Texas-based Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. recently pleaded guilty violating the Clean Water Act. Charges were brought against the company following a 2016 incident in which a Louisiana oil pipeline was damaged by the company. As a result, the pipeline leaked over 5,000 gallons of oil in a Louisiana bay. Records indicate that one Great Lakes Dredge & Dock’s subcontractors struck the pipeline while operating an excavator vehicle. The incident occurred south of New Orleans, Louisiana. In order to resolve the charges, the company agreed to pay a $1 million fine.
Dredging operations can pose significant dangers both to workers on the vessel and to the general public. When dangerous work is involved, extra precautions must be taken, especially when catastrophic fires or explosions can occur. Not only can an incident like this result in a catastrophic impact on the environment, but it can also result in a loss of life. Safe dredge companies must ensure that their workers and contractors are aware of hazards and take steps to mitigate them.
Our experienced lawyers handle maritime personal injury and wrongful death litigation of all kinds and have the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured as a result of the negligence of another party. The lawyers of Spagnoletti Law Firm have handled lawsuits involving dredges throughout the country, and have previously been involved with litigation against Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company.
The experienced and aggressive vessel accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of this tragic accident. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to vessel accidents, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your rights.