Eight workers suffered burn injuries while plugging a natural gas well near the Louisiana coast on May 25, 2021. The well exploded around 3 p.m. on Tuesday, according to WBRZ 2.
Their employer, Wild Well Control, reported that the workers suffered injuries to their hands and faces. They began work earlier in the week to plug the well in the Belle Isle Field after a blowout.
What Caused the Explosion Near St. Mary Parish?
The explosion occurred when a spark ignited the natural gas well. KATC 3 reported as many as eight workers sustained injuries, and four of them have refused treatment.
The victims were rescued by boat and taken to Morgan City where they received medical care. Wild Well Control confirms that at least one was hospitalized at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center in Lafayette after being airlifted to that facility.
There are also crews at the explosion site that brought the fire under control and are now addressing environmental concerns.
Who May Be Responsible for Covering the Cost of the Workers’ Injuries?
In most situations, employees have access to workers’ compensation insurance coverage based on state and federal laws enacted to help them recover money for their damages.
Since the Belle Isle Field is on Little Wax Bayou, though, maritime injury laws would apply to those injured. Those laws include the Jones Act, the Death on the High Seas Act, and other statutes.
Liable parties could include:
- The workers’ employer, Wild Well Control
- The owner of the well, Texas Petroleum Investment Company
- Another third party
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ClientVictims May Be Able to Recover Damages After Well Explosions
The Jones Act and other maritime injury laws make boat or well owners, company owners, employers, and others responsible for what happens to workers on the open water or in aquatic areas that do not fall under state laws.
These laws require them to:
- Reduce exposure to hazards
- Provide the necessary tools and personal protective equipment
- Ensure they receive all required training
- Take other steps to lower the risk of illness or injury when possible
When a worker is hurt because the responsible parties fail to uphold their responsibilities, the worker may be able to seek and recover:
- Treatment and care costs
- Lost wages
- Reduced income because of long-term injuries
- Pain and suffering and other intangible damages
There Is a Deadline by Which the Victims of the Texas Petroleum Investment Company Well Explosion Can File a Claim
Generally, injured workers have up to three years to pursue a case under the Jones Act per 46 U.S. Code §30106. However, there are many things your attorney will need to take care of first. A Jones Act lawyer on our team may be able to help you identify the liable parties and pursue compensation for you, but they will need to talk to you as soon as possible.
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Rick Smith | ClientCall Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Today for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation
At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, we provide complimentary consultations and handle maritime injury cases based on contingency. Your family will not need to pay us a retainer to enlist our help with your claim for compensation.
Call now to get started.
