For many maritime workers, making the transfer from a dock to a vessel or from a vessel at sea to an oil rig or other vessel is the most dangerous part of their job. Rough weather, improperly maintained equipment and human error can transform the simple act of reporting to a job site into a potentially deadly situation. When something goes wrong – slips, trips, falls, etc. – serious injuries and even death can result.
The Riskiest Part of the Job
When you’re working offshore, getting to and from your job site can involve anything from boarding a vessel in port or travelling by boat to an oil drilling platform located far out on the Continental Shelf. There are many ways the transfer is made, including:
- Basket transfers using a crane
- Walkway/gang plank transfers
- Ladder transfers
- Rope transfers
- Helicopter/Sea plane
While making the transfer, a worker faces the potential for injury from:
- Slips, trips or falls
- Strong winds and rains
- Equipment malfunctions
- Poor visibility
- Crane accidents
- Collision with an object on the vessel or dock
- Defective ropes, cords or handrail
- Rough seas
- Falling objects
- Ladders or railing improperly secured
- Slippery decks and other surfaces
- Defective safety equipment
The possibility for mishap exists every step of the way. It’s crucial that all safety procedures be followed, especially when personnel transfers are made in rough seas. Negligence on the part of management, crane operators, boat crews, dock owners and vessel manufacturers can result in serious injuries.
Protect Your Rights after a Vessel Transfer Accident
Under the Jones Act and other maritime laws, it is the responsibility of maritime employers to provide safe transport to and from the work site. When they fail to do so, accidents and injuries can occur.
If have been injured as a result of a dock or offshore transfer accident that was the result of someone else’s negligence, you may have a right to seek compensation for maintenance (living expenses) and cure (medical expenses), as well as damages for your pain, suffering and other losses.
Ricardo Gonzalez & Associates is dedicated to recovering the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. Our Houston offshore accident attorneys possess a thorough understanding of maritime law. We have the knowledge and expertise to uncover the evidence needed to build an effective case and aggressively negotiate on your behalf.
How We Can Help after Your Maritime Accident
There are time limits for filing a claim for a maritime injury, and the sooner you speak with an experienced Houston maritime accident attorney, the better. Contact the law offices of Ricardo Gonzalez & Associates today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation with one of our attorneys.
Our offices are located in Houston, but we serve offshore workers all over the Gulf Coast region, including those injured on inland waterways.
