Best’s Insurance Law Podcast

Rig Collapse Anatomy and Resulting Legal Issues

In this episode of the Best Insurance Law Podcast, Dr. Janine McCartney explains the anatomy of onshore rig collapses, detailing the types of drilling and completion rigs, common causes of instability such as outrigger failure and poor ground conditions, and the cascade of legal liabilities. She outlines the roles and potential culpability of each party involved—from rig owners and manufacturers to distributors, well operators, company men, tool pushers, drillers, and safety coordinators. The discussion emphasizes how understanding these technical and procedural factors is crucial for claims examiners assessing liability and insurance coverage. Dr. McCartney draws on her 47 years of safety engineering and expert‑witness experience to illustrate how documentation and proper training can mitigate risk.