Fires & Explosions in the Gulf of Mexico are Nothing New to the Maritime Industry

The fire onboard the Mariner Energy platform made national headlines. Americans braced for the worst, as they felt like they were reliving the devastation caused by the Deepwater Horizon explosion. The truth of the matter is that explosions and fires erupt frequently in the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, The Wall Street Journal reports that over 100 fires and explosions have riddled the Gulf each year since at least 2006.

The Wall Street Journal article, “Dozens of Fires Occur in Gulf of Mexico Each Year, Data Show,” paints a frightening picture of what truly goes on in that region. Last year alone, there were 133 fires and explosions that plagued structures scattered throughout the Gulf, according to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement. 2008 wasn’t any better, as there were 139 fires and explosions reported.

Since Mariner Energy has been at the forefront of the Gulf of Mexico platform accidents, many people have wondered how many incidences this company has been involved in. Among the reported fires and explosions in 2009, Mariner Energy was only involved in two. However, the company has been linked to many other offshore accidents. You can read our blog post, "Mariner Energy is No Stranger to Oil Rig Accidents", for more information.

Many of the oil rig and platform fires in the Gulf of Mexico are caused by human error, but equipment failure is often cited as a factor too.

If you have been injured in an offshore rig accident, you may be able to recover compensation. The maritime attorneys at the Law Offices of Vujasinovic & Beckcom P.L.L.C. represent injured offshore workers throughout the world and understand the questions and concerns that often arise. For a free, confidential consultation, call our law firm today at 877.724.7800.

Be sure to order your FREE copy of maritime lawyer Brian Beckcom’s book, Insider's Guide to Winning Your Maritime Injury Case.