The oil and gas industry is booming and oilfield accidents are on the rise, too. We know that oilfield work is dangerous. If you have been injured in the oilfield, call us today.

Top Texas Oilfield Accident Attorneys 

The oil and gas industry is notorious for its hazardous working conditions, often leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. Oil field workers expose themselves to hazardous conditions and materials every day. Unfortunately, if someone acts negligently, accidents can occur, and victims can suffer severe and sometimes fatal injuries. The costs of recovering from an oil field accident can be astronomical, and many victims and their families can find themselves overwhelmed and financially debilitated.

When faced with the aftermath of an oilfield accident, victims and their families must navigate a complex legal landscape to secure rightful compensation. An experienced Texas oilfield injury lawyer from Hilliard Law can make all the difference, helping you comprehend your legal rights, traverse the intricate legal process, and acquire equitable remuneration. Call us today at 361-203-4394 for a free consultation, and let Hilliard Law help you take the necessary steps to secure the compensation and justice you deserve after an oilfield injury.

The Importance of Hiring a Texas Oilfield Injury Lawyer

Oilfield accidents can significantly impact victims and their families. Without legal assistance, individuals may struggle to understand their entitlements, leading to inadequate compensation, particularly when dealing with oil and gas companies. A lawyer from Hilliard Law can help victims, such as oil field workers, understand their legal rights, navigate the complex legal process, and secure fair compensation.

A Texas oilfield injury lawyer is well-versed in the specific hazards of oilfield work, relevant laws and regulations, and the potential consequences of inadequate well control, which can lead to fatal injuries. With our experience and industry knowledge, Hilliard Law can effectively handle the intricate legal process and ensure adequate remuneration for accident victims.

Knowledge of Industry-Specific Laws

The Texas oilfield industry must adhere to regulations from several agencies, including the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Texas Railroad Commission, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Oilfield injury lawyers play a crucial role in understanding industry-specific laws related to oilfield accidents, including those leading to serious and fatal injuries. These lawyers have a deep understanding of Texas labor laws and their application to each case.

Familiarity with industry-specific laws is advantageous for the construction of a strong oilfield injury case as it allows for:

• The comprehension of the regulations and standards that govern the oil and gas industry
• The identification of any violations of industry-specific laws
• The utilization of oilfield injury lawyers’ experience and knowledge
• The gathering of evidence by industry-specific laws
• The upholding of oilfield workers’ rights and protections, which can help cover medical bills and other expenses.

Navigating Complex Cases

Oilfield injury cases may be complex due to the high volumes of fuel involved in oilfield fires, which can be challenging to extinguish. Additionally, major oilfield accidents can be caused by a range of issues, including land and structure problems, defective drilling equipment, and human error. Consequently, it is necessary to understand the specific circumstances and identify the responsible parties to successfully navigate oilfield injury cases.

Experienced lawyers from Hilliard Law tackle complex oilfield injury cases by promptly filing claims, adeptly handling complex court proceedings, assisting clients through the legal system, conducting exhaustive investigations, and building winning personal injury lawsuits. To address the common legal issues that may arise in oilfield injury cases, such as multiple parties, intricate regulations, establishing liability, and insurance company strategies, it is advisable to seek the advice of a qualified oilfield accident attorney who can manage the legal process, collect evidence, negotiate, and strive for a just settlement.

Common Causes of Oilfield Accidents in Texas

Oilfield workers are exposed to a range of hazards, such as process fluids, electricity, mechanical systems, and radiation, which can lead to disastrous accidents.

Oil and gas companies are required to adhere to safety protocols and procedures, such as Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and confined space entry procedures, to minimize the risks faced by their oil and gas workers.

Working in an oil field can expose workers to daily threats to their health and safety. Some common causes of oil field accidents include:

• Falls From a Height: One of the most common causes of oil field accidents is falling from a height. Often, oil rigs and other elevated equipment can become slick, putting workers more at risk for falls. Fall injuries can be especially insidious since many accident victims do not realize they are severely injured for days or weeks. If you fall in an oil field accident, it is in your interest to seek professional medical attention as soon as possible.

• Faulty Equipment: If oil field equipment is not properly maintained, it could malfunction and result in severe injuries for anyone using or in the vicinity of the defective equipment. Manufacturer defects may also contribute to faulty equipment accidents. Since oil field equipment is typically extremely heavy, victims of equipment-related accidents often suffer life-altering and even fatal injuries.
• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Many oil field workers operate a car or truck as part of their daily responsibilities. Often, vehicles may collide with one another or a worker on foot. While these accidents can have various causes, one common factor may be driver or employer negligence.

