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Houston Oilfield Accident Lawyer

Texas is home to some of the world’s richest oil deposits, powering our economy to great heights. However, mining fossil fuels is still a dangerous operation. Even with modern technology, tragic deaths and injuries continue to occur on the job site. There could be any number of causes of your oilfield accident, and a Houston oilfield accident lawyer with Loncar Lyon Jenkins can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. 

Field workers in the oil industry risk their lives to do their jobs and perform their jobs well. But unfortunately, errors still do occur. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our Houston oilfield accident lawyers will help you recover financial compensation that lets you get the medical care you need and start putting your life back together.

What is an Oilfield Accident?

An oilfield accident is a workplace incident occurring during oil and gas exploration, drilling, production, or maintenance activities. These accidents include well blowouts, explosions, equipment malfunctions, fires, toxic exposure, falls, and transportation incidents. They often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the hazardous nature of oilfield operations. Multiple parties may share liability, including operators, contractors, equipment manufacturers, and service companies.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Oilfield Accidents in Houston ?

Oilfield accidents in Houston  result from various hazardous conditions and activities inherent to oil and gas operations.

Equipment failures:

Cause many accidents when drilling machinery, pressure control systems, or safety devices malfunction. Poor maintenance and aging infrastructure increase these risks

Well blowouts:

Occur when pressure control systems fail, leading to uncontrolled releases of oil, gas, or drilling fluids. These often result in explosions, fires, and toxic exposure.

Falls from height:

Happen on drilling rigs, maintenance platforms, and other elevated work areas. Inadequate fall protection or unstable structures contribute to these incidents.

Transportation accidents:

Medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and future care costs. We work with medical experts to project long-term treatment needs and economists to calculate lost earning capacity.Occur during crew changes, equipment movement, or material delivery. Heavy vehicles and challenging site conditions increase collision risks.

Confined space incidents:

Happen during tank cleaning, pipeline maintenance, or other enclosed area work. Toxic gases and oxygen deficiency pose serious hazards.

Chemical exposure:

From drilling fluids, gases, and other hazardous substances can cause severe injuries or long-term health issues.

Fires and explosions:

Result from ignition of flammable materials, often during welding, drilling, or maintenance operations.

Understanding these common causes helps companies implement proper safety measures while highlighting the importance of proper training and equipment maintenance in oilfield operations.

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El Paso Car Accident Lawyer

Testimonials

Hear From Our Clients

Each year, Loncar Lyon Jenkins represents over 7,000 clients all over Texas and will travel to any city or town within the Lone Star state.

Leah Hicks
Leah Hicks
If you want an attorney that treats you like family, answers all your questions with ease and will fight for you, just ask for Justin Edwards! It was such a relief knowing he was on my side. He followed through with everything he promised and that is a rare attribute to find in a person these days. Just go ahead and give them a call!
Taam Dodd
Taam Dodd
The guidance and patience exhibited by Attorney LaRue and his team were paramount in the successful navigation of this event for my family and I. In a perfect world I won't have to ring his phone anytime soon, but should the Truck of Life dump on me again, I wouldn't hesitate to dial them up.
Ryan Sargent
Ryan Sargent
My attorney David was realistic, thoughtful and genuine as well. Overall I was grateful for their help navigating a stressful experience. I would absolutely recommend this law office if you have any personal injury concerns. I was taken care of and spoken to with respect each step of the way. I’m so grateful for everyone that helped me
Leah Hicks
Leah Hicks
If you want an attorney that treats you like family, answers all your questions with ease and will fight for you, just ask for Justin Edwards! It was such a relief knowing he was on my side. He followed through with everything he promised and that is a rare attribute to find in a person these days. Just go ahead and give them a call!

What Types of Injuries Are Most Commonly Sustained in Oilfield Accidents in Houston ?

The types of injuries most commonly sustained in oilfield accidents in Houston  include burns, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and spinal cord damage.

Other common types of injuries include:

Burn injuries:

Account for 25% of serious oilfield injuries. Include thermal burns from fires, explosions, and chemical burns. Texas Department of Insurance data shows 40% of burn victims require skin grafts, with average medical costs exceeding $350,000 for serious cases.

Traumatic Brain Injuries:

Represent 15% of oilfield injuries. Result from falling equipment, blowouts, and falls. Houston Medical Center reports 30% of oilfield TBI patients require lifetime care, with costs averaging $3.2 million.

