To avoid becoming a victim of oil field accidents, workers must be aware of their surroundings and always take appropriate precautionary measures. Employers are required to ensure safety measures are in place and to deal with any accidents swiftly, should they occur.
Types of Oil Field Accidents
As one of the most dangerous industries in the world, there is an elevated risk of sustaining severe injuries in the oil field. Even highly trained workers face increased risk; while caution and skills can help a worker avoid an accident some are inevitable due to the nature of the job.
Among the most common types of oil field accidents that lead to catastrophic injuries are:
- Slip and fall on uneven surfaces or elevated rigs
- Equipment malfunction
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals, including hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, and benzene
- Explosions and fires due to pressurized gasses erupting
- Inadequate safety protocols, careless conduct from other workers, and improper training
Common Oil Field Injuries
Accidents involving oil field workers often lead to debilitating injuries that affect an individual’s physical, emotional, psychological, and financial well-being. Some of the most common injuries are broken bones, head and neck injuries, and burns. More extreme injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Amputations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Nerve damage
- Lacerations
Even minor injuries can result in medical expenses, the inability to work, and physical and emotional suffering.
Can I Claim Workers’ Compensation?
All employers in Oklahoma are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, but this does not necessarily mean you are eligible to file a claim. For example, if you are classified as a “contract worker,” the company you are working for does not have to provide coverage. And even when workers’ comp is an option, it is not always the best option. When someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, such as an employer or equipment manufacturer, you may be entitled to hold them responsible for their negligence and seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
Neither option is right in every situation. The best way to explore your legal options and learn what may be right for you is through a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
Please call Johnson & Biscone at 405-232-6490 to schedule a complimentary case review today. We serve injured oil field workers in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, and throughout the state of Oklahoma.
