What is an Oil Field Accident?

Oilfield workers are exposed to dangerous working conditions every day. Even with sufficient safety equipment and regulations, coping with these risky jobs’ demands can be taxing.

An accident on an oilfield can lead to horrendous injuries, severe burns, and in the worst cases, even result in loss of life. If you or a loved one experiences life-altering injuries due to an oilfield accident, pursuing legal action becomes your best opportunity to seek compensation for your suffering.

What Are the Common Causes of Oil Field Accidents?

Texas has witnessed robust growth in its oil and gas industry in recent years, resulting in many oil field accidents. This surge in activity, however, comes with its downsides. According to the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), the major factors contributing to oil and gas workplace injuries are:

• Chemical leaks
• Fracking injuries
• Spills
• Negligence
• Faulty equipment

Safety remains paramount for employers, even in challenging situations. Our Texas attorneys can help injured oil and gas workers seek extra specialized damages if deliberate or reckless safety violations contribute to oilfield injuries.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for an Oil Field Accident?

For you to be awarded compensation for the damages, your oil rig explosion attorney must show that another party’s negligence was the cause of your injuries.

Various parties could be held responsible for the damages, including;

Employer Responsibility

Employers must always adhere to safety regulations and conduct regular safety inspections. Defaulting any of these responsibilities can lead to injuries. While worker’s compensation covers employer-related negligence cases, in the instance of gross negligence, you may be allowed to file claims against your employer directly.

Manufacturer Liability

Machinery malfunctions can result in severe injuries like burns, fractures, and crush injuries. If faulty equipment is the cause, the manufacturer could be held accountable for creating defective machinery. Machinery problems can also be caused by inadequate maintenance, poor repairs, or a lack of safety checks, making people in charge of maintaining the equipment liable for injuries.

Third-Party Involvement

This happens mostly during the transportation of oil. If the activities of the careless drivers resulted in a car crash involving you-the driver of an oilfield vehicle, they may be held responsible for the damages.

What Should I Do if I Am Injured in an Oil Field Accident?

If you’re injured in an oil field, prioritize medical help and notify your supervisor promptly. For potential compensation benefits, inform your employer within 40 days. Consider involving an attorney as early in the process as possible. You may be entitled to significant settlements, and a Texas oil field injury attorney can ensure that all options are considered to maximize your recovery.

Can I File a Lawsuit for an Oil Field Accident?

You have the right to sue the party responsible for your oilfield crash, even if you collect workers’ compensation. However, attempting to recover fair compensation can be difficult if you lack prior knowledge regarding this topic. An experienced oil and gas lawyer will fully understand how to protect your interests through the entire process.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

First, keep your vehicle at the crash scene as required by law. You should exchange contact and insurance info with everyone involved, but remember, don’t admit fault. Call the police to report the collision. It is always a good idea to let medical professionals check you out, even if you think you are fine, as some injuries might not immediately appear.

Taking photos and checking for any available cameras can be useful for documenting the incident. Be cautious about your statements until you’ve obtained legal advice. It’s recommended to contact an experienced attorney specializing in car accidents before making any significant decisions.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident?

In Texas, you have two years from the crash date to file your claim as per the law. Time can fly, and those two years might pass faster than expected. To stay on track, consider scheduling an appointment with your lawyer sooner rather than later.

What Types of Compensation Can I Seek in a Car Accident Lawsuit?

From a legal standpoint, your ability to receive compensation will hinge upon the ability of your personal injury attorney to demonstrate the effect the car crash has had on you.

You may receive

• Medical Expenses
• Property Damage
• Lost Wages
• Pain and Suffering
• Emotional Distress
• Loss of Consortium
• Punitive Damages

So, when seeking compensation, it’s about getting back what you’ve lost, both in terms of money and the more intangible impacts on your life.

Do I Need a Lawyer for My Car Accident Case?

Oil and gas companies, with their massive resources and legal teams, often try to settle claims for less than they’re worth. To effectively counter these tactics and secure a fair settlement, you need an attorney experienced in taking on these corporations.

Lawyers like those at the Law Office of Josh B. Maness specialize in aiding those affected by serious workplace accidents, helping them heal and move forward with rightful compensation. Whether you’re in Waskom, Marshall, or anywhere in Harrison County, their legal expertise can make a difference in your case’s outcome. Schedule a free consultation today to tap into their experience and guidance.

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