Broken Bones and Crush Injuries:

Comprise 30% of accidents. Often occur from equipment malfunctions, falling objects, and caught-between incidents. OSHA data indicates 45% involve multiple fractures requiring surgical intervention.

Spinal Cord Damage:

Forms 10% of cases, with 25% resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Texas Workers’ Compensation data shows these injuries have the highest lifetime cost, averaging $4.8 million for complete paralysis.

Amputations:

Account for 8% of serious oilfield injuries. Result from machinery entanglement and crushing incidents. Studies show 70% affect upper extremities, with prosthetic costs averaging $60,000 initially plus replacements every 3-5 years.

Toxic Exposure Injuries:

Represent 12% of cases. Include respiratory damage, chemical burns, and long-term illness from hydrogen sulfide and other chemicals. Texas Department of Health reports 35% develop chronic conditions requiring ongoing treatment.

These severe injuries account for the oil industry having fatality rates seven times higher than other sectors. Workers’ compensation data shows average disability periods of 8 months for serious oilfield injuries.

What to Do After an Oilfield Accident or Explosion

Immediate actions after an oilfield accident are crucial for safety and protecting your legal rights.

  • Report the incident immediately to supervisors and ensure proper documentation. Get medical attention, even for seemingly minor injuries, as some conditions worsen over time.

 

  • Document the accident scene if safe to do so. Take photos of equipment, hazardous conditions, and any safety violations. Collect contact information from witnesses.

 

  • Follow company safety protocols and emergency procedures. If unsafe conditions persist, exercise your right to stop work.

 

  • Preserve evidence including torn clothing, damaged equipment, and any relevant documentation. Don’t allow evidence to be destroyed or altered.

 

  • File necessary workers’ compensation claims promptly. Keep copies of all paperwork and accident reports.

 

  • Avoid discussing the accident on social media or giving statements to insurance companies without legal counsel.

 

  • Contact an experienced oilfield accident attorney who understands industry regulations and liability issues. They can help protect your rights and preserve evidence.

These steps help establish liability and ensure proper documentation for workers’ compensation claims or legal action.

Who Are the Liable Parties in an Oilfield Accident in Houston?

Multiple parties may bear responsibility in Houston oilfield accidents:

Site Operators/Oil Companies:

Primary liability holders, responsible for site safety and regulatory compliance. Texas court data shows operators named in 75% of oilfield injury lawsuits, with average settlements of $1.2 million.

Contractors/Subcontractors:

Often liable for specific operations and employee supervision. Multi-employer worksite doctrine allows holding them responsible even for injuries to non-employees. Present in 60% of Houston oilfield accident cases.

Equipment Manufacturers:

Liable for defective machinery, tools, or safety equipment. Product liability claims constitute 30% of oilfield litigation, with average settlements of $850,000.

Engineering Firms:

Responsible for design flaws in platforms, rigs, or systems. Named in 20% of catastrophic accident cases, particularly those involving structural failures.

Safety Consultants:

Can be liable for negligent advice or inadequate safety protocols. Texas cases show successful claims when consultants fail to identify hazards or implement proper procedures.

Property Owners:

When different from operators, may face premises liability claims. Houston court records show property owners named in 25% of oilfield injury suits.

Identifying all potentially liable parties will allow you to pursue maximum compensation. Texas Workers’ Compensation data shows third-party liability claims average 3.5 times higher payouts than workers’ comp benefits alone.

Do I Need Legal Advice After an Oilfield Accident in Houston ?

Yes, legal representation is crucial after an oilfield accident due to complex liability issues and multiple potential defendants. An experienced Houston  oilfield accident attorney can help you file a workers’ compensation claim, identify liable parties, and ensure proper documentation of injuries and damages. They handle negotiations with insurance companies and protect your rights while you focus on recovery. Most oilfield accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency fees.

How Can an Oilfield Accident Lawyer in Houston Help Me with My Claim?

A Houston  oilfield accident lawyer provides legal support throughout the complex claims process.

Accident investigation:

Your attorney thoroughly investigates the accident, gathering evidence of safety violations, equipment failures, and regulatory breaches. They identify all liable parties and applicable insurance coverage.

Handling all communication with the insurance company:

They handle communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel, protecting your interests during negotiations. This includes managing workers’ compensation claims and third-party liability issues.

Assess damages:

Your lawyer documents all damages, working with medical experts to understand injury impacts and future care needs. They calculate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Trial representation:

They prepare cases for litigation while pursuing fair settlements. If needed, they present compelling arguments at trial supported by industry experts.

