Texas Oilfield Accident Lawyers
Serving Clients Nationwide from Our Texas Offices in Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, and San Antonio
In the wake of an oilfield accident, securing experienced legal representation is crucial to navigating the complexities of such cases. At Thomas J. Henry Law, our team of seasoned oilfield accident lawyers in Texas is well-versed in the unique challenges and hazards inherent in the oil and gas industry.
We have a strong track record of obtaining significant compensation for our clients, and we are dedicated to protecting your rights and facilitating your recovery. Our comprehensive legal strategy ensures you receive the support needed during this challenging time, allowing us to fight for the justice you deserve.
Understanding the Nature of Oilfield Accidents
Oilfield accidents are a harsh reality in the energy sector, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. These incidents can manifest in various forms, such as:
- Rig collapses
- Explosions
- Chemical spills
- Vehicle accidents
The primary causes include equipment malfunctions, human error, inadequate safety protocols, and adverse weather conditions. Recognizing these factors is vital for both workers and employers to reduce risks and enhance safety measures.
Texas, renowned for its extensive oil and gas production, has particularly alarming statistics concerning oilfield accidents. Recent reports highlight Texas as a leading state in oilfield-related injuries in the U.S. In 2020 alone, over 700 incidents were reported, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. This data underscores the critical need for safety compliance and the importance of experienced legal representation for affected individuals.
Factors contributing to these accidents include:
- Inherent hazards of the work environment, involving heavy machinery and high-pressure systems
- Remote oilfield locations complicating emergency responses
- Insufficient worker training increasing risk levels
- Employers prioritizing production over safety protocols
At Thomas J. Henry Law, we understand these complexities and the dangers associated with oilfield work. Our experienced oilfield accident lawyers and oilfield injury attorneys are committed to defending the rights of injured workers and their families, ensuring they receive rightful compensation. If you or someone you love has been impacted by an oilfield accident, our knowledgeable oilfield injury lawyer team is ready to guide you through the legal process, offering the support and expertise you need.
Common Injuries Sustained in Oilfield Accidents
The inherent risks of oilfield work often result in severe, life-changing injuries. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Fractures
- Burns
- Spinal cord injuries
These injuries often arise from falls, equipment malfunctions, or exposure to hazardous materials. For instance, slips and falls are prevalent due to uneven terrain and heavy machinery presence, leading to serious injuries requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
The long-term impacts of oilfield injuries can severely affect a worker’s quality of life, leading to:
- Chronic pain
- Limited mobility
- Psychological issues, such as PTSD
These ongoing health challenges can hinder a worker’s ability to return to work or perform daily activities, causing financial and emotional strain. It is crucial for injured workers to seek immediate and long-term medical care to effectively manage these effects.
Statistics reveal the alarming reality of the industry’s dangers. Oilfield workers face higher injury risks than other industries, with thousands of claims filed each year. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) notes that oil and gas extraction has one of the highest fatality rates among all occupations, highlighting the need for skilled legal representation. Engaging with experienced oilfield injury lawyers and oilfield injury attorneys can significantly improve your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an oilfield accident, consulting with knowledgeable oilfield injury lawyers is crucial. At Thomas J. Henry Law, our dedicated team of oilfield injury attorneys is committed to navigating the legal landscape for you, ensuring the best possible outcome for your situation.
Choosing Thomas J. Henry Law as Your Oilfield Accident Lawyers
Navigating the complex world of oilfield accident claims requires an experienced and dedicated legal team. At Thomas J. Henry Law, our extensive experience and proven success in handling oilfield accident cases set us apart. We have secured significant compensation for our clients by understanding the unique challenges these cases present and effectively advocating for your rights.
Each oilfield accident is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach will not yield the best results. We develop personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation. Our team listens to your story, assesses the accident details, and crafts a plan aligned with your goals. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial, we are prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our commitment to clients is reflected in the testimonials and case studies we share. Clients appreciate not only our legal expertise but also our compassionate approach during difficult times. For example, one client stated, “Thomas J. Henry Law was there for me every step of the way. They truly understood what I was going through and fought tirelessly to ensure I received the compensation I needed to recover.” These testimonials are a testament to our relentless pursuit of justice for oilfield accident victims.
Choosing the right oilfield accidents lawyer can significantly impact your case’s outcome. At Thomas J. Henry Law, we combine our extensive experience, personalized strategies, and a proven track record of success to provide you with the best possible representation. Let us put our expertise to work for you, allowing you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Immediate Steps After an Oilfield Accident
Experiencing an oilfield accident can be traumatic. Knowing what steps to take immediately afterward is crucial for your health and legal rights. Here’s what to do:
- Ensure your safety and those around you by moving away from potential hazards, if safe to do so.
