The oil industry in and around San Antonio is a double-edged sword, where fortunes rise alongside the towering derricks that dot the South Texas landscape. It’s a thriving, lucrative business that has long been the backbone of the region’s economy, but it’s also an industry notorious for its dangers. According to the CDC, offshore oil and gas workers are seven times more likely to die on the job than the average worker in the U.S.
At the Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS, we understand that when the pursuit of profit collides with the safety of workers, the consequences can be catastrophic. Our team of experienced San Antonio oil rig accident lawyers is dedicated to seeking justice for injured workers and their families. If you or a loved one has been affected by an oil rig accident, our firm is here to help you navigate the complex legal terrain and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Hire The Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS, for Your Oil Rig Accident Claim?
At the Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS, our San Antonio oil rig accident lawyers are dedicated to being your staunch advocates when you’re fighting for compensation and justice. Here are six compelling reasons to entrust your oil rig accident claim to our firm:
- Experience With Oil Rig Accident Cases: Our personal injury lawyers have handled several oil rig accident cases, and we know how to collect evidence and present a strong argument. This ensures that you have seasoned professionals on your side.
- Proven Track Record of Success: We have a strong track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for injured oil rig workers and their families. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a reputation for delivering results.
- Detailed Investigation: We leave no stone unturned when it comes to investigating your oil rig accident. Our team works diligently to gather evidence, consult experts, and reconstruct the events leading to your injury to build a compelling case on your behalf.
- Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation Skills: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators, but we’re also prepared to take your case to court if necessary. We will fiercely advocate for your rights and interests at every stage of the legal process.
- Client-Centered Approach: We understand the toll that an oil rig accident can take on you and your family. Our firm is committed to providing compassionate support and guidance throughout your journey toward recovery.
- No Upfront Fees and Free Consultation: At the Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS, we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Additionally, we offer a free initial consultation to assess your situation and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
The Profit and Peril of San Antonio’s Oil Industry
San Antonio’s economy has long been intertwined with the oil and gas sector. Its proximity to the Eagle Ford Shale makes the city a hub for drilling, production, and distribution. The appeal of the oil industry lies in its potential for substantial financial gain, offering lucrative opportunities for workers who operate on the frontlines of this high-risk profession. However, with great profit comes great peril.
Common Oil Drilling Accident Injuries
Injuries sustained while working in the oil drilling industry are often severe. Whether an injury occurs due to a motor vehicle accident, while using tools, or due to heavy equipment, it is not uncommon for our San Antonio oil drilling accident attorneys to help clients who have sustained the following:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Open head injuries
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Severe lacerations
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Amputation or dismemberment
- Burns from fires and explosions
- Significant disfigurement
- Permanent disability
Common Causes of Oil Rig Accidents in San Antonio
Oil rig accidents in San Antonio can result from a combination of factors. Understanding the common causes of these accidents is crucial for preventing future incidents and ensuring the safety of workers. Here are some common causes of oil rig accidents in San Antonio:
- Equipment Failure: Malfunctions or failures of equipment, including drilling machinery, pressure control systems, and safety devices, can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance and inspection of equipment are essential to prevent such failures.
- Blowouts: A blowout occurs when there is an uncontrolled release of oil or gas from the well. This can happen due to a failure in the wellhead, casing, or control systems. Blowouts can lead to explosions, fires, and significant environmental damage.
- Inadequate Training: Oil rig workers must receive proper training to operate complex machinery and follow safety protocols. Inadequate training can result in accidents caused by human error.
- Safety Violations: Ignoring or bypassing safety regulations and protocols can have dire consequences. Safety violations may include inadequate personal protective equipment, improper handling of hazardous materials, or disregarding safety procedures.
- Communication Failures: Effective communication among workers, supervisors, and contractors is crucial for safety. Miscommunications or misunderstandings can result in accidents, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Inadequate Maintenance: Regular maintenance of equipment and infrastructure is essential to prevent wear and tear that could lead to accidents. Neglecting maintenance can result in the deterioration of critical components.
- Lack of Proper Safety Protocols: Some companies may cut corners on safety protocols to save time or money. This can include failing to conduct safety drills, inspections, or emergency response training.
- Chemical Exposure: Workers on oil rigs are exposed to various chemicals used in drilling and production. Improper handling, storage, or disposal of these chemicals can lead to hazardous situations and health issues.
What to Do After an Oil Rig Accident
Experiencing an oil rig accident is a traumatic and life-altering event. In the aftermath of such an incident, it’s essential to take immediate and deliberate steps to protect your well-being, secure your rights, and pave the way for a potential legal claim.