Most importantly, having legal representation allows you to focus on recovery while your attorney handles every aspect of your case.

What Should I Look for When Hiring an Oilfield Accident Lawyer in Houston ?

When selecting an oilfield accident lawyer in Houston , there are several key factors that can determine their ability to handle your case effectively.

Extensive experience:

Look for attorneys with extensive experience specifically in oilfield accidents, not just general personal injury law. They should demonstrate knowledge of oil and gas industry regulations, safety standards, and common accident causes.

Successful track record:

Verify their track record of successful settlements and verdicts in similar cases. Ask about specific examples during your consultation.

Excellent communication:

Consider their communication style and responsiveness during initial consultations. Your attorney should explain complex legal concepts clearly and keep you informed throughout your case.

Transparent fee structure:

Confirm their fee structure, typically contingency-based, and understand all potential costs. Most oilfield accident attorneys offer free consultations.

Taking time to evaluate these factors helps ensure you select an attorney capable of securing maximum compensation for your oilfield accident injuries.

What Should I Expect from Loncar Lyon Jenkins Attorneys During the Legal Process?

Working with Loncar Lyon Jenkins on your oilfield accident case provides dedicated legal support throughout the process.

Initial consultations:

Are thorough and free. Attorneys evaluate your case’s merit, explain legal options, and gather essential accident information while answering questions.

Investigation phase:

Involves collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing accident reports, and documenting safety violations. They identify all potentially liable parties.

Handling insurance companies:

Their attorneys handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel, protecting your interests during negotiations. They ensure all paperwork meets strict legal deadlines.

Medical documentation:

Is carefully managed. They work with healthcare providers to understand injuries and future care needs, calculating damages including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Trial preparation:

The firm prepares thoroughly for litigation while pursuing fair settlements. If trial becomes necessary, their experienced attorneys present compelling arguments supported by strong evidence.

Case updates:

Throughout the process, you receive regular case updates. Their team remains accessible to answer questions and address concerns.

At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our experienced advocates fight for maximum compensation while you concentrate on healing from your injuries.

How Do Loncar Lyon Jenkins Attorneys Determine Fault in Texas Oilfield Accidents?

At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our legal team employs a systematic approach to determining fault in oilfield accidents.

  • Our attorneys begin with thorough accident scene investigation, gathering physical evidence, photos, documentation, and witness statements.

 

  • Expert investigators examine evidence to establish accident causes and responsibility. They analyze equipment failures, safety violations, and regulatory breaches.

 

  • An attorney will review maintenance records, safety protocols, and employee training documentation to identify negligence or compliance issues.

 

  • Medical experts evaluate injury patterns to help establish causation between safety violations and resulting injuries. Their testimony links specific actions to injuries.

 

  • The legal team investigates potential third-party liability, identifying all responsible parties including operators, contractors, equipment manufacturers, and service companies.

 

  • Loncar Lyon Jenkins attorneys analyze industry regulations and safety standards to determine violations. This strengthens liability claims against responsible parties.

Our legal team’s experience allows for comprehensive fault investigation, maximizing potential compensation sources for oilfield accident victims.

How Much Compensation Can I Expect to Recover from an Oilfield Accident Claim in Houston ?

Compensation for oilfield accidents varies based on injury severity, liability factors, and available insurance coverage.

Medical expenses:

Include current and future healthcare costs, covering surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing care needs. These are documented through medical records and expert testimony.

Lost wages:

Compensate for missed work and diminished earning capacity, including salary, benefits, and career advancement opportunities impacted by injuries.

Pain and suffering damages:

Address physical discomfort and emotional trauma. While Texas doesn’t cap these damages in most cases, they’re calculated based on injury severity and life impact.

Property damage and out-of-pocket expenses:

Are also recoverable. Multiple insurance policies may apply when several parties share liability.

Workers’ compensation provides basic benefits, but third-party claims against contractors, equipment manufacturers, or other liable parties can significantly increase compensation.

Settlements typically range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars depending on case specifics. An experienced attorney helps ensure full compensation for all damages.

Recovery amounts reflect the dangerous nature of oilfield work and potentially catastrophic injuries. Consulting with an attorney helps determine your claim’s potential value.

How Do Loncar Lyon Jenkins Oilfield Accident Attorneys Determine the Value of Damages?

At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys employ a comprehensive approach to valuing oilfield accident damages.

Our legal team reviews all medical records and bills to calculate current and future healthcare costs. They consult medical experts to project long-term care needs and expenses.

