Texas is home to a booming oil industry, with thousands of workers employed in oilfields across the state. While these jobs offer significant financial opportunities, they also come with inherent dangers. Oilfield accidents can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities due to hazardous working conditions, heavy machinery, and exposure to volatile substances.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an oilfield accident in Texas, understanding your legal rights and the steps you should take can make a crucial difference in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Oilfield Accidents
Oilfields are among the most dangerous workplaces in Texas. Some of the most common causes of oilfield accidents include:
- Equipment Failures: Malfunctioning or poorly maintained machinery can cause serious injuries.
- Explosions and Fires: The presence of flammable gases and chemicals increases the risk of catastrophic fires and explosions.
- Falls from Heights: Oil rig workers often work on elevated platforms, increasing the likelihood of serious fall-related injuries.
- Exposure to Toxic Chemicals: Workers may come into contact with hazardous chemicals that can cause respiratory issues and long-term health problems.
- Vehicle and Transportation Accidents: Moving heavy equipment and navigating large vehicles in oilfields can lead to collisions and serious injuries.
- Lack of Proper Safety Training: Inadequate training and failure to follow safety protocols can put workers at higher risk of injury.
Steps to Take After an Oilfield Accident
If you are injured in an oilfield accident, taking immediate action is critical to protecting your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if your injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as internal trauma or respiratory issues, may not be immediately apparent.
Report the Incident
Notify your employer or supervisor about the accident as soon as possible. This ensures that the incident is officially documented, which will be important for any future claims.
Document Everything
After the incident, you should take photos of the accident scene, hazardous conditions, and injuries; keep a detailed record of medical treatments, expenses, and any lost wages due to your injury; and gather contact information from witnesses who saw the accident happen.
Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Advice
Your employer or their insurance company may try to get you to sign documents that could limit your ability to seek full compensation. Speak with an attorney before agreeing to any settlements or statements.
Consult an Experienced Oilfield Accident Lawyer
An attorney specializing in oilfield accidents can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options. They can also handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Legal Options for Oilfield Accident Victims
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may have several legal options. If your employer carries workers’ compensation, you may be eligible for medical benefits and lost wages, although Texas does not require employers to have this coverage. If negligence played a role in your accident, you might have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible parties. Additionally, if a third-party contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another entity contributed to your injuries, you may have a claim against them. In cases where a loved one was fatally injured in an oilfield accident, surviving family members may be able to seek compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of oilfield accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation. This can include coverage for medical expenses such as hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and other related costs. If your injuries cause you to miss work, you may also be compensated for lost wages. Additionally, you may be eligible for damages related to pain and suffering, which cover physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. If the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability or disfigurement, compensation may be provided for the impact on your ability to work or perform daily activities. In cases of wrongful death, families who have lost a loved one due to an oilfield accident may be able to receive financial support.
How an Oilfield Accident Lawyer Can Help
Filing an oilfield accident claim can be complex, especially when dealing with large oil companies and their insurers. An experienced attorney can conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of your accident, gather crucial evidence, such as safety records, witness statements, and medical reports, handle negotiations with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement, and represent you in court if litigation is necessary.
At Edwards Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges oilfield workers face and are dedicated to fighting for the rights of those injured in workplace accidents. We have the experience and resources to take on large corporations and ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
Edwards Law Firm
Oilfield accidents in Texas can have devastating consequences for workers and their families. Knowing what to do after an accident and understanding your legal rights can make a significant difference in your recovery and ability to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an oilfield accident, don’t wait to seek legal help; talk to a Corpus Christi oilfield accident lawyer right away. Contact Edwards Law Firm today at 361-217-6679 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in your fight for justice.