It’s no secret that oilfield work is dangerous. Workers in this industry face numerous hazards daily, from heavy machinery and toxic chemicals to slippery surfaces. Unfortunately, accidents are all too common, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an oilfield accident, taking legal action is essential. Doing so is the best way to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other losses.
Seek Treatment for Your Injuries
The first step after an oilfield accident is to seek medical attention. Your health is the top priority. Next, report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. This creates an official record of the incident. Additionally, document everything related to the accident—take photos, gather witness statements, and keep detailed records of your injuries and medical treatments. This evidence will be crucial for your lawsuit.
What Are Your Rights after an Oilfield Accident?
In Texas, oilfield workers may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they sustain injuries on the job. However, these benefits are often limited and may not cover all your losses. That’s where filing a personal injury lawsuit can be a more viable option for full compensation.
Liable parties can include contractors, equipment manufacturers, your employer, and more. It’s also important to note that the statute of limitations for filing an oilfield accident lawsuit in Texas is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation.
Building Your Oilfield Accident Claim
Building a strong case is essential when filing an oilfield accident lawsuit. This involves gathering evidence to establish liability and the extent of damages suffered. Evidence may include:
- Accident reports
- Medical records
- Photos of the accident scene
- Expert testimony
Witness statements from coworkers, supervisors, or bystanders can provide valuable insights into the circumstances surrounding the accident. It’s important to act quickly, as evidence can deteriorate or become unavailable over time.
Hire an Experienced Oilfield Accident Attorney
Oilfield accident lawyers have specific knowledge and experience that general practitioners might lack.
When choosing a lawyer, check reviews, ask for recommendations, and meet with a few lawyers to find the best fit for your needs.
Review Their Qualifications and Experience
During the legal process, your attorney will handle all communications with insurance companies, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if necessary. They will also ensure that all deadlines and legal requirements are met, protecting your rights every step of the way.
Look for a lawyer who has experience handling oilfield accident cases. They should be familiar with the specific dangers of oilfield work and the laws that apply to these types of accidents.
Ask About Their Communication Style
It’s important to choose a lawyer who you feel comfortable communicating with. They should keep you informed throughout the legal process and answer your questions promptly.By following these steps and finding the right lawyer, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome in your oilfield accident lawsuit.
Work with Your Attorney to Calculate Your Oilfield Accident Damages
In an oilfield accident lawsuit, you may be entitled to various types of damages:
- Economic damages cover tangible losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and future earning potential.
- Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Your attorney will carefully evaluate all aspects of your case to calculate the appropriate amount of damages to seek. This may involve consulting with medical experts, vocational experts, and economists to ensure that all losses are accurately accounted for.
Seek a Settlement or Go to Trial
Once your case has been thoroughly prepared, your attorney will negotiate on your behalf with the liable parties to recover a settlement. This process involves presenting the evidence and damages calculations to the opposing party and attempting to reach a fair agreement.
Many cases settle before going to trial. But if a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to court. During this stage, your attorney will present your case before a judge and jury, using evidence and expert testimony to demonstrate liability and justify the damages sought.
Expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and industry experts, may be called to testify and provide crucial insights into the case. Your attorney will guide you through every step of the trial process, ensuring that your rights are protected, and your case is presented effectively.
Call Kemmy Law Firm ASAP after an Oilfield Accident
Filing an oilfield accident lawsuit is a complex and often challenging process, but it may be your best option to seek justice and fair compensation for your injuries. You don’t have to do it alone when you work with an experienced oilfield accident lawyer at Kemmy Law Firm.
We can investigate your accident, answer your questions, and work to hold the liable parties accountable for the harm they caused.
Call (830) 264-6297 today or contact us to schedule a free initial consultation.
Kemmy Law Firm serves clients across Texas and New Mexico:
Oilfield Injury Lawyers in Odessa, Texas
101 N Jackson Ave
Odessa, Texas 79761
Oilfield Injury Lawyers in Hobbs, New Mexico
1601 N. Turner, Suite 417
Hobbs, NM 88240
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