Oil Rig Injury Lawyers in North Carolina
- Nevena from Alpha Content Team
- Feb 24
- 7 min read
Updated: May 29
Oil rig work is one of the most hazardous professions in the United States. Employees in this industry are exposed to high risks daily, including explosions, equipment malfunctions, toxic exposure, and extreme weather conditions. North Carolina, though not as prominent as states like Texas or Louisiana in the oil and gas sector, has a growing offshore drilling presence. If you or a loved one has been injured in an oil rig accident, seeking legal representation from an experienced oil rig injury lawyer in North Carolina is crucial for protecting your rights and securing fair compensation.
This article explores the dangers of oil rig work, the legal rights of injured workers, compensation options, and how to choose the best attorney for your case.
Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers
+1 704-714-1450
Open 24 hours
https://www.rflaw.net/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Counsel Carolina
+1 919-373-6422
Open 24 hours
https://www.counselcarolina.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Price Petho & Associates
+1 704-741-7123
Open 24 hours
https://priceattorneys.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Tatum & Atkinson - Personal Injury & Accident Attorneys
+1 800-529-0804
Open 24 hours
https://tatumatkinson.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Kreger Brodish LLP
+1 888-820-5885
Open 24 hours
https://www.kregerbrodish.com/
Durham, NC, United States
DeMayo Law Offices, LLP
+1 704-508-9266
Open 24 hours
https://www.demayolaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Whitley Law Firm Injury Lawyers
+1 919-355-4265
Open 24 hours
https://whitleylawfirm.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Law Offices of James Scott Farrin
+1 866-900-7078
Open 24 hours
https://www.farrin.com/
Serving Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Fayetteville, and across NC
Paul Robinson Law, PLLC - Raleigh
+1 984-384-6221
Open ⋅ Closes 12 a.m.
https://paulrobinsonlaw.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Ricci Law Firm Injury Lawyers
+1 800-387-6406
Open 24 hours
https://www.riccilawnc.com/
Serving Raleigh, Greenville, and Eastern NC
Understanding Oil Rig Accidents and Injuries
Common Causes of Oil Rig Accidents
Oil rigs are inherently dangerous workplaces due to the combination of heavy machinery, volatile substances, and extreme environments. Some of the most frequent causes of oil rig accidents include:
Explosions and fires: Due to the presence of highly flammable gases, even a small spark can cause a catastrophic explosion.
Falls from heights: Workers often operate on elevated platforms, leading to serious injuries if safety harnesses fail or are not properly used.
Machinery malfunctions: Defective or improperly maintained equipment can lead to crushing injuries, amputations, and fatalities.
Transportation accidents: Workers frequently travel by boat or helicopter to offshore rigs, where accidents are common due to weather conditions or mechanical failures.
Exposure to toxic substances: Prolonged exposure to hazardous chemicals or drilling fluids can cause respiratory diseases, skin conditions, and long-term health issues.
Falling objects: Tools, pipes, or machinery falling from a height can result in head injuries or broken bones.
Structural failures: The harsh marine environment and heavy-duty operations can weaken rig structures, leading to dangerous collapses.
Common Oil Rig Injuries
Given the risks involved, injuries sustained in oil rig accidents are often severe and life-altering. Some of the most common include:
Burns: From fires, explosions, or chemical exposure, burns can cause permanent disfigurement and require extensive medical treatment.
Fractures and broken bones: Falls, falling objects, or heavy machinery accidents often result in fractures.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): A blow to the head from a fall or falling object can cause cognitive impairment, loss of motor function, and long-term disabilities.
Spinal cord injuries: Severe falls or crushing injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
Amputations: Serious accidents involving heavy machinery can result in the loss of limbs.
Hearing loss: Repeated exposure to loud drilling equipment can cause permanent hearing damage.
Respiratory conditions: Inhalation of toxic fumes, dust, or chemicals can lead to chronic lung diseases.
Law Offices of William H Harding
+1 704-504-7854
Closed ⋅ Opens 9 a.m. Mon
https://www.williamhharding.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Wallace Pierce Law
+1 919-313-2737
Open 24 hours
https://wallacepierce.com/
Durham, NC, United States
Burton Law Firm, PLLC
+1 919-873-4700
Open 24 hours
https://www.burtonlawfirm.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Henson Fuerst, Attorneys at Law
+1 919-781-1107
Open 24 hours
https://www.hensonfuerst.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Ward Black Law
+1 336-439-9332
Open 24 hours
https://www.wardblacklaw.com/
Greensboro, NC, United States
The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A.
