Toxic Chemical Exposure in Oilfields Attorney in Austin, TX

Workers in Texas oilfields face significant health risks from exposure to dangerous chemicals used in drilling, fracking, and production operations. If you or a loved one has suffered illness or injury due to toxic chemical exposure in oilfield work, Shaw Cowart Attorneys at Law LLP can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Our Austin personal injury attorneys understand the complex nature of oilfield toxic exposure cases and have successfully resolved numerous workplace injury claims, including an oilfield accident case where the plaintiff received injuries when a hose broke and struck him in the face and neck.

How Oilfield Workers Are Exposed to Toxic Chemicals

Oilfield operations involve numerous hazardous substances that can cause serious health problems through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Common sources of toxic chemical exposure in oilfields include:

Drilling Operations

• Drilling muds and fluids containing heavy metals and chemical additives
• Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas released during drilling
• Benzene and other volatile organic compounds from crude oil
• Silica dust from fracking sand that can cause lung disease

Production and Processing

• Chemical solvents used in equipment cleaning and maintenance
• Corrosion inhibitors and biocides in production systems
• Petroleum distillates and refined products
• Radioactive materials naturally occurring in oil and gas formations

Shaw Cowart Attorneys at Law LLP has handled cases involving various types of oilfield injuries and understands how exposure to these toxic substances can impact workers' health and livelihoods.

Common Health Effects of Oilfield Chemical Exposure

Exposure to toxic chemicals in oilfield operations can lead to both immediate and long-term health problems. Workers may experience:

• Respiratory disorders including asthma, lung scarring, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Neurological damage from benzene and other neurotoxic substances
• Skin conditions such as chemical burns, dermatitis, and cancer
• Cancer including leukemia, lung cancer, and other malignancies
• Liver and kidney damage from prolonged chemical exposure
• Reproductive health issues affecting both men and women

Our Austin attorneys have successfully represented clients who suffered serious injuries from workplace accidents and toxic exposures, securing substantial settlements and verdicts for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Legal Options for Oilfield Toxic Exposure Claims in Austin

Workers injured by toxic chemical exposure in oilfields may have several legal avenues for seeking compensation:

Workers' Compensation Claims

Most oilfield workers in Texas are covered by workers' compensation insurance, which provides benefits for work-related injuries and illnesses. However, these benefits may not fully compensate for the long-term effects of toxic exposure.

Third-Party Liability Claims

When toxic exposure results from defective equipment, negligent contractors, or unsafe chemical products, injured workers may file personal injury lawsuits against responsible third parties beyond their employers.

Product Liability Cases

Manufacturers of toxic chemicals, safety equipment, or drilling products may be held liable if their products cause harm due to design defects, manufacturing flaws, or inadequate warnings.

Shaw Cowart Attorneys at Law LLP recently obtained a $400,000 judgment in a personal injury case and has secured numerous confidential settlements for workplace injury victims throughout Texas.

Why Choose Shaw Cowart Attorneys at Law LLP for Your Austin Toxic Exposure Case

Proven Results in Complex Injury Cases

Our firm has achieved significant victories in challenging personal injury cases, including a recent $2,000,000 verdict for an underinsured motorist claim in Tarrant County and multiple settlements exceeding $200,000 for injured workers. We recently obtained a verdict in Travis County Texas in excess of $200,000 for commission-paid salesmen, demonstrating our ability to secure substantial compensation in Austin courts.

Experience with Workplace Injury Claims

Shaw Cowart Attorneys at Law LLP has successfully resolved workplace accident claims, including forklift injuries and commercial accidents. We understand the complexities of occupational health cases and work diligently to build strong claims for our clients.

Knowledge of Austin Legal System

Our attorneys are familiar with the Travis County District Courts located at 1700 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701, including the 345th District Court where we have previously handled cases. This local knowledge helps us navigate the legal system effectively for our clients.

Understanding Texas Law and Oilfield Toxic Exposure Claims

Texas law provides various protections for workers injured by toxic chemical exposure, but navigating these legal frameworks requires experienced legal representation. Key considerations include:

• Statute of limitations for filing personal injury and workers' compensation claims
• Burden of proof requirements for establishing causation between exposure and illness
• Comparative negligence rules that may affect compensation amounts
• Employer immunity provisions and exceptions under Texas workers' compensation law

Frequently Asked Questions About Oilfield Toxic Exposure Claims

What should I do immediately after discovering toxic exposure symptoms?

Seek medical attention immediately and document your symptoms. Report the exposure to your employer and obtain copies of all medical records. For a free consultation, contact us online, or give us a call at 512-842-7085 today! to discuss your legal options.

How long do I have to file a toxic exposure claim in Texas?

Texas generally allows two years from the date of discovery for personal injury claims, but workers' compensation claims have different deadlines. Early legal consultation is crucial to protect your rights.

Can I sue my employer for toxic chemical exposure?

Texas workers' compensation law generally provides employer immunity, but exceptions exist for intentional conduct or when third parties are involved. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether additional legal options are available.

What compensation is available for oilfield toxic exposure injuries?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, disability benefits, pain and suffering, and future medical care costs. The amount depends on the severity of injuries and specific circumstances of your case.

How do I prove my illness was caused by oilfield chemical exposure?

Establishing causation requires medical evidence, exposure documentation, and often testimony. Our attorneys work with medical professionals and industrial hygienists to build strong cases for our clients.

Get the Legal Help You Need for Your Toxic Exposure Case

If you've suffered health problems due to toxic chemical exposure in oilfield operations, don't wait to seek legal representation. Shaw Cowart Attorneys at Law LLP offers free consultations to evaluate your case and explain your legal options. Our Austin personal injury attorneys have the experience and resources necessary to take on complex toxic exposure cases against large corporations and insurance companies.

For a free consultation, contact us online, or give us a call at 512-842-7085 today! You Pay Nothing Unless We Win. Get Your Case Reviewed and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve for your toxic chemical exposure injuries.