Oilfield Injuries in Texas: Your Legal Rights After an Accident
Out in the Texas oilfields, the work never really stops. Whether it’s blazing hot or pitch black at 2 a.m., crews are out there, putting in the hours around heavy machinery, slick surfaces, and some seriously dangerous conditions. It’s tough, physical work, and accidents happen more often than most people think.
If you’ve been hurt on the job, you’re probably dealing with more than just the injury. The stress, the paperwork, the bills—it all hits at once. That’s why it’s so important to know what your rights are and what steps you can take. And honestly? Talking to an oilfield injury lawyer can make a huge difference in figuring out your next move.
Common Causes of Oilfield Injuries
Let’s face it: working in the oilfields isn’t just physically tough, it’s risky. Even with safety gear and training, accidents still happen. And more often than not, they’re the result of conditions that could’ve been handled better.
Equipment Malfunctions
Heavy machinery is a staple on any oilfield site. But when something breaks down or isn’t maintained properly, it can lead to serious injuries. We’re talking about crushing incidents, unexpected blowouts, or dangerous system failures that no one sees coming.
Fires and Explosions
With so many flammable substances in use, oilfields are inherently prone to fires and explosions. All it takes is a gas leak or a spark to trigger a dangerous chain reaction, often with life-altering results.
Falls from Heights
Working on platforms, rigs, and scaffolding is part of the job. But when fall protection is missing or safety procedures aren’t followed, the risk of falling increases dramatically—and so does the potential for severe injury.
Toxic Exposure
Chemical exposure might not be visible right away, but over time, it can take a real toll, from respiratory issues and skin burns to even long-term health complications. Poor ventilation or lack of protective equipment makes it worse.
Exhaustion and Long Shifts
Long shifts, minimal rest, and a fast-paced environment wear people down. Exhaustion makes it harder to stay alert, which increases the chance of mistakes, especially when working with dangerous tools or materials.
The truth is, many of these accidents could’ve been prevented with the right precautions. When corners are cut or safety is overlooked, workers are the ones who suffer. And when that happens, legal action might be the only way to hold the right people accountable.
Your Legal Rights After an Oilfield Injury
Injuries at work are hard, especially in dangerous places like Texas oilfields. These injuries go beyond physical pain; suddenly, you’re facing medical bills, time off work, and a lot of uncertainty about what comes next. To make things even more complicated, not every Texas employer carries workers’ compensation insurance. If yours does, you might be eligible for help with your medical costs and a portion of your lost income. But if they’ve opted out—a surprisingly common situation in Texas—you could have the option to file a personal injury lawsuit instead.
Suing for your injuries can open up possibilities beyond basic coverage. It could mean getting compensation for long-term medical care, lost future earnings, and the personal toll the injury has taken on your life. And it’s not always just your employer who might be responsible. In a lot of oilfield cases, a third party—like a contractor, equipment supplier, or someone else working on-site—may have played a role in what happened. If so, you might have the right to bring a separate claim against them.
If your family has lost someone in a deadly oilfield accident, Texas law permits certain family members to sue for wrongful death. This won’t undo the tragedy, but it can help your family stay stable and hold responsible parties accountable.
If you’re scared to speak out because you might lose your job, remember this: Texas law shields you from payback. Your boss can’t punish you for reporting an injury or asking for the money you deserve.
Dealing with all this by yourself is tough, but you don’t need to face it alone. A lawyer who knows about oilfield injury cases can walk you through your choices, stand up for your rights, and ensure you’re not left to handle the fallout by yourself.
Why You Need an Oilfield Injury Lawyer From S. McCorquodale P.C.
After an oilfield accident, things can get complicated fast. You’re trying to heal, deal with lost income, and figure out where to turn, all while facing pressure from employers or insurance companies that might not prioritize your interests. That’s when having a lawyer who understands what you’re up against can make a real difference.
At S. McCorquodale P.C., we’ve spent years helping injured oilfield workers across Texas get the support and compensation they deserve. We know how these cases work: how employers skimp on safety, how third-party contractors might be liable, and how insurance companies often aim to reduce claims.
When you come to us, we don’t hand you a one-size-fits-all answer. We listen, dig into the facts, and build a case that reflects the full impact of your injury, not just what’s on paper. Whether you’re facing a non-subscriber employer, a third-party claim, or just don’t know where to start, we’re here to help you through the process.
If you’re not sure about your next move, let’s chat. Get in touch with S. McCorquodale P.C. to set up a free consultation—no strings attached, just honest answers and support you can rely on.