Injured Offshore - Follow These Important Steps

Offshore Jobs provide some of the best compensation in the world,however, it does have its draw backs. Offshore work is extremely dangerous. If you have been injured offshore you must seek help immediately. Getting injured offshore is unlike any other kinds of injuries because of the maritime laws.  Here are the basics if you have been injured offshore.

 

Follow These Five Steps

1. Report Your Accident Immediately

Failure to do this in a timely manner may make it look like you are not really injured, or may end up getting the injury blamed on something else that is not work related. Please report the incident immediately.

2. Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Counsel

If you are hurt, the company may try to get a a written statement from you. The company is out to protect their interests, you should also, do not sign anything without first consulting with an attorney.

It is, however, okay to give a brief description on the company accident report.

3. Seek Medical Attention Promptly

This ties into step one. If you don't receive prompt medical attention, the validity of your claim could be questioned. Always keep a detailed journal of the accidents events, your daily pain, and your doctors visits.

4. Do Not Hide Past Injuries From Your Attorney

Attorney's for Offshore companies are very good at protecting their clients business interests. If you lie about any past injuries they will find out and use it against you. This will severely hamper your credibility and your case. Be honest, most of the time previous injuries are not that big of a deal.

5. Hire an Experienced Maritime Lawyer

The most important step of all is to hire an attorney who has experience dealing with cases like yours, specifically one with maritime or offshore injury experience. One last bit of advice, be patient, don't settle right away just because a check is flashed in front of your face, you may never be able to work again, so make sure you protect your future.