Oilfield and Refinery Accidents

Oilfield and refinery accidents involve blowouts, explosions, fires and equipment failures.

Oilfield and Refinery Accidents cases are part of our Workplace and Construction Injuries practice. Our attorneys focus on identifying these third-party claims, which can provide compensation that workers' compensation does not, such as pain and suffering and full lost earnings.

Common Causes in Workplace and Construction Injuries Cases

• Falls from roofs, ladders and scaffolding
• Struck-by and caught-between incidents
• Crane, forklift and heavy machinery accidents
• Trench and excavation collapses
• Electrocution and burns
• Defective tools and equipment

Injuries Often Involved

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Crush injuries and amputations
• Burns
• Fractures

Workers' Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims

Workers' compensation generally provides medical and wage benefits regardless of fault, but it usually prevents a lawsuit against your own employer. When someone other than your employer — a general contractor, subcontractor, property owner or manufacturer — contributed to your injury, you may also have a third-party claim. Safety violations can be important evidence. Workers' compensation itself is a separate specialty; we will explain how it interacts with any third-party case.

Evidence That Can Prove Your Claim

Strong cases are built on evidence gathered early. Depending on the facts, we work to obtain:

• Incident reports and safety inspection findings
• Site safety plans and training records
• Equipment inspection and maintenance logs
• Witness and co-worker statements
• Medical and employment records

Who May Be Responsible

More than one party may share responsibility, which can increase the insurance coverage available. Potentially liable parties include:

• General contractors and subcontractors
• Property owners
• Equipment manufacturers and rental companies
• Other third parties whose negligence contributed

What to Do Next

1. Get medical care and report the injury to your employer in writing
2. Note the equipment, conditions and companies involved
3. Photograph the scene and equipment if it is safe to do so
4. Collect co-worker and witness names
5. Keep copies of medical and employment records
6. Speak with an attorney about third-party claims

Compensation You May Be Able to Recover

Depending on the facts and the law that applies, a claim may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain, suffering and emotional distress
• Rehabilitation, long-term care and home modification costs
• Property damage and other out-of-pocket losses

Why Acting Early Matters

Every state sets deadlines for filing injury claims, and claims involving government entities can require formal notice within a much shorter time. Video footage, records and physical evidence can be lost quickly. Speaking with an attorney early protects your options.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

We investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, document the full extent of your losses and pursue a fair settlement — and we are prepared to go to court when an insurer will not be reasonable. Personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Consultations are free and confidential.