The fracking boom has brought a surge of economic activity to Texas and the Brazos Valley and exposed many workers to serious risks and hazards. Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” is a process that involves injecting highly pressurized fluids into underground rock formations to extract oil and natural gas. While this technique has unlocked vast energy reserves, it also carries inherent dangers for those working on fracking sites.
From heavy machinery and equipment failures to exposure to toxic chemicals and substances, fracking workers face numerous potential risks that can lead to devastating injuries. Blunt force trauma, burns, respiratory issues, hearing loss, and crush injuries are just some of the severe injuries that can occur on a fracking site.
In this blog, The Payne Law Group will discuss common injuries, their causes, and your options for recovering financially.
Common Fracking Injuries
Working on a fracking site exposes workers to a range of hazards that can lead to severe and life-altering injuries. Some of the most common injuries sustained by fracking workers include:
- Blunt force trauma: The heavy machinery and equipment used in fracking operations can pose significant risks. Equipment failures, falling objects, and other accidents can result in serious blunt-force trauma injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones.
- Burn injuries: Fracking sites are prone to fires and explosions due to the presence of flammable materials and high-pressure operations. Workers can suffer severe burn injuries from these incidents, ranging from minor burns to life-threatening third-degree burns.
- Respiratory issues: Fracking operations involve using numerous chemicals and releasing silica dust, which can be harmful when inhaled. Prolonged exposure to these airborne contaminants can lead to respiratory problems, including lung diseases like silicosis and other chronic respiratory conditions.
- Hearing loss: Heavy machinery and equipment used on fracking sites often create extreme noise levels. Without proper hearing protection, workers can experience temporary or permanent hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and other auditory problems.
- Crush injuries: Fracking sites are filled with heavy equipment and machinery, creating a risk of crush injuries. These injuries can occur when a worker is caught between two objects or struck by a falling or rolling object, potentially leading to severe injuries to the limbs, torso, or other body parts.
While this list covers some of the most common fracking injuries, workers can also sustain other types of injuries depending on the specific circumstances of their job site and the nature of the accident or exposure.
Causes of Fracking Injuries
Fracking operations involve many potential hazards that can lead to worker injuries. Understanding the root causes of these injuries is crucial for preventing future incidents and holding negligent parties accountable. Some of the primary causes of fracking injuries include:
- Equipment failure or malfunction: The heavy machinery and equipment used in fracking operations, like drill rigs, pumps, and trucks, are subject to wear and tear, and mechanical failures can occur.
- Lack of proper safety equipment or training: Fracking companies and contractors are responsible for providing their workers with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and comprehensive safety training.
- Negligence of employers or co-workers: Negligent actions or omissions by employers, supervisors, or co-workers can directly contribute to fracking injuries. These can include failure to follow safety protocols, inadequate supervision, or careless behavior that creates unsafe working conditions.
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals or substances: Fracking operations involve using numerous chemicals, some of which can be toxic or hazardous if not handled properly.
- Environmental factors: Fracking sites can be located in remote or challenging environments, exposing workers to additional risks.
By identifying and addressing these causes, fracking companies and contractors can improve safety measures, implement better training programs, and foster a workplace safety culture to reduce the risk of injuries on fracking sites.
Legal Representation for Injured Fracking Workers
If you or a loved one have been injured while working on a fracking site, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. Navigating the legal process can be complex, but with the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney, you can increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to various types of claims and compensation, including:
- Workers’ compensation claims: In Texas, most employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, which can provide medical benefits and partial wage replacement for employees injured on the job.
- Third-party liability claims: If your injury was caused by the negligence of a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer, contractor, or another company working on the site, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against that party.
- Product liability claims: If a defective piece of equipment or machinery contributed to your injury, you may have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor.
- Premises liability claims: Fracking companies and site operators have a duty to maintain safe working conditions. If your injury was caused by an unsafe condition on the premises, you may be able to pursue a premises liability claim.
An experienced personal injury attorney can thoroughly investigate your case and identify all potential sources of compensation.
Contact The Payne Law Group
Working on a fracking site is a dangerous job that exposes workers to countless risks and hazards. From heavy machinery and equipment failures to exposure to toxic chemicals and substances, the potential for severe injuries is extremely high.
At The Payne Law Group, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured fracking workers in Bryan and College Station, Texas. We understand the complexities of these cases and the tactics often employed by insurance companies and large corporations to minimize their liability. Our team will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your injury, gather evidence, and build a strong case to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation.