San Antonio Oilfield Accident Attorneys

Seeking Justice for Injured Oilfield Workers in Bexar County

Oil and gas production is a crucial part of the Texas economy. Unfortunately, this booming industry also comes with dangerous risks. Oilfield workers are exposed to hazardous conditions on a daily basis, making them more susceptible to workplace accidents and injuries. If you or a loved one was injured in an oilfield accident in San Antonio, you deserve justice and maximum compensation to support you during your recovery. Fortunately, our skilled oilfield accident attorneys have decades of experience protecting the rights of injured oilfield workers. 

At The Packard Law Firm, we know how frustrating it can be to navigate the complexities of the claims process, especially while recovering from a painful injury. That’s why our firm is committed to holding negligent parties accountable by guiding your legal steps with compassion and care. Since 2000, our lawyers have helped thousands of San Antonians like you seek compensation after serious accidents. With millions of dollars recovered for our clients in Bexar County and a success rate of over 95%, you can trust our attorneys to aggressively pursue justice on your behalf, freeing you to focus on healing. 

If you were harmed in an oilfield accident in San Antonio, don’t wait to seek justice. Contact us online to discuss your case with our compassionate advocates. 

What Causes Oilfield Accidents?

From operating heavy machinery to handling hazardous materials, oilfield workers face numerous hazards every day. Unfortunately, these dangers can lead to serious accidents and injuries on oil rigs. Common causes of oilfield accidents include:

• Equipment failure
• Slippery surfaces and work at heights 
• Negligence by employers or coworkers 
• Improper training or lack of safety protocols 
• Exposure to toxic substances and chemicals 

Types of Oilfield Accidents

Oilfield accidents can range from minor incidents to catastrophic events that result in severe injuries or fatalities. Some common types of oilfield accidents include: 

• Explosions and fires due to equipment malfunctions, gas leaks, or human error
• Falls from elevated surfaces, such as drilling rigs, scaffolding, or ladders
• Vehicle accidents involving trucks, cranes, forklifts, or other heavy machinery
• Struck-by or caught in-between accidents caused by moving machinery or falling objects

Common Injuries in Oilfield Accidents

Accidents on San Antonio oil rigs can lead to devastating harm and even fatalities for workers. Some of the most common oilfield injuries include: 

• Burn injuries: Oilfield workers may suffer severe burns due to fires or explosions caused by flammable gases or materials on oil rigs. These injuries commonly occur during drilling processes or equipment malfunctions.
• Amputations: Amputations may occur when workers get caught in or between heavy machinery or equipment. Limb loss may occur due to inadequate safety guards or lack of attention to machine safety protocols.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): TBIs frequently result from struck-by objects or vehicle collisions on oil rigs, especially when helmets and other safety gear aren’t utilized.   
• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs): Workers can suffer SCIs after falling from tall heights or being crushed by machinery. These incidents often occur when workers lack suitable fall protection equipment. 
• Hearing loss: Consistent exposure to loud machinery and equipment, such as drills or pumps, can lead to permanent hearing loss for oilfield workers. 
• Respiratory issues: Respiratory problems can result from prolonged exposure to toxic fumes or dust during drilling. Insufficient ventilation systems or personal protective equipment can put workers at a higher risk of exposure.
• Electrocution: Electrocution hazards can result from the improper handling of electrical equipment or cables, particularly in wet conditions. Inadequate electrical safety training or equipment inspections can also elevate the risk of electrocution.

Should I File a Personal Injury Claim or a Workers’ Comp Claim After an Oilfield Injury?

If you were injured on an oil rig in San Antonio, you may be wondering whether to file a personal injury claim or a workers’ compensation claim. While both types of claims provide financial relief to injured workers, choosing the best legal avenue for your specific circumstances is paramount to recovering sufficient compensation for all your injuries. 

Some key differences to consider include:

Personal Injury Claims

Personal injury claims are third-party lawsuits that require proof of fault or negligence by another party. While personal injury claims typically result in a higher amount of compensation, they also tend to be longer and more complex compared to workers’ compensation cases. 

Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers’ compensation is designed to provide limited benefits for medical expenses and lost wages after a work-related injury. Unlike personal injury lawsuits, workers’ compensation cases don’t require workers to prove fault or negligence to recover benefits. 

While workers’ comp cases generally result in a quicker resolution and compensation compared to personal injury claims, receiving workers’ comp requires you to waive your rights to file a personal injury claim against your employer, making it crucial to seek sound counsel from a qualified attorney before pursuing a claim.

What Steps Are Involved in an Oilfield Accident Lawsuit?

If you decide to pursue justice in an oilfield accident claim, knowing what lies ahead can help you prepare and make informed decisions throughout your case. An oilfield accident lawsuit generally involves the following steps: 

1. Case investigation: Your attorney can investigate the accident and collect evidence to support your claim, such as medical records, police reports, and eyewitness testimonies. 
2. Filing a claim: After building a strong case, your lawyer can help you file your claim correctly and within the statute of limitations. 
3. Discovery process: During this stage, both parties will exchange information about the case, such as witness statements and expert testimonies.
4. Settlement negotiations: In many cases, insurance companies may offer a settlement to avoid going to trial. Your lawyer can pursue a fair settlement by negotiating effectively on your behalf.
5. Trial: If a settlement can’t be reached, your case will proceed to trial, where both sides will present evidence and arguments to the judge and jury.
6. Verdict: If your case proceeds to litigation, the judge or jury will review the evidence and make a decision on whether the defendant is liable for your injuries and how much compensation you should receive.

What Damages Are Recoverable in a Texas Oilfield Accident Claim? 

Depending on the specifics of the case, various types of compensation may be available in an oilfield accident lawsuit. Common recoverable damages include economic damages for direct financial losses (such as medical expenses, ongoing and future treatment costs, lost wages, and loss of earning capacity) and non-economic damages for indirect subjective losses (such as pain and suffering, scarring and disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium). In rare cases involving extreme negligence, the court may also award punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter recurrent behavior. 

What Should I Look For in an Oilfield Accident Lawyer?

After a wrongful injury, partnering with the right attorney can mean the difference between recovering the compensation you deserve and walking away empty-handed. Here are some key qualities to look for in an oilfield accident lawyer: 

• Experience: Hiring an attorney with a background in oilfield accident claims and similar cases can help you maximize your chance of obtaining a favorable outcome. 
• Results: Researching the lawyer’s specific case results in oilfield accident claims should be a key factor when seeking legal representation.
• Reputation: Consider the lawyer’s reputation by reviewing testimonials from former clients, community involvement, and any professional awards or accolades. 

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Oilfield Accident Claims?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for oilfield accident claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, this timeline may vary depending on the specifics of your case. Having an oilfield accident lawyer on your side is a must to file your claim within the appropriate deadline and maintain eligibility for damages. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid in an Oilfield Accident Case

While no one plans on being involved in an accident, knowing your rights after an oilfield injury is vital to recovering compensation for hospital bills, medical care, lost earnings, and other losses. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid while seeking damages in an oilfield accident lawsuit:

• Not seeking medical treatment: Even if you don't feel injured, seeking medical care after an oilfield accident is critical to rule out serious harm, such as internal bleeding or organ damage, and establish formal documentation of your injuries.
• Not reporting the incident immediately: Failure to file your claim within the statute of limitations can result in the loss of eligibility for compensation. The sooner you can find an attorney to help you file your claim, the better. 
• Failing to gather evidence: If possible, take photos and videos of the accident scene and collect contact information from witnesses to support your case and prove liability.
• Talking to insurance adjusters without legal counsel: Insurance companies often pressure plaintiffs to settle for less than they deserve. It’s important to secure experienced legal representation before speaking to insurance adjusters.

I Was Injured in a Pipeline Explosion Near the Lackland Air Force Base. What Are My Legal Options?

If you were injured in an oilfield accident near the Lackland Air Force Base, it’s important to prioritize your health by seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Next, consulting with a qualified oilfield accident lawyer is critical to building a strong case and recovering a fair settlement. Your attorney can help you gather evidence, identify responsible parties, establish liability in your claim, and negotiate effectively with insurers to pursue justice. 

I Suffered a Chemical Exposure Injury in an Oilfield Accident Near the Pearl Brewery. Who Is Responsible?

If you suffered a chemical exposure injury near the Pearl Brewery, obtaining legal representation is a must to identify at-fault parties, prove negligence, and maximize available compensation in your claim. Depending on your case, multiple parties may be liable for a chemical exposure injury, such as property owners who failed to maintain safe premises, employers who failed to provide adequate training or safety protocols, manufacturers who produced defective machinery or equipment, and contractors or subcontractors who failed to oversee safe working conditions on the oil rig.

Can I Sue if I Was Injured on a Fracking Site in the Eagle Ford Shale?

Yes, it’s possible to sue if you suffered an oilfield injury in the Eagle Ford Shale. Partnering with a knowledgeable attorney who understands the legal intricacies of these cases is critical to recovering full compensation. At The Packard Law Firm, we have a vast network of professional contacts and resources to build you a robust case while protecting your rights against insurance companies and other involved parties.   

Why Choose The Packard Law Firm?

After an oilfield injury, the last thing you need is more stress. That’s where The Packard Law Firm comes in. When you partner with our experienced firm, you’ll benefit from:

• Extensive experience: We have decades of experience representing clients in a wide range of personal injury claims, giving you peace of mind that your case is in trusted hands. 
• Trial readiness: Don’t risk settling for less than you deserve after a wrongful injury. As accomplished litigators, our attorneys never hesitate to take cases to trial if necessary to obtain a just settlement.
• Sharp negotiation skills: Our lawyers are skilled negotiators who are familiar with common tactics and strategies employed by insurers. We can vigorously safeguard your rights while advocating for the maximum compensation you're entitled to.
• High success rate: Our firm is committed to pursuing the best possible outcome in every case we take on. With an impressive success rate of over 95%, we believe our winning track record of results speaks for itself. 
• Reputation for achieving exceptional verdicts: Our lawyers have recovered millions of dollars in settlements for our clients, empowering injured Texans to take back their lives after serious injuries. 

If you suffered an oilfield injury in San Antonio, our lawyers can help you seek justice. Call (210) 972-8918 to schedule a free consultation. Pay nothing until we win.