- Call for emergency medical assistance if anyone is injured. Prompt action can save lives and improve recovery outcomes.
Seeking medical attention should be a top priority, even if injuries seem minor. Many injuries in high-risk environments can worsen over time or may not show symptoms immediately. A thorough medical evaluation not only protects your health but also creates a vital record of your injuries, essential for legal action.
After ensuring safety and receiving medical care, gather evidence and document the incident thoroughly:
- Take photographs of the accident scene, equipment involved, and any visible injuries.
- Collect contact information from witnesses and obtain statements if possible.
- Record any conversations with supervisors or safety personnel about the incident.
This information is invaluable for constructing a clear narrative of events, critical for building a strong case.
At Thomas J. Henry Law, our experienced oilfield accidents lawyer and oilfield injury attorney team understand these cases’ complexities. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal landscape, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. We emphasize the importance of acting swiftly and methodically after an oilfield accident to protect your rights and future.
Compensation Options for Oilfield Accident Victims
Oilfield accidents can devastate workers and their families. Understanding compensation options is crucial for victims pursuing a claim. Common forms of compensation include:
- Medical bills related to hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing therapy.
- Lost wages.
- Rehabilitation costs and pain and suffering.
- Future lost earnings if the accident leads to long-term disability.
Calculating damages in oilfield accident cases involves assessing both economic and non-economic losses:
- Economic damages: Measurable costs like medical expenses and lost wages.
- Non-economic damages: Emotional distress and diminished quality of life, requiring a nuanced approach.
An experienced oilfield injury lawyer can help gather necessary documentation and evidence to accurately calculate total damages, ensuring the pursuit of maximum compensation.
Victims often face a choice between filing a claim with the responsible party’s insurance or pursuing a lawsuit:
- Filing a claim: Generally the first step, potentially leading to a quicker resolution.
- Pursuing a lawsuit: Necessary if the insurance company denies the claim or offers an inadequate settlement. Legal action allows presenting your case in court for compensation determination.
Working with skilled oilfield injury attorneys, like those at Thomas J. Henry Law, can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome, whether filing a claim or proceeding with litigation.
Injured on An Oilfield? Contact Thomas J. Henry
If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury while working on an oilfield, contact Thomas J. Henry Injury Attorneys immediately. Our oilfield injury lawyers in Texas are backed by the legal and financial resources necessary to take on large oil companies and achieve the compensation you deserve. At Thomas J. Henry, we ensure that our clients are informed throughout the entire legal process while they focus on recovering from their injuries.
Our firm has offices in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and Austin serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Contact us today for a free legal consultation.
Contact us for a free case review
Your Oilfield Accident Questions Answered
We have straight answers to difficult questions to help you make critical decisions, navigate legal process and help you get justice.
Following an oilfield accident, there are always more questions than answers. At Thomas J. Henry, we’re here to answer any questions you have about your injury case.
Do I Need to Hire an Attorney for My Oilfield Accident?
When it comes to oilfield related injuries and deaths, it is best to hire an attorney as soon as possible.
Oilfield injury litigation is extremely complex, and oil and gas extraction job sites are very hectic when active. Hiring an attorney as soon as an injury or death occurs will help ensure that important material evidence is secured.
Not only will your oilfield injury attorney file a temporary restraining order to preserve evidence, but your attorney will also hire industry and Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) experts to investigate the job site for any potential safety violations.
Safety violations often include:
- Poorly maintained equipment
- Failure to provide adequate fall protection
- Failure to meet hazard communication standards
- Failure to provide adequate respiratory protection
- General transportation safety violations
- Failure to meet general machinery and machine guard requirements
- Failure to control hazardous energy
How Can an Expert Witness Help in My Oilfield Lawsuit?
Not only are experts essential in finding and retaining evidence at the scene, but they can also provide expert analysis of their findings and expert testimony during trial and arbitration.
Thomas J. Henry has spent years finding and building professional relationships with the best expert witnesses from all across the country. Expert witnesses that could benefit your oilfield lawsuit include:
- Welding experts
- Process safety management experts
- Safety equipment experts
- Hazardous chemical experts
- State and Federal OSHA consultants and inspectors
- Accident reconstruction experts
- Engineering experts
- Confined space permit experts
- Environment health experts
A Loved One Died as a Result of an Oilfield Accident. What Can I Do?
It is no secret that oil and gas extraction is a high-risk industry. According to a recent analysis by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), oil and gas extraction workers are killed on the job at a rate seven times greater than the average U.S. workers.
