The oil and gas industry has an unfortunate reputation for being dangerous. Serious injuries can occur in countless ways, especially when negligence is involved. Fortunately, with the help of a dedicated personal injury attorney, it is possible to recover financial compensation for these injuries.
If you were hurt in an oilfield accident, you should seek out legal help right away. You may have more options for securing compensation than you realize. Reach out to a Houston oilfield accident lawyer today to get started.
What Causes Oilfield Injuries?
There are many situations that can cause serious injuries in oilfields. Incidents can involve everything from fires to vehicle collisions, leaving you with long-term health consequences to deal with. Our Houston attorneys could pursue a case on your behalf for oilfield accident injuries caused by all sorts of factors.
Inexperienced Workers
One of the most dangerous factors in an oilfield environment is the presence of inexperienced workers. Employees who have not spent much time in the oil and gas industry are often prone to mistakes, and these errors can be costly. A particular concern is their potential unfamiliarity with safety protocols and procedures.
Deficient Safety Procedures
Employers have an obligation to meet certain safety requirements. When they fail to do so, it is the workers in the oilfield who are at risk. Deficiencies can include anything from the failure to require appropriate footwear to inadequate maintenance of heavy machinery. Any failure by employers to follow state or federal safety procedures can result in a viable claim of negligence.
Defective Equipment
Some of the most catastrophic oilfield accidents occur due to mechanical defects. The constant presence of flammable substances means an explosion can quickly lead to severe—or even fatal—injuries. When defects cause accidents, you may have the right to sue the manufacturer even if your employer is part of the workers’ compensation system.
At Williams Hart & Boundas, we are not afraid to go after negligent companies and manufacturers, and we are ready to go the extra mile to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Why You Should Consider Filing a Personal Injury Claim
If you were hurt while working in an oilfield, it is natural to wonder whether your only option to recover damages is a workers’ compensation claim. The good news is that a Houston attorney might be able to help you pursue a personal injury lawsuit over your oilfield accident instead.
The distinction is important, as a civil suit offers more potential types of damages than a workers’ compensation claim. With the workers’ compensation system, your claim is limited to some of your lost wages and the cost of your medical care. A personal injury lawsuit could allow you to recover the full value of past and future lost income, pain and suffering, and a variety of other financial awards.
Unlike most other states, many employers in Texas are exempt from the workers’ compensation system. Known as non-subscribers, these companies choose not to be a part of the system in order to avoid costly insurance premiums, but in return, employees can hold them liable for negligence.
If your employer is a non-subscriber, our team is here to help. We can advise you on your legal options and assist you with planning the best path forward.
Talk to a Houston Oilfield Accident Attorney Today
If you have been injured in an oilfield accident, it is crucial that you speak to an attorney as soon as you can. Recovering the damages you deserve only becomes more difficult as time goes by. To maximize your recovery, you should act now.
Let a Houston oilfield accident lawyer from Williams Hart & Boundas investigate your case and advise you on your choices. Call today to set up your confidential consultation.