East Texas Oil Field Wrongful Death Claims

East Texas Oil Field Wrongful Death Lawyers

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When a tragic oilfield accident claims the life of a loved one in East Texas, families face overwhelming grief while navigating complex legal challenges. Shaw Cowart LLP provides compassionate legal representation for families seeking justice after fatal oilfield incidents throughout the East Texas region. Our attorneys understand the unique dangers of oil and gas operations and fight tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable for preventable workplace deaths.

What You Should Know About Fatal Oilfield Accidents in East Texas

Common Causes of Oilfield Fatalities

East Texas oil fields present numerous hazards that can lead to fatal accidents. Equipment malfunctions, improper safety protocols, and inadequate training contribute to the region's workplace fatality rates. Blowouts, fires, and explosions pose constant threats to workers operating heavy machinery and handling volatile substances.

Chemical exposure incidents frequently result in fatal injuries when proper protective equipment isn't provided or safety procedures aren't followed. Falls from drilling platforms, being struck by heavy equipment, and transportation accidents on remote job sites also account for significant numbers of oilfield deaths in East Texas.

The Impact on Families and Communities

Losing a family member in an oilfield accident devastates entire families and communities throughout East Texas. Beyond the emotional trauma, surviving family members often face immediate financial hardships when the primary breadwinner is suddenly gone. Medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost future earnings create additional stress during an already difficult time.

How Shaw Cowart LLP Fights for Grieving Families

Comprehensive Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Our oilfield fatal accident lawyer in East Texas team conducts thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding each fatal incident. We work with industry safety professionals to examine equipment, review maintenance records, and analyze safety protocols that should have prevented the tragedy.

Witness interviews, accident reconstruction, and detailed documentation of safety violations help build strong cases against negligent employers and equipment manufacturers. Our attorneys understand the technical aspects of oil and gas operations, enabling us to identify all parties who may bear responsibility for the fatal accident.

Pursuing Maximum Compensation for Survivors

Shaw Cowart LLP aggressively pursues compensation for all damages resulting from oilfield fatalities. Economic damages include lost wages, benefits, and the deceased worker's future earning capacity. We also seek compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills incurred before death, and the loss of household services the deceased would have provided.

Non-economic damages address the profound emotional impact on surviving family members, including loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support. Our attorneys work with economists and life care planners to accurately calculate the full extent of losses suffered by surviving spouses, children, and dependent family members.

Types of Fatal Oilfield Accidents We Handle

Equipment-Related Fatalities

Defective or poorly maintained equipment causes numerous fatal accidents in East Texas oil fields. Blowout preventers, drilling equipment, and safety systems must function properly to protect workers from catastrophic incidents. When equipment failures lead to explosions, fires, or toxic gas releases, multiple fatalities often result.

Our attorneys investigate equipment maintenance records, manufacturer specifications, and compliance with industry safety standards. We hold equipment manufacturers, maintenance contractors, and employers accountable when their negligence contributes to fatal accidents.

Transportation and Vehicle Accidents

The remote locations of many East Texas oil field operations require workers to travel long distances on dangerous rural roads. Fatigue from long shifts, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and poor road conditions contribute to fatal transportation accidents involving oilfield workers.

Company vehicles, service trucks, and equipment transport vehicles involved in fatal accidents undergo thorough investigation by our legal team. We examine driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance records, and company policies regarding work schedules and driver safety.

Chemical Exposure and Toxic Incidents

Exposure to hydrogen sulfide, benzene, and other toxic chemicals used in oil and gas operations can cause fatal poisoning or long-term health conditions leading to death. Inadequate ventilation, missing protective equipment, and improper handling procedures put workers at deadly risk.

Shaw Cowart LLP investigates chemical exposure incidents to determine whether proper safety protocols were followed and adequate protective equipment was provided. We hold employers accountable for failing to protect workers from known chemical hazards.

Navigating Complex Legal Challenges

Workers' Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims

Texas workers' compensation laws may limit claims against direct employers, but third-party liability claims often provide additional avenues for recovery. Equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, and property owners may bear responsibility for fatal accidents through their negligent actions or products.

Our attorneys carefully analyze each case to identify all potential defendants and maximize recovery for surviving family members. We pursue workers' compensation benefits while simultaneously investigating third-party claims that may provide additional compensation.

Federal and State Safety Regulations

Oil and gas operations in East Texas must comply with numerous federal and state safety regulations designed to protect workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Railroad Commission of Texas establish safety standards that employers must follow to prevent fatal accidents.

Shaw Cowart LLP thoroughly investigates whether safety violations contributed to fatal oilfield accidents. We use regulatory violations as evidence of negligence and work to ensure that responsible parties are held accountable for failing to maintain safe working conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should families do immediately after a fatal oilfield accident?
  Contact an experienced wrongful death attorney immediately to protect your legal rights. Avoid signing any documents from employers or insurance companies without legal review, and preserve any evidence related to the accident.
• How long do families have to file a wrongful death claim in Texas?
  Texas law generally provides a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. However, certain circumstances may affect this timeline, making it crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
• Who can file a wrongful death claim for an oilfield worker?
  In Texas, surviving spouses, children, and parents may file wrongful death claims. If none of these family members exist, the deceased worker's estate representative may pursue the claim.
• What compensation is available for oilfield wrongful death cases?
  Families may recover damages for lost earnings, funeral expenses, medical bills, loss of companionship, and mental anguish. The specific compensation depends on the circumstances of each case and the impact on surviving family members.
• Can families still pursue claims if the worker was partially at fault?
  Texas follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning families may still recover damages even if the deceased worker was partially responsible for the accident, as long as their fault was less than 51%.

Contact Shaw Cowart LLP Today

Don't let insurance companies minimize your family's loss or delay the justice you deserve. Our East Texas oil field wrongful death lawyers have the experience and resources necessary to take on large corporations and fight for maximum compensation. We understand the unique challenges facing oilfield families and provide the aggressive representation needed to secure your family's financial future.

Shaw Cowart LLP serves families throughout East Texas, including Tyler, Longview, Marshall, and surrounding communities. We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for your family.

Get the Justice Your Family Deserves

The loss of a loved one in an oilfield accident should never be ignored or forgotten. Contact us today for a free legal consultation to discuss your case with our experienced wrongful death attorneys. Call 512-842-7085 or visit our contact page to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward securing justice for your family.

Contact our personal injury attorneys at 512-842-7085 or use the form on this page to schedule a complimentary consultation. We serve clients in the Tyler, Longview and Kilgore area.