Texas leads the nation in crude oil reserves and production. According to the U.S. Energy Information Association, Texas has almost one-third of the total U.S. crude oil reserves. Although the reserves are found in several geologic basins throughout the state, the largest fields are in the Permian Basin of West Texas, where more than 20 of the nation’s top 100 oil fields are located.
The U.S. Energy Information Association reports Texas is also the leading crude oil-producing state in the nation, exceeding even the federal offshore areas. This consistent market and demand for workers means there can be a relatively high number of injuries and fatalities in Texas oilfields.
According to statistics listed by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the oil industry reported seven times more fatalities between 2003 to 2010 than any other industry.
A number of negligent acts can cause Oilfield accidents
Oilfield accidents can be caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals or scalding hot water. There are countless causes for oilfield accidents, which can include:
- Falling injuries where fall protection was not provided
- Fires and explosions
- Being caught or crushed by machinery
- Chemical exposure or inhalation
- Injuries caused by failure to look before backing equipment
- Being struck by falling equipment that is not secured
Measures can be taken to avoid these deadly and dangerous accidents. Fall zones should be maintained, fall protection should be provided, and flaggers should be used for overhead loads and reversing in tight quarters. These are just a few of the safety standards employers and contractors should follow to help ensure the safety of their workers.
Oilfield accidents can cause serious financial damage and harm
Oilfield accidents, no matter how small they may seem, can cause great harm. A dropped tool into a fall zone that isn’t properly monitored can cause serious injuries to workers below. Oilfield injuries can include:
- Broken bones
- Burns, lacerations and cuts
- Crush injuries including internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Wrongful death
- Pain, suffering and mental anguish
The costs of these injuries can include medical care and mounting bills while, at the same time, the injured worker may be out of work or unable to work as a result of his or her injuries. The loss of income can be devastating as bills continue to pile up.
Hire an Oilfield accident attorney
More than one party may be at fault for an oil field accident, and determining liability can be challenging. An attorney willing to dedicate the time and put in the work necessary to fully prosecute your claim is crucial to obtaining a full recovery for your harms and losses. The Nigam Law Firm, PLLC is will go the extra mile and fight for the compensation you deserve.