+1 919-833-3370
Closed ⋅ Opens 8:30 a.m. Mon
https://www.mccabelawoffices.com/
Cary, NC, United States
Mogy Law
+1 980-409-4749
Open 24 hours
https://www.mogylaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Kreger Brodish LLP
+1 919-324-1875
Open 24 hours
https://www.kregerbrodish.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
(Note: Already included in prior list with Durham office; included here with Raleigh contact for completeness.)
Rizzi Law Group
+1 336-354-1040
Closed ⋅ Opens 8 a.m. Mon
https://www.rizzilaw.com/
Winston-Salem, NC, United States
Speaks Law Firm
+1 704-766-8649
Open 24 hours
https://www.speakslaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Legal Rights of Injured Oil Rig Workers in North Carolina
Workers' Compensation for Oil Rig Employees
In North Carolina, most injured workers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which cover:
Medical expenses: Hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and therapy.
Lost wages: Compensation for time off work due to injury.
Disability benefits: Payments for temporary or permanent disabilities.
Death benefits: Financial assistance for the families of deceased workers.
However, accepting workers' compensation often prevents employees from suing their employer for additional damages, even if negligence played a role.
Third-Party Liability Claims
If a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer, subcontractor, or supplier, contributed to an oil rig accident, injured workers may be able to file a third-party liability lawsuit. These claims allow victims to recover additional damages, including:
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
The Jones Act and Maritime Law
For offshore oil rig workers, The Jones Act and maritime law provide additional legal avenues. The Jones Act allows injured seamen to sue their employers for negligence, while general maritime law provides maintenance and cure benefits, which cover medical expenses and daily living costs during recovery.
Asheville Car Accident Lawyer, Lakota R. Denton, P.A.
+1 828-463-1697
Open 24 hours
https://www.lakotardenton.com/
Asheville, NC, United States
Davis Law Group, P.A.
+1 828-303-2842
Closed ⋅ Opens 8:30 a.m. Mon
https://www.davislawgroupnc.com/
Asheville, NC, United States
Auger & Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers
+1 704-741-1886
Open 24 hours
https://www.augerlaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Kornbluth Ginsberg Law Group, P.A.
+1 919-948-1165
Open 24 hours
https://www.kglawnc.com/
Durham, NC, United States
Lanier Law Group, P.A.
+1 336-753-5875
Open 24 hours
https://www.lanierlawgroup.com/
Greensboro, NC, United States
A&S Personal Injury Lawyers
+1 855-370-2828
Open 24 hours
https://www.legal-nc.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Ricci Law Firm Injury Lawyers
+1 919-635-9957 (Durham)
+1 910-776-4520 (Fayetteville)
Open 24 hours
https://www.riccilawnc.com/
Serving multiple cities in NC
(Note: Already included previously; added Durham and Fayetteville contacts for reference.)
Hardison & Cochran
+1 919-444-4444
Open 24 hours
https://www.lawyernc.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Brent Adams & Associates
+1 919-781-7590
Closed ⋅ Opens 8 a.m. Tue
https://www.brentadams.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Morgan & Morgan
+1 980-423-6300
Open 24 hours
https://www.forthepeople.com/charlotte/
Charlotte, NC, United States
The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, P.C. Charlotte Injury Lawyers & Attorneys at Law
+1 704-676-1093
Open 24 hours
https://www.thelitigator.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
How an Oil Rig Injury Lawyer Can Help
Investigating the Accident
A skilled oil rig accident attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering:
Safety records and incident reports
Equipment maintenance logs
Eyewitness testimonies
Expert evaluations
This evidence is essential for building a strong case and proving liability.
Filing Claims and Lawsuits
An attorney will determine the most effective legal route, whether through:
Workers' compensation claims
Personal injury lawsuits
Third-party liability lawsuits
Maritime law claims
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A dedicated oil rig injury lawyer will negotiate aggressively to ensure fair compensation.
