Oil Field Accidents: What You Need to Know

The Dangers of Working on an Oil Field in Texas

As personal injury lawyers serving the hardworking people of West Texas for over two decades, we at Low Law Firm have seen firsthand the devastation that an oil field accident can wreak on workers and their families. The oil & gas industry powers our state’s economy. But it also puts the health and safety of its workers at risk every single day.If you or a loved one has been injured in an oil field accident. We want you to know that you are not alone. 

Our experienced personal injury lawyers at Low Law Firm are here to fight for your rights. And help you get the compensation you deserve during this painful time. We’ve been there for countless Texas families. & we’re ready to be there for you too. Call us today at 325.455.1889 for your free consultation. 

Common Causes of Oil Field Accidents

Working on an oil rig or in the oilfield is a dangerous job. ..workers are exposed to heavy machinery, toxic chemicals, grueling conditions, and long hours day in and day out. It’s an environment where even a small mistake or equipment malfunction can lead to catastrophic injuries in an instant. Some of the most common causes of oil field accidents that we’ve seen in our work as personal injury lawyers include:

Equipment Failures and Malfunctions

Oil field work involves heavy equipment and compex machinery. When this equipment is poorly maintained, defective, or misused, it can fail catastrophically and cause devastating oil field injuries to nearby workers. We’ve represented workers who have lost limbs, suffered traumatic brain injuries, or been crushed under collapsing rigs and equipment.

Explosions and Fires

Flammable gases, high pressure, and combustible chemicals make oil fields a constant fire and explosion risk. When safety protocols aren’t followed or equipment malfunctions, a single spark can set off a massive blast. Burns, smoke inhalation, and projectile injuries are just some of the consequences that can result.

Falls from Heights

Many oil field jobs require workers to perform tasks high up on tall rigs and platforms. Without proper safety gear and fall prevention measures, a worker can plummet dozens or even hundreds of feet to the hard ground below. The injuries are often life-altering or fatal.

A Hypothetical Example of How Low Law Firm Can Help

Imagine for a moment that you’re an oil field worker going about your day as usual. You’re an experienced hand who has worked on rigs for years, but today something goes terribly wrong. Maybe a worn brake line finally snaps and sends a massive pipe swinging into you, shattering your pelvis. Or a pocket of gas ignites and leaves you with severe burns on much of your body.In an instant, you go from being the primary breadwinner –for your family to being in a hospital bed facing a long, painful recovery and an uncertain future. You’re worried about how you will support your loved ones and pay your medical bills. That’s where Low Law Firm comes in. As your personal injury lawyers, we would immediately get to work investigating the accident to determine who was at fault. We would gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build the strongest case possible.

Throughout the process, we would be there to provide the support & guidance you need. We know how overwhelming. And stressful this time can be. You might feel angry, scared, and even hopeless. But we would be your advocates every step of the way, making sure you get the medical care you need and the maximum compensation possible.Imagine the relief of knowing that you have a team of experienced professionals in your corner as you begin to put your life back together. With Low Law Firm, you can focus on healing while we focus on fighting for justice on your behalf.

Getting Compensation After an Oil Field Accident

Oil field accidents in Texas can result in astronomical medical bills – lost wages from missing work, and a permanent impact on your ability to earn a living. Many injured workers aren’t sure what kind of compensation they are entitled to. or how to get it. That’s why you need the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer.

Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills, including future medical needs

• Lost income and reduced earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Mental anguish

• Loss of enjoyment of life

• Scarring and disfigurement

• Wrongful death of a family member

It’s important to understand that you may be entitled to compensation even if your employer carries workers’ comp insurance. In Texas, oil field operators are not required to carry workers’ comp. And even if your employer does have coverage, a personal injury lawsuit may provide the full & fair compensation you’re owed.

How to Protect Your Rights After an Oil Field Injury

The steps you take after an oil rig accident in Texas can make a huge difference in your ability to get the care and compensation you need. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

1. Report the accident to your employer right away and insist that an official accident report be made.

2. Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some serious injuries may not be immediately apparent.

3. Follow all of your doctor’s treatment recommendations. Don’t try to tough it out and risk making your injuries worse.

4. Document everything related to the accident and your injuries. Keep copies of accident reports, medical records, bills, and communications with your employer and the insurance company.

5. Be very careful what you say to insurance adjusters. Remember that their goal is to minimize payouts. Politely decline to give a recorded statement and direct all communications through your lawyer.

6. Talk to a personal injury lawyer with experience handling oil field accident cases as soon as possible to understand your rights and options.

Above all, try to stay hopeful. As experienced personal injury lawyer, we understand what a difficult time this is. But over the years, we’ve helped countless Texas oil field workers get the medical care and financial compensation they needed to rebuild their lives. Let us put that experience to work for you.

FAQs About Oil Field Accidents and Personal Injury Claims

1. Do I need a lawyer to file an injury claim after an oil field accident?

While you aren’t legally required to have a lawyer. we strongly recommend that you work with an experienced personal injury lawyer. Oil field accident cases can be complex, and employers and insurance companies will have teams of lawyers on their side.

2. How much does it cost to hire Low Law Firm?

We represent oil field accident victims on contingency, which means you pay no upfront costs. If we help you recover compensation, we receive a percentage of the recovery as our fee. If we don’t secure compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

3. Can I get fired for filing an injury claim against my employer?

No. It’s illegal for an employer to retaliate against you for filing a workers’ compensation or personal injury claim. If your employer does fire you or retaliate in some other way, you may have an additional legal claim against them.

4. How long do I have to file an injury claim in Texas?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the oil field accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. But it’s important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible while evidence is still fresh.

5. What if I can’t afford to wait for a settlement or court award?

We understand that your bills can’t wait. especially when your injuries have left you unable to work. We do our best to build cases as efficiently as possible. to secure the maximum compensation so you can move forward with your life.If you or a loved one has been injured in an oil field accident, “its so overwhelming and stressful”, you may say. But remember, you don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone. 

Choosing a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Call Low Law Firm today at 325.455.1889 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers. We’re here to fight for you, ever step of the way.