Cost-cutting by offshore drilling companies can reduce safety

On Behalf of | Feb 21, 2022 | Offshore accidents

You have probably heard about the deadly offshore rig accident involving BP’s Deepwater Horizon in 2010. The rig’s explosion spilled over four million barrels of crude oil in the Gulf of Mexico, leading to an environmental disaster of biblical proportions.

In the wake of the disaster, numerous studies were done to determine what went wrong. A 16-month federal probe concluded that cost-cutting measures by the company contributed to the accident.

What does cutting costs have to do with anything?

A company cuts costs to increase its profits. Cost-cutting may take several measures, including reducing the number of employees, wages, and other business expenses. All these may directly or indirectly contribute to an accident.

For instance, if the company decides to cut maintenance costs, it could lead to defective equipment. Equally, if a rig is understaffed, it means that workers sometimes have to stretch beyond their physical capabilities to get the job done. This can cause lapses or lack of concentration by the workers due to fatigue.

Given that most offshore accidents result from human error, the risk is ever-present in such cases.

Protecting your rights after an offshore accident

Given the possibility of severe injuries following a rig accident, you need to be well prepared to safeguard your legal rights. You deserve compensation for all the injuries suffered, but you need to handle your case carefully. Some mistakes can harm your chances of getting adequate compensation and leave you in a tight place as you deal with medical bills without a job.

Therefore, it is in your best interests that you make informed decisions right from the moment you suffer injuries. That way, you will be sure that your case will conclude favorably, and you will receive the settlement you deserve.