Dedicated to Our Texas Clients
The United States is known as one of the largest oil producers in the world, and much of the oil and gas we produce comes from Texas. Thousands of Texans work in oilfields and depend on these jobs for their livelihoods.
Although oil and gas production can be done safely, it’s a dangerous industry when companies cut corners and put profits over safety. Companies are still expected to provide a safe environment for their employees and others on the job site.
Unfortunately, many companies don’t take safety seriously, and they make profits their top priority. Oilfield workers are seven times more likely to suffer fatal injuries on the job than in other professions.
Contact us online or by phone at (979) 300-7406 for a free consultation after your accident. Our Bryan and College Station attorneys can provide you with options, should you wish to proceed with your case.
How Do Oilfield Accidents Happen?
There are a variety of ways that injuries can be caused in the oil and gas industry. Some common types of accidents that our attorneys have encountered are described below.
Common oilfield injuries can be caused by:
Heavy Equipment Defects
Workers often operate heavy equipment on oil and gas sites, and this equipment must be designed, maintained, and operated correctly to be safe. Unfortunately, a failure in any one of these areas can lead to serious injuries or even death.
Sometimes the machinery fails and causes serious injury, resulting from:
- Mechanical defects
- Inadequate safety inspections
- Inadequate maintenance
Sometimes workers receive improper training to operate this heavy equipment, and that can put themselves and others at risk.
Fires & Explosions
Flammable gases and vapors are present at work sites and can easily be ignited by heat, electricity, or open flames.
Fires and explosions can cause catastrophic injuries, including:
- Severe burns
- Amputations
- Head and brain trauma
- Spinal cord damage
Fracking Accidents
Fracking, which involves high-pressure injection that allows petroleum to flow, can be a dangerous process that can injure workers. Additionally, fracking sites can cause chemical spills that can burn anyone in the vicinity.
Truck Accidents
Injuries can be caused by collisions with other vehicles or heavy equipment, as well as by overturns.
Common causes for oilfield trucking accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Poor driving conditions
- Driving while under the influence
- And more
Slip & Fall Accidents
Oil sites can create a number of obstacles for workers that cause slip-and-fall accidents. Many workers have to work from platforms and equipment that stand high off the ground, which creates a danger of falling from heights.
Accidents from Working in Confined Spaces
Some workers have to work in confined spaces like tanks and containers, and there’s a potential risk of being crushed or exposed to hazardous chemicals within the containers.
What Are the Most Common Oilfield Injuries in Texas?
Oilfield injuries can involve just about anything, including:
- Head and brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Amputations
- Death
The more serious the injury, the more expensive it can be to treat the injury.
What Damages Are Available in Oilfield Accidents?
Our lawyers can secure the compensation you need from liable parties so you can recover damages, including:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Determining liability in an oilfield can be difficult, but our attorneys have years of experience utilizing our resources and knowing what evidence to look out for to prove your case.
How Our Injury Firm Can Help
Just because your industry comes with greater risks doesn’t mean you deserve to be injured. If you or someone you love were injured as a result of someone else’s wrongful actions, our Bryan, Texas oilfield injury attorneys can help.
The Payne Law Group can investigate your accident and determine who should be held liable, so we can pursue justice on your behalf.
Our oilfield injury attorneys in Bryan, Texas are here for you. Call our firm at (979) 300-7406 or contact us online to schedule an appointment whenever you’re available, including after hours and on weekends. We also represent clients in College Station!