can help you, continue reading along.

Understanding Houma Offshore Accidents

The industries involved in offshore work in Houma are essential to the local economy but come with inherent dangers. Oil and gas exploration and maritime transportation are the primary sectors, with thousands of workers engaged in offshore activities. These industries play a crucial role in the national energy supply chain and the transportation of goods and materials.

Furthermore, offshore accidents encompass a wide range of incidents that occur on oil rigs, drilling platforms, ships, and other maritime facilities. In Houma, these accidents are more prevalent due to the city’s substantial involvement in industries like oil and gas exploration and maritime transportation.

Common offshore accidents that usually require the need to hire a Houma maritime accident lawyer include:

• Rig Explosions
• Equipment Failures
• Fires
• Chemical Spills
• Slips
• Falls

Legal Rights of Houma Offshore Workers

Offshore workers have specific legal rights and protections designed to ensure their safety and well-being in hazardous working conditions. These rights include:

• Maintenance and Cure: Offshore workers who become injured or fall ill while on the job are entitled to “maintenance and cure.” This means that the employer must provide necessary medical care and cover daily living expenses until the worker reaches maximum medical improvement.
• Jones Act Claims: The Jones Act grants seamen the right to sue their employers for negligence if their injuries were caused by the employer’s or a coworker’s negligence. This allows injured offshore workers to seek compensation beyond maintenance and cure.
• General Maritime Law: Maritime law provides a framework for legal remedies and compensation for injuries or accidents that occur at sea. It covers a broad spectrum of issues relevant to offshore accidents.

These laws are essential for protecting the rights of injured workers and ensuring they receive the necessary medical care and compensation they deserve.

The Role of a Houma Offshore Accident Attorney

A Houma maritime injury lawyer plays a pivotal role in helping victims navigate the complex legal terrain following an accident. Their responsibilities include:

• Gathering Evidence: A Houma offshore injury lawyer will help collect and preserve crucial evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong case.
• Assessing Liability: Determining liability is often challenging in offshore accidents. However, a Houma offshore injury attorney will use their skills to identify responsible parties, be it the employer, equipment manufacturers, or third parties.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Experienced attorneys negotiate with insurance companies to ensure their clients receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Local Knowledge and Experience: Attorneys with local knowledge, like those at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, understand the unique legal landscape in Houma, providing clients with a distinct advantage.

Compensation for Offshore Accident Victims

Offshore accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the circumstances of their case. These may include:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for medical bills related to the accident, including surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the accident and resulting injuries, including past and future earnings.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional pain, distress, and diminished quality of life caused by the accident.

An experienced offshore accident lawyer near Houma, La can help clients maximize their compensation by meticulously evaluating the case and pursuing all available avenues for recovery.

4 Steps to Take After an Offshore Accident Near Houma

Navigating the aftermath of an offshore accident can be overwhelming. Be sure to follow these essential steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by seeking medical help for injuries, even if they seem minor at first.
2. Report the Incident: Notify your employer or supervisor about the accident as soon as possible, ensuring that it is properly documented.
3. Document Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as photographs, witness statements, and accident reports.
4. Contact a Houma Maritime Accident Attorney: Reach out to an experienced offshore maritime lawyer to protect your rights and interests.

Why Hire Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we’ve earned our reputation as a trusted law firm in Houma for handling offshore accident cases. When you choose a Houma offshore accident attorney from our firm, you receive:

• Proven Track Record: Our firm has a proven track record of successfully representing victims, securing substantial settlements and verdicts.
• Compassionate Approach: Each Houma offshore accident attorney at our firm prioritizes their clients’ well-being, offering compassionate and client-focused support throughout the legal process.
• Local Presence: With a local office in Houma, our firm understands the unique challenges faced by the community, making us a reliable choice for legal representation.

Offshore Accident Attorney Near Houma FAQs

1. How long do I have to file a claim after an offshore accident? 

The time limit to file a claim after an offshore accident can vary depending on several factors, including the type of accident, the specific circumstances, and the applicable laws. In general, it’s crucial to report the accident and initiate the claims process as soon as possible. Delays can affect the validity of your claim. 

Be sure to consult with an offshore accident attorney near Houma, LA to determine the precise statute of limitations for your case.

2. Can I sue my employer if they were negligent in maintaining a safe work environment? 

In many cases, offshore employees cannot sue their employers directly for negligence due to the protections provided by the Jones Act and other maritime laws. However, if your employer’s negligence directly contributed to your injuries, you may have the right to seek compensation through a Jones Act claim or other legal avenues. Consulting with an experienced Houma offshore accident attorney will help you understand your options.

3. What should I do if my employer’s insurance company denies my claim? 

If your employer’s insurance company denies your claim for an offshore accident, it’s crucial to consult with a Houma offshore accident attorney. They can review the denial and help you determine the appropriate steps to appeal the decision or pursue alternative legal remedies. This might involve filing a lawsuit against the insurance company or exploring other avenues for compensation.

4. How much compensation can I expect for my offshore accident? 

The amount of compensation you can expect for your offshore accident depends on various factors, including 

• The Extent Of Your Injuries
• The Circumstances Of The Accident
• And Applicable Maritime Laws

Compensation may include 

• Medical Expenses
• Lost Wages
• Pain And Suffering
• And More

To get a more accurate estimate of the potential compensation in your case, it’s advisable to consult with a maritime accident lawyer in Houma who can evaluate your situation and provide a personalized assessment.

Statute of Limitation Changes in Louisiana

In 2024, Louisiana law extended the statute of limitations for personal injury claims occurring on or after July 1, 2024, from one year to two years. Any injuries that occurred before July 1, 2024, will still have a 1-year statute of limitation. Learn more about Louisiana’s New Statute of Limitations here.

• 1 year for injuries sustained before July 1, 2024.
• 2 years for injuries suffered after July 1, 2024.

The statute of limitations is a legal deadline that sets a time frame for filing a lawsuit. In Louisiana, this is known as the “prescriptive period,” which determines how long you have to take legal action against the responsible party after an injury occurs.

Contact a Houma Offshore Accident Attorney Today

Offshore accidents in Houma, Louisiana, demand immediate attention and legal action to protect the rights and interests of victims. At , we have 679+ years of combined legal experience, so we’re clearly committed to being trusted advocates to turn to for help. With over $3 Billion as well as 200+ Personal Injury Million+ verdicts and settlements, you can trust that we will hold the people responsible for your injuries accountable.

If you were involved in an offshore accident in Houma, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance from a Houma offshore accident attorney at our firm. As part of our , we promise you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case. For a free consultation, contact a Louisiana offshore maritime lawyer from our firm today. It’s time to Get Gordon and Get it Done!