Burn Injuries in the Maritime Industry

Burn injuries can be detrimental to victims, causing lifelong medical complications, thousands of dollars in medical bills and surgical costs, and serious pain and suffering. The emotional distress from burn injuries can also haunt victims for the rest of their lives. While the maritime industry isn’t necessarily notorious for leading the way in burn injury accidents, the threat of fires and explosions that can cause these injuries is ever present in this industry.

Maritime workers are involved in one of the dangerous professions in the world. According to a 2013 study performed by the CDC, offshore workers employed in the oil and gas industry are seven times more likely to suffer a fatality on the job than in any other industry—that is a serious increase in risk for maritime workers.

Dangers of Oil & Gas Operations

In many cases, accidents that occur in the offshore oil and gas industry are avoidable. When fires and explosions could have been prevented, someone can often be held accountable for their negligence that led to the incident.

Some of the most common causes of fires in the maritime industry include:

• Engine room explosions / fires
• Equipment failure or malfunction
• Hazardous chemicals
• Welding accidents
• Gas line ruptures
• Fuel explosions
• Improper fire prevention systems
• Electrocution
• Steam pipe bursts
• Pipeline accidents

There are a number of other issues that could result in burn injuries for maritime workers. Since these injuries often require an extensive healing process, injury victims often need extensive medical care and treatment—that also means heavy medical costs and expenses. When fighting for compensation, it is important that an injured worker make sure they seek maximum financial recovery for past, current, and future medical expenses they may face due to their severe burns.

Hurt in a Maritime Fire or Explosion?

Whether you are accident was caused while working on an oil rig or while working on a maritime vessel in the middle of the ocean, Arnold & Itkin is here to stand up for your rights and fight for the fair compensation and justice you deserve. If your burn injuries have had a long-term impact on your life, you need our counsel and representation on your side.

You can reach out to our firm at (888) 346-5024 to discuss your case.