Equipment Failure

Equipment failure is a leading cause of oilfield accidents. To determine if faulty equipment contributed to an oilfield accident, a lawyer should:

1. Conduct a comprehensive investigation of the accident scene
2. Maintain physical evidence such as photographs of the accident scene or defective equipment
3. Evaluate maintenance records and inspection reports of the equipment involved
4. Consult with professionals in the field to assess the condition of the equipment and ascertain if any defects or malfunctions played a role in the accident.

Upon the identification of equipment failure in an oilfield accident case, the legal proceedings may involve:

• Pursuing financial recompense for the injured worker
• Ascertaining liability for the equipment failure
• Potentially initiating a lawsuit against third parties such as subcontractors or equipment manufacturers who could be responsible for the negligence causing the accident.

Human Error

Human error, such as:

• Fatigue
• Distraction
• Complacency
• Lack of training
• Miscommunication
• Inadequate supervision

A lawyer can effectively identify responsible parties in oilfield accidents caused by human error. This involves:

• Gathering evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Consulting with professionals
• Diligently working to pinpoint the incident’s cause and responsible parties

This can be crucial in holding the negligent parties accountable and securing fair compensation for the injured worker.

Inadequate Safety Measures

Inadequate safety measures can contribute to oilfield accidents when companies fail to comply with safety regulations and implement appropriate precautions to protect their workers. The Texas oilfield industry typically observes safety measures such as:

• Compliance with OSHA regulations
• Utilization of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Clear marking of ground connections and operating procedures
• Training and education
• Adherence to safe operating practices

An oilfield injury lawyer is vital in examining safety measures in accident cases and should undertake the following tasks:

• Detailed investigations into the events surrounding the incident, including physical and cultural aspects
• Collecting evidence
• Conversing with witnesses
• Assessing safety protocols and procedures to determine if proper safety measures were in place
• Striving to identify any parties who may be liable for the accident and hold them answerable.

Types of Oilfield Injuries and Their Consequences

Unfortunately, oil field accidents are responsible for dozens of fatalities every year. While the severity of a victim’s injuries depends heavily on the nature of their accident, many accidents impact victims for years to come. Some common injuries sustained in Texas oil field accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Bone fractures
• Burn injuries
• Amputation or other loss of limb
• Dislocations
• Severe cuts and lacerations
• Neck and back injuries
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Chest injuries
• Joint injuries
• Nerve damage
• Organ damage
• Internal bleeding
• Lung damage
• Toxic gas exposure
• Death

The emotional effects of oilfield injuries can include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, which can have a lasting impact on the victim’s quality of life. Financially, oilfield injuries can lead to mounting medical bills, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity, causing significant hardship for the injured worker and their family.

Physical Effects of Oil Field Injuries

The physical effects of oilfield injuries can be severe and have long-term consequences, necessitating comprehensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Traumatic brain injuries may require long-term rehabilitation and can result in permanent disabilities.

Occupational health professionals and medics working offshore are often involved in the treatment of oilfield injuries. The cost of medical care for oilfield injuries can be significant and can differ depending on the severity of the injury and the necessary treatment. 

Emotional Effects of Oil Field Injuries

The emotional effects of oilfield injuries can have a profound impact on the victim’s quality of life. Research has indicated that workers in the oil and gas industry are more likely to experience anxiety and depression compared to the general population. Furthermore, the emotional trauma of severe injuries, such as burns or amputations, can cause psychological distress, potentially resulting in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Addressing the emotional impact of oilfield injuries is crucial for the victim’s overall well-being. Counseling and therapy may be required to help the injured worker manage the emotional distress and mental health challenges stemming from the accident. Ensuring that they receive the necessary emotional support and guidance is a crucial aspect of their recovery process.

Financial Effects of Oil Field Injuries

The financial effects of oilfield injuries can be devastating for the injured worker and their family. Some of the potential financial impacts include:

• Accumulating medical expenses
• Lost wages due to inability to work
• Other costs related to the injury
• Potential loss of income if the injured worker is unable to return to work

These financial burdens can lead to significant financial difficulties for the injured worker and their family.

Seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering may help alleviate the financial effects of oilfield injuries. By working with an experienced oilfield injury lawyer from Hilliard Law, injured workers can pursue their legal rights and secure the compensation they deserve, helping to ease the financial burden and provide the necessary resources for their recovery and ongoing care.