While we all hope that our loved ones will return from work safe from harm, the unfortunate truth is those workplace accidents, injuries, and deaths do happen – and while nothing can ever remedy the pain of losing a loved one, holding those responsible for the death of a loved one can help provide stability for your family in what is most certainly a turbulent time.
What are the Most Common Types of Oilfield Accidents?
Workers on an oilfield are exposed to a wide variety of hazards. Some common examples of oilfield accidents include:
- Oil well blowouts
- Explosions and fires
- Transportation accidents involving the transport of workers to and from the field
- Slips and falls due to slick surfaces
- Struck/caught in machinery or equipment
- Exposure to harmful chemicals or other materials
- Defective, faulty, or poorly maintained drilling equipment and machinery
These accidents can cause life-altering and debilitating injuries, including burns, brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord and back injuries, eye injuries. Unfortunately, the oil and gas extraction industry is no stranger to fatal injuries as well — 120 workers were killed on the job in 2015. The mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction industry as a whole had the third-largest fatal work injury rate in the United States in 2015.
What Types of Oilfield Jobs can Lead to Accidents and Injuries?
Every drilling site is manned by several crews, each composed of several different types of workers depending on the site and the type of rig.
Roustabouts, floorhands, or roughnecks perform much of the basic, labor-intensive maintenance and drilling tasks. These workers maintain and keep the drilling area clean, remove hazards, and move equipment around the rig for other workers to use. A lot of the grunt work required at an oil rig is taken care of by roustabouts so the other workers can extract oil efficiently.
A motorhand or motorman is responsible for maintaining the engines that power the drilling equipment and other machinery at the drilling site. Oil rigs may have diesel engines, electric engines, or both. These workers also supervise roustabouts, test equipment for safety, operate with the oil rig boilers, assist with the drill pipe, and help other crew members as needed.
Derrickhands, derrickmen, or derrick operators guide the uppermost section of the drill as it is lowered and raised from the wellbore, known as tripping. These employees are often stationed on a platform high above the ground above the rig in order to head the tripping process. Derrickhands also assist with the mixing and operation of the mud system, helping drillers, and various upkeep on drilling equipment.
A rig operator or driller supervises crew members of an oil rig, specializing in resolving or troubleshooting problems if they arise. They also monitor the work area for safety issues and maintains safety policies. Drillers are tasked with training crew members on safety procedures, conducting drills for blowout prevention, performing equipment maintenance checks, and other personnel-focused management. These oil workers are often assisting with the operation of drill controls and other equipment.
A toolpusher, or oil rig manager, is the supervisor of the oil rig and responsible for all other personnel on-site. These managers oversee drillers, derrickhands, motorhands, and roustabouts and provide leadership, important training, and problem-solving in regards to employees and oil rig operation. Toolpushers manage the installation of rigs, make sure government and environmental laws are followed, and coordinate the workers in several crews.
Other oilfield occupations include petroleum engineers, pipeline walkers, pipefitters, and pipelayers.
Due to the nature of the job, every worker involved on the oilfield at some point or another could be involved in an incident, depending upon what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. Supervisors and even owners of facilities can be seriously injured or lose their life, depending upon who’s on that property, who’s conducting work, and whether it’s being done safely. When drilling operations are being done unsafely and outside the prescribed safety regulations, workers are put at grave risk of injury or worse.
Why
choose
us?
We help clients across the U.S. with all types of injury cases, including vehicle accidents, slip and falls, wrongful death, product recalls, pharmaceutical cases, mass tort, and more.
Thomas J. Henry offers a “No Fee Promise.” We work on a contingency fee basis which means you do not pay our firm any fees unless and until we win your case. Learn more.
If you’ve been hurt, you may have a damaged vehicle or be unable to work. We can help get you a rental car if your vehicle is damaged and even advance money on qualified cases.
We are committed to your complete recovery. We will work with you to ensure you receive the necessary medical treatment and support for your healing journey.
If you’ve been hurt, you may not be able to come into our offices to speak to an attorney. Don’t worry, we will come to you wherever you are – at home, work, or hospital.
Our locations
Locations
Corpus Christi
San Antonio
Austin
Dallas
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Customer
Reviews
Care and comfort for clients is the #1 priority for these guys. You guys continue to provide the best for everyone!
Took care of my friend and her daughters accident case! Got the maximum allowed! Also I love he gives back to our community!
Thank you for all your help and support!!!
Very helpful and straight forward with my case. Very satisfied.
At one of the lowest points in my life, when the world literally came crashing down on me, I made the best decision in my life by seeking immediate representation by this law firm!
Truly was always there when I reached out. White glove service.
Very professional and courteous staff. Gets the job done swiftly and promptly! Friendly and always treats you with respect.
Very professional and overall great experience!
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