Oilfield Accident Lawyer in West Texas

West Texas, including the Permian Basin, is the center of one of the world's most productive oil and gas regions. The work offers good pay, but it is also among the most dangerous in the country. Long shifts, heavy equipment, high-pressure systems and flammable materials make serious injuries and deaths all too common. The Daspit Law Firm represents injured oilfield workers and their families, with offices in Midland and El Paso.

Common Causes of Oilfield Accidents

•       Explosions and fires from gas, vapors or well control failures

•       Blowouts and well control incidents

•       Exposure to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and other toxic gases

•       Equipment and rig collapses

•       Being struck by or caught in heavy machinery and equipment

•       Falls from rigs, derricks, tanks and platforms

•       Truck and heavy equipment crashes, see 18-wheeler accidents

•       Fatigue from long shifts and inadequate training

Common Oilfield Injuries

•       Severe burns

•       Crushed bones and amputations

•       Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries

•       Chemical and gas inhalation injuries

See our catastrophic injuries page for how these injuries are handled in claims.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

Oilfield sites usually involve several companies, including the operator, drilling and service contractors, subcontractors, trucking companies and equipment manufacturers. Depending on who employed you and what caused the accident, you may have:

•       A workers' compensation claim if your employer carries coverage, see workers' compensation

•       A negligence claim against your employer if it is a non-subscriber, see non-subscriber work injuries

•       A third-party claim against another company, such as an operator, contractor or manufacturer of defective equipment, see product liability

•       A wrongful death claim if a family member was killed, see wrongful death

Texas has special rules for claims by contractors' employees against property owners and for contractual indemnity in oil and gas work. Speak to an attorney early.

Safety Rules and Why They Matter

Employers and operators must follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and other safety rules. A violation of those rules, such as failing to train workers or failing to maintain equipment, can be strong evidence of negligence.

What Compensation May Be Available?

•       Medical expenses and future care

•       Lost wages and lost earning capacity

•       Pain and suffering and mental anguish

•       Physical impairment and disfigurement

•       Exemplary damages in cases of gross negligence

What to Do After an Oilfield Accident

•       Get medical care and report the injury to your employer in writing.

•       Do not sign a statement, release or settlement before speaking with a lawyer.

•       Write down what happened and who was present. Save photos, texts and work records.

•       Keep all medical bills and records.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oilfield Accidents in West Texas

Can I sue if I was injured in an oilfield accident?

Often yes. It depends on whether your employer has workers' comp, who else was on site, and what caused the accident. We review each case individually.

What if my employer says I am not covered?

Do not assume. Some oilfield employers are non-subscribers, and many workers are classified as independent contractors when they should be employees. A lawyer can review your status.

What if I am an independent contractor?

You may still have a claim against the operator or another company. Contract and indemnity agreements matter, so have them reviewed.

Who pays if there was an oilfield explosion?

Responsibility depends on the facts. Operators, contractors, equipment makers and employers can all be involved.

What is the deadline to file?

Generally two years for personal injury and wrongful death claims. Workers' comp notice and claim deadlines are much shorter. Do not wait.

Do you help families after a fatal oilfield accident?

Yes. See our wrongful death page. We can meet with your family at home.