Offshore Platform vs. Offshore Rig

Posted by: rzehl
July 31, 2008
Topic: What to Do in Case of an Offshore Accident

Offshore injuries are an ever-present threat for all maritime workers. To make things more complicated, the location of an accident can often determine one's rights and available remedies under law. Offshore oil rigs are usually movable. As such, a maritime worker injured on a movable offshore oil rig may be entitled to recover as a seaman under the Jones Act. On the other hand, a maritime worker injured on an offshore oil platform would only be entitled to benefits as a longshoreman under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) because platforms are generally affixed to the bottom of the sea floor in a permanent fashion. There could even be a claim against a third party under General Maritime Law if that party contributed to the injury.

Offshore injury cases can pose a myriad of problems to those unaccustomed to dealing with them. It is absolutely essential that you hire the best to handle your maritime case. Contact the experienced Texas maritime injury attorneys at the Fitts Zehl Law Firm by phone at (800) 993-4887 or by email at info@gulfcoastmaritimelawyer.com.

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