Legal Rights of Injured Oilfield Workers

Injured oilfield workers have the right to seek compensation for their damages through workers’ compensation benefits and personal injury claims. Workers’ compensation benefits provide coverage for lost wages and medical expenses. A personal injury lawsuit, on the other hand, can offer compensation for physical impairment, pain and suffering, physical disfigurement, future medical costs, and past/future lost wages.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Texas 

Injured oilfield workers might qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, which can cover medical costs and a portion of lost earnings. In Texas, these benefits may include Impairment Income Benefits (IIBs), calculated at 70% of the average weekly wage, and Temporary Income Benefits (TIBs), compensating for lost wages if the worker misses at least seven days due to injury or illness.

The procedure for claiming workers’ compensation benefits for an oilfield injury in Texas generally requires the following steps:

1. Report the injury to the employer within 15 days.
2. File an injury report with the Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation within 30 days.
3. Appeal the initial impairment rating within 90 days if required.

It is recommended to seek legal assistance from Hilliard Law if necessary to ensure the injured worker’s rights are protected and they receive the appropriate workers’ compensation benefits.

Personal Injury Claims

In some cases, injured oilfield workers may also pursue a personal injury claim against any negligent parties for additional compensation. An oilfield worker may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit if:

• Workers’ compensation insurance is not provided by their employer
• The oilfield worker is an independent contractor not covered by workers’ comp
• The at-fault party is external to their employer

A personal injury claim for a Texas oilfield injury is a legal recourse taken by an injured worker to pursue remuneration for losses incurred due to the negligence of another party. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Oilfield operators
• Contractors
• Equipment manufacturers
• Other parties involved in the operation

A successful personal injury lawsuit can provide compensation for:

• Economic damages (such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage)
• Non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life)
• Punitive damages (in cases where the at-fault party acted recklessly, intentionally, or maliciously)

How We Advocate for Injured Oilfield Workers

At Hilliard Law, we are committed to advocating for injured oilfield workers with experience, insight, drive, and grit to pursue justice on behalf of our clients. We provide comprehensive case evaluation, aggressive negotiation and litigation, and ongoing support and guidance, ensuring that our clients receive a favorable outcome for their case.

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

A comprehensive case evaluation in an oilfield injury lawsuit requires a detailed investigation of the accident to gather evidence and relevant facts. It may also involve assessing personal injury damages resulting from the accident. Our experienced oilfield injury lawyers will:

• Investigate the accident
• Gather evidence
• Determine liability
• Calculate potential damages

By analyzing the details of your case, we can pinpoint potential sources of compensation, such as insurance policies, liable parties, or government programs. We also consult with professionals and analyze pertinent laws to formulate a strategy for seeking compensation. This comprehensive evaluation, coupled with our industry-specific knowledge, allows us to create a strong legal strategy to maximize your recovery.

Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation

Assertive negotiation and litigation are key to our advocacy for injured oilfield workers. We employ strategic tactics to secure maximum compensation for our clients, presenting compelling evidence and countering opposition claims while championing the victim’s rights and interests. If necessary, our legal team will be prepared to take the case to trial to ensure the injured worker is awarded the rightful compensation.

Ongoing Support and Guidance

At Hilliard Law, we recognize the difficulties injured oilfield workers and their families face and are dedicated to offering continued support and guidance throughout the legal journey. We provide free consultations to discuss your oil field injury case in detail, assess your legal options, and offer tailored advice.

Our oilfield injury lawyers are dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the necessary emotional support and guidance during their recovery process. From the initial consultation to the final resolution of their case, we are there every step of the way to help our clients navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure their rights are protected.

WORK WITH AN EXPERIENCED OIL FIELD ACCIDENT ATTORNEY TODAY

Oilfield accidents can have severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences for the victims and their families. Hiring an experienced Texas oilfield injury lawyer, such as Hilliard Law, is crucial for navigating the complex legal landscape and securing fair compensation. 

Hilliard Law is committed to championing the rights of injured oilfield workers, providing the experience, insight, drive, and grit needed to pursue justice on behalf of our clients. With our dedication to enforcing accountability from corporations and legislators and advocating for those without a voice, you can trust that we will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.

Call us at 361-203-4394 for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the financial recovery you need.

Areas we serve include Abilene, Amarillo, Arlington, Austin, Brownsville, Chandler, Corpus Christi, Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth, Houston, Laredo, Lubbock, Midland, Mission, Odessa, Plano, Portland, Robstown, San Angelo, San Antonio, Victoria, and surrounding areas.