Lost income calculations include missed work time, reduced earning capacity, and lost benefits. An attorney on our legal team will consider career trajectory and potential advancement opportunities impacted by injuries.

Pain and suffering damages are assessed based on injury severity, recovery time, and impact on daily life. The firm documents physical limitations, emotional distress, and lifestyle changes.

Property damage and out-of-pocket expenses are tracked through receipts and documentation. Future costs for medical equipment or therapy are projected with expert input.

We will analyze similar cases in Houston  courts to benchmark compensation ranges. We’ll consider all available insurance coverage and liability factors.

Our experienced attorneys ensure comprehensive documentation of both economic and non-economic damages to maximize compensation for their clients.

What Areas of Houston Do Loncar Lyon Jenkins Attorneys Serve?

Our attorneys serve the following areas in Houston:

  • Inner Loop (Inside 610)
  • Downtown
  • Midtown
  • Museum District
  • Medical Center
  • Rice Village
  • Heights
  • Montrose
  • River Oaks
  • Memorial
  • Bellaire
  • West University
  • Galleria
  • Spring Branch
  • Garden Oaks
  • Energy Corridor
  • Cypress
  • Katy
  • Clear Lake
  • Kingwood
  • Spring
  • The Woodlands
  • Garden Oaks
  • Spring Branch
  • The Woodlands
  • Sugar Land
  • Tomball
  • Humble
  • Pearland
  • League City
  • Friendswood
  • Webster
  • Baytown
  • Pasadena
  • La Porte
  • Deer Park
  • Katy
  • Sugar Land
  • Missouri City
  • Richmond
  •  River Oaks
  • Memorial Villages
  • Tanglewood
  • West University
  • Heights
  • Montrose
  • Third Ward
  • Fifth Ward
  • EaDo
  • Oak Forest
  • Kingwood
  • Sienna Plantation

How Can I Strengthen My Oilfield Accident Claim in Houston ?

  • Document everything immediately after the accident – take photos, gather witness information, and preserve evidence of safety violations and hazardous conditions.

 

  • Seek prompt medical care and follow all treatment plans. Keep records of appointments, medications, and expenses.

 

  • Report the accident properly through supervisors and safety personnel. Get copies of all incident reports.

 

  • File workers’ compensation claims within required deadlines. Keep copies of all submitted paperwork.

 

  • Avoid social media posts about your accident and don’t give statements to insurance companies without legal counsel.

 

  • Contact an experienced oilfield accident attorney quickly to protect your rights and preserve evidence.

 

  • Track all expenses including medical bills, lost wages, and out-of-pocket costs. Document how injuries affect your work and daily life.

 

  • Let your attorney handle all communication with insurance companies and investigators while you focus on recovery.

FAQ

In Texas, the statute of limitations for oilfield accident lawsuits is two years from the date of injury under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. For workers’ compensation claims, report injuries within 30 days and file claims within one year. Cases involving government entities require notice within six months under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 101.101. Missing these deadlines typically bars claims permanently.

Yes, most oilfield accident lawyers in Houston offer free initial consultations to evaluate cases and explain legal options. During these meetings, attorneys assess liability, review accident details, and explain their contingency fee structure where they only get paid if they win your case.

How much it costs to hire an oilfield accident attorney in Houston can depend on many factors, such as the complexity of the case and how much compensation is recovered. Typically, oilfield accident attorneys in Houston charge a contingency fee of 33% to 40%.

At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our legal team brings extensive experience with oilfield accident cases, making us a strong choice for representation. Our legal team thoroughly investigates accidents, identifies all liable parties, and builds strong cases using expert testimony. A Houston oilfield accident lawyer on our legal team can handle complex negotiations while advancing all litigation costs. Our trial experience often motivates insurance companies to offer fair settlements. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys work on contingency, meaning no upfront costs, and offer free consultations to evaluate claims. Their attorneys remain accessible throughout your case while you focus on recovery. Our reputation for aggressive advocacy and willingness to take cases to trial helps clients receive maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. With decades of experience serving Houston injury victims, we have the knowledge, determination, and resources to fight for your rights.

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Contact Us Today!

If you suffered an injury while working in the oilfields, an oilfield accident attorney from Loncar Lyon Jenkins can help you navigate the legal process. We will work hard to reach a settlement agreement with the negligent party and their insurance provider. If one cannot be reached, we will not hesitate to file a lawsuit seeking fair compensation for your losses. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how our legal team can help during this challenging time.

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