Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) Attorneys
Protecting the Rights of Offshore Workers Along the Gulf Coast
At The Chopin Law Firm, we are dedicated to representing offshore workers who have been injured while working on the Outer Continental Shelf. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA) extends important legal protections to employees working in offshore oil and gas exploration, drilling, production, and support operations beyond state waters. If you or a loved one was injured while working off the coast of Louisiana, Texas, or Mississippi, you may be entitled to compensation under this federal law.
What Is the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act?
Originally passed in 1953, the OCSLA governs activities conducted on the submerged lands of the outer continental shelf—those beyond three nautical miles off the coastline. It allows injured offshore workers to pursue compensation under state law (most often Louisiana) as adopted by the federal government. This unique legal framework fills a critical gap in coverage for those who don’t qualify for Jones Act seaman status but are still exposed to the hazardous conditions of offshore work.
Who Is Covered Under the OCSLA?
OCSLA applies to:
- Oil and gas rig workers
- Offshore platform employees
- Subsea construction crews
- Pipeline installation and inspection workers
- Helicopter or transport personnel serving offshore sites
- Other employees working in support of offshore operations
To qualify, the injury must have occurred on the Outer Continental Shelf or must be connected to operations that explore or exploit natural resources in those federal waters.
Benefits Under OCSLA
Offshore workers covered under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act may be entitled to:
- Medical care and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Disability and disfigurement compensation
- Pain and suffering
- Death benefits for surviving family members
The OCSLA allows injured workers to bring claims under applicable state law (such as Louisiana tort law), giving them broader rights than under standard workers’ compensation.
Why You Need a Louisiana Maritime Injury Lawyer
Offshore injury claims under the OCSLA are complex. Determining jurisdiction, employer responsibilities, and liability requires a deep understanding of maritime, federal, and state law. At The Chopin Law Firm, our Louisiana maritime injury lawyers have the experience, resources, and trial-tested strategies to handle serious offshore injury cases and hold negligent operators and employers accountable.
We are proud to serve injured offshore workers across Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi. If you were hurt while working on the Outer Continental Shelf, we can help you understand your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Get the Help You Need Today
If you or a loved one has been injured offshore, don’t wait to take action. Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation with a maritime attorney at Chopin Law Firm. Let our experienced team fight for your rights under the OCSLA and help you secure the financial support you need to move forward.