- First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Follow emergency procedures, evacuate if necessary, and seek medical attention for injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. Your health should be the top priority. Medical records will also provide a documented record of your injuries.
- Notify your supervisor, employer, or rig manager about the accident as soon as possible. Be thorough and accurate in describing the incident and the injuries sustained. This step is essential for documenting the event and initiating an internal investigation.
- If it’s safe to do so, gather information at the accident scene. Take photographs or videos of the area, any damaged equipment, and any hazardous conditions. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence later.
- Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as your work clothes, equipment, and any documents or records that may be relevant. Do not alter or dispose of any evidence, as it may be crucial for your case.
- If there were witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information and statements if possible. Witness accounts can provide additional perspectives and corroborate your version of events.
- Reach out to an experienced oil rig accident attorney as soon as possible. Legal professionals can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you understand your options for pursuing compensation.
FAQS
What Compensation Am I Entitled To?
When you sustain injuries on the job in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation through various avenues, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system designed to provide financial protection to employees who are injured while performing their job duties. In Texas, it’s not mandatory for employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance, but many do. If your employer has workers’ compensation coverage, you may be eligible for the following benefits:
- Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation typically covers the cost of necessary medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and medical equipment related to your workplace injury.
- Lost Wages: Workers’ compensation can provide a portion of your lost wages while you are unable to work due to your injury. This is typically calculated as a percentage of your average weekly wage.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Workers’ compensation may cover vocational rehabilitation services if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job.
- Death Benefits: In the unfortunate event of a fatal workplace accident, workers’ compensation can provide death benefits to the surviving dependents of the deceased worker.
It’s important to note that workers’ compensation benefits typically cover economic damages, such as medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, but they do not include compensation for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Personal Injury Claims
If your employer doesn’t carry workers’ compensation insurance or if your injuries were caused by a third party (someone other than your employer or co-worker), you may have the option to file a personal injury claim. Personal injury claims allow you to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: You can pursue compensation for all past and future medical expenses related to your workplace injuries.
- Lost Wages: In a personal injury claim, you can seek full compensation for all your lost wages, including future earning capacity if your injuries result in a long-term disability.
- Pain and Suffering: Personal injury claims can include compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you’ve endured as a result of the accident.
- Mental Anguish: If the workplace accident has caused emotional distress or mental health issues, you can seek compensation for mental anguish.
- Loss of Consortium: In cases where your injuries have negatively impacted your relationships with family members, you may be able to seek compensation for the loss of consortium.
It’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to evaluate your case and determine whether pursuing a personal injury claim is appropriate. These claims can be complex, and having legal representation is crucial to maximize your potential compensation.
Who Is Liable for an Oil Rig Accident?
Determining liability for an oil rig accident can be difficult, as multiple parties may be involved and liability can vary. Here are some of the potential parties that could be liable for an oil rig accident:
- Employer: In many cases, the employer is responsible for providing a safe work environment and ensuring that employees are properly trained and equipped to perform their job duties safely. If an accident occurs due to the employer’s negligence, they may be held liable.
- Contractors and Subcontractors: Oil rig operations often involve multiple contractors and subcontractors working together. If the actions or negligence of a contractor or subcontractor contributed to the accident, they could be held liable.
- Equipment Manufacturers: If a defective piece of equipment or machinery on the oil rig caused the accident, the manufacturer of that equipment may be liable for producing a faulty product.
- Third Parties: In some cases, a third party not directly involved in the oil rig’s operation may be liable. For example, if a delivery truck driver or a visitor to the rig causes an accident through negligence, they could be held responsible.
Establishing liability often requires a thorough investigation, which may involve examining the accident scene, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts in the field. If you’ve been injured in an oil rig accident, consult with an experienced attorney who can help you determine who may be liable for your injuries. An attorney can then pursue a legal claim on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve.
Get a Free Consultation From a San Antonio Oil Rig Accident Lawyer
The oil industry is inherently hazardous, with workers routinely exposed to dangers such as explosions, fires, toxic chemicals, heavy machinery accidents, and falls from great heights. In the rush to extract and refine oil, safety protocols can sometimes be neglected, putting the lives of workers in jeopardy.
If you’ve been injured in an oil rig accident in San Antonio or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact The Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS, today. Our San Antonio oil rig accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and your future. To schedule a free initial consultation, call (210) 800-0000 or contact us online today.