Maximizing Compensation
An attorney will fight for a comprehensive settlement, covering:
Medical bills (past, present, and future)
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Punitive damages (when applicable)
Tippens and Zurosky, L.L.P.
+1 704-343-0018
Closed ⋅ Opens 8:30 a.m. Mon
https://www.tandzlaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Thompson Personal Injury Law Firm
+1 336-559-6713
Closed ⋅ Opens 9 a.m. Tue
https://www.thompsoninjuryfirm.com/
Winston-Salem, NC, United States
The Bishop Law Firm
+1 919-615-3095
Closed ⋅ Opens 9 a.m. Tue
https://www.carolinadisabilitylawyer.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Yale Haymond Law
+1 704-800-4357
Open 24 hours
https://www.haymondinjurylaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Riddle & Brantley Injury Lawyers
+1 919-867-1193
Open 24 hours
https://justicecounts.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, P.C.
+1 704-676-1093
Open 24 hours
https://www.thelitigator.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
(Primary location already listed; Hickory office omitted as duplicate.)
Lanier Law Group, P.A.
+1 336-753-5875
Open 24 hours
https://www.lanierlawgroup.com/
Greensboro, NC, United States
(Already listed in previous entries; Raleigh location omitted as duplicate.)
CR Legal Team
+1 336-728-6219
Open 24 hours
https://www.crlegalteam.com/
Greensboro, NC, United States
Thorp Law
+1 919-373-3390
Closed ⋅ Opens 8:30 a.m. Mon
https://www.thorplaw.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
David & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC
+1 910-251-8088
Open 24 hours
https://www.davidandassociateslaw.com/
Wilmington, NC, United States
Choosing the Right Oil Rig Injury Lawyer in North Carolina
Experience in Oil Rig and Maritime Law
When selecting a lawyer, it’s critical to choose one with extensive experience in oil rig accidents and maritime law. General personal injury lawyers may lack the specialized knowledge needed for these complex cases.
Proven Track Record
A lawyer with a history of successful verdicts and settlements for oil rig workers is more likely to secure favorable outcomes.
Strong Negotiation and Litigation Skills
Employers and insurance companies often try to avoid full liability. A good lawyer should be skilled in negotiations but also prepared to take the case to court if necessary.
Client Reviews and Testimonials
Reading past client testimonials can help gauge an attorney’s reliability and success rate in handling similar cases.
George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers
+1 980-999-9904
Open 24 hours
https://www.sinklaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Law Offices of James Scott Farrin
+1 828-552-8215
Open 24 hours
https://www.farrin.com/
Asheville, NC, United States
Charlotte NC Car Accident Lawyers Group
+1 980-239-2275
Open 24 hours
https://charlottenccaraccidentlawyers.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Johnson & Groninger PLLC
+1 919-568-1323
Open 24 hours
https://www.jglawnc.com/
Durham, NC, United States
Auger & Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers
+1 704-741-1886
Open 24 hours
https://www.augerlaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
(Already listed; Raleigh location omitted as duplicate.)
Flexner Houser Injury Law
+1 910-794-3221
Open 24 hours
https://www.flexnerhouserlaw.com/
Wilmington, NC, United States
McCormick Law Firm
+1 980-580-2440
Open 24 hours
https://mccormicklawfirm.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Mark Farbman Law Offices
+1 704-542-1555
Closed ⋅ Opens 9 a.m. Mon
https://www.markfarbman.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Edwards Injury Law
+1 980-478-8152
Open 24 hours
https://www.edwardsinjurylaw.com/
Charlotte, NC, United States
Maginnis Howard Personal Injury Lawyer
+1 919-526-0450
Closed ⋅ Opens 9 a.m. Tue
https://www.carolinalaw.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Hardison & Cochran
+1 919-444-4444 (Raleigh HQ)
+1 336-777-7777 (Greensboro office)
Open 24 hours
https://www.lawyernc.com/
Raleigh, NC, United States
Final Thoughts
Oil rig injuries can have devastating consequences, affecting workers and their families physically, emotionally, and financially. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while working on an oil rig in North Carolina, seeking legal representation is essential.
A qualified oil rig injury lawyer can help navigate the complexities of maritime and personal injury laws, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—consult an experienced attorney today to explore your legal options and start building a strong case for justice.
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