Practice Areas
Offshore / Maritime Accidents
Our roots are firmly embedded in a community that built its economic lifeblood on offshore drilling and the energy sector. We understand the specialized expertise required for offshore or maritime accident cases. These types of injuries often include factors well beyond the scope of personal injury. In every case, the defendant is one with pockets as deep as the wells they drill. Insurance companies are even more determined to control damage costs and mitigate blame. It’s both a dollar and public relations issue for them. They’ll waste no time trying to blame the victim.
For these reasons, it’s critical you contact us as soon as possible. What we’ve learned in successfully litigating against the largest energy companies and their insurance firms over the years could fill a law library. That knowledge can make a big difference in both the final result of your settlement and the time it takes to achieve it. The sacrifices you and your family have endured in exchange for your hard work and loyalty to your employer will mean nothing to them during such a case. They will confront your family quickly with an offer that’s far less than you deserve. They’ll begin preparing their case within hours of your injury. Don’t waste time. Your rights must be protected every step of the way.
If you suspect you have a legal claim, contact us online by using this form or call us anytime at 1-800-960-5551. Whichever option you choose, the service is free. In the meantime, check out our list of offshore/maritime accident Do’s and Don’ts that have proven immeasurably beneficial in protecting our clients.
Do's & Don'ts
When it comes to hands-on experience dealing with injuries that happen at sea and offshore, the Glenn Armentor Law Corporation is second to none. These cases are especially complex, and those you’re up against will go lengths to avoid accepting blame or paying one dime more than necessary.
What To Do In Case Of An Offshore Or Maritime Accident:
Report the accident, including how and why it happened, who and what was involved, and your injuries.
- Call for help and insist on immediate medical care if the injury causes substantial pain or appears
serious. - Be careful not to shield others or equipment who caused or contributed to the accident.
- Do not minimize your injuries.
- List all your injuries and problems to the supervisor, so they can be placed in the accident report.
- Be sure to get a copy of the accident report.
Attempt to get names, phone numbers, and addresses of witnesses who were present or know about
the cause of the accident.
Get the necessary medical attention. Don’t assume the problems will pass in a few days or weeks.
See a doctor as soon as possible even if you have to pay for it yourself.
- Avoid seeing a “Company Doctor.” Try to choose your own doctor who is familiar with you and your
health. - If you have a head or spinal injury, see an orthopedic or neurological specialist.
- Determine as early as possible if you’ll be out of work and for how long.
- Determine the “long-term prognosis” as a result of surgery or disability.
Only discuss the case with necessary parties, such as your family or those providing medical treatment.
If injuries persist for more than a few days, consult an attorney-specialist in maritime or offshore accidents.
- Ask about his experience.
- Bring a detailed version of the accident, injuries, treatment, and disability with you for the first
meeting. Write down as many questions as you can think of about law and procedure in your injury
case. - Ask about fees and expenses of the case.
- Ask your family and friends if they know the attorney or his firm, and what they think of him.
- Don’t hesitate to interview several attorneys or to ask what they feel they can do to help you.
Obtain the following documents for yourself or your attorney:
- Copies of all medical reports and bills.
- Copies of your wage records and income tax returns.
- Copies of any accident reports or statements given by you.
Read all documents before you sign them. If you have any doubts, you should see an attorney.
Other documentation that can be very important and that you should try to obtain when possible
include:
- List of mileage to and from all health care visits (which can be reimbursed to you at a later time).
- Copies of any radiology reports on tests given to you, such as x-rays, CT Scans, Bone Scan, MRI, or
Myelogram. - Log books you’ve kept on your work offshore, showing time spent there and activities.
- Names and addresses of co-employees who were working with you at the scene of the accident,
whether for the same or a different company, who could be witnesses to this or other similar accidents.
What Not to Do In Case Of An Offshore Or Maritime Accident:
- Don't be talked into not reporting the accident, even to preserve "safety records" of some company.
- Don't sign releases or checks with release language printed on them.
- Don't settle your case until you are satisfied you have recovered or reached maximum medical improvement.
- Don't settle your case unless you have consulted an attorney. They may be able to answer your questions or fully explain your rights to you initially, even if your version of the accident and injuries may not be complete.
- Don't do anything just because your employer or someone else says you "have to."
- Don’t discuss the case with any management or other employees.
