Transocean Rig Workers & Their Families Should Be Commended For Taking Their Time

Over 70 lawsuits have been filed in connection with the Gulf of Mexico rig explosion that occurred on April 20, 2010, according to Law.com.  Supposedly, there are even more lawsuits in the works.  This high number of lawsuits has been described as a “gusher of litigation” and a “gold rush.” 

People seem to be in a panic and are feeling pressured to pursue claims right away, which is unfortunate because really, there is plenty of time.  Under the federal maritime law, the timeframe to file a lawsuit is 3 years.  While there are exceptions, this deadline shouldn’t be lower than one year.

Right now, everyone seems to be blaming everyone else. For the injured workers and their family members, there is still a lot of confusion.  Many are being solicited by personal injury lawyers who are trying to get them to take immediate action.  If that weren’t bad enough, the companies and their attorneys are allegedly requesting that waivers be signed by the workers who were aboard the Deepwater Horizon at the time of the explosion.  

What many of these lawyers seem to forget, as well as the companies involved, is that this was an emotional event that claimed the lives of numerous workers.  The survivors of the rig explosion should be able to deal with what has happened and receive the support of their family members in peace.

The rig workers and their families who have taken their time and have not fallen for the tricks and pressure tactics of the companies, their insurance representatives and lawyers, should be commended.  I am sure it has not been easy.