Texas Oilfield & Refinery Accident Lawyers

Texas Oilfield & Refinery Accident Lawyer

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When catastrophic accidents strike Texas's oil and gas industry, workers and their families face devastating injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertain futures. Shaw Cowart LLP provides aggressive legal representation for oilfield and refinery workers throughout Texas who have suffered serious injuries or lost loved ones due to workplace negligence, equipment failures, or safety violations.

Our experienced Texas oil and gas injury attorneys understand the unique dangers present in the state's three major energy hubs: The Permian Basin, The East Texas Oil Field, and Spindletop. We fight tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for catastrophic injuries while holding negligent employers, contractors, and equipment manufacturers accountable for their actions.

Understanding Texas's High-Risk Energy Regions

The Permian Basin: America's Most Active Oil Field

The Permian Basin spans across West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, producing millions of barrels of oil daily. This region presents unique hazards including:

• High-pressure drilling operations leading to blowouts and explosions
• Hydrogen sulfide exposure causing respiratory failure and death
• Heavy machinery accidents involving drilling rigs and fracturing equipment
• Transportation incidents on congested rural roads serving multiple well sites

Our Permian Basin injury lawyers have handled numerous cases involving drilling rig explosions, chemical burns from fracking fluid exposure, and fatal accidents caused by inadequate safety protocols in this rapidly expanding region.

The East Texas Oil Field: Legacy Operations with Modern Dangers

Spanning 43 counties across East Texas, this historic oil field continues to produce significant quantities of crude oil. Workers in this region face risks from:

• Aging infrastructure leading to equipment failures and structural collapses
• Saltwater disposal well incidents causing environmental contamination and worker exposure
• Pipeline ruptures resulting in fires, explosions, and toxic chemical releases
• Refinery accidents at major processing facilities throughout the region

Spindletop: Refinery Complex Catastrophes

The Spindletop area near Beaumont houses some of Texas's largest refineries and petrochemical plants. Common accidents in this region include:

• Process unit explosions causing severe burns and traumatic injuries
• Toxic chemical exposures leading to respiratory damage and cancer
• Confined space accidents resulting in asphyxiation and crush injuries
• Maintenance-related incidents during turnarounds and routine repairs

Catastrophic Injuries in Texas Oil and Gas Operations

Burn Injuries and Chemical Exposure

Oil and gas workers frequently suffer severe burn injuries from:

• Flash fires during well completions
• Chemical burns from drilling fluids and completion chemicals
• Thermal burns from steam releases and hot surfaces
• Electrical burns from high-voltage equipment

Our Texas refinery accident lawyers have secured substantial settlements for workers suffering from third-degree burns requiring multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries and Spinal Cord Damage

High-impact accidents common in oilfield operations often result in:

• Traumatic brain injuries from falling objects or equipment strikes
• Spinal cord injuries causing partial or complete paralysis
• Crush injuries from heavy machinery and pipe handling equipment
• Amputations from caught-in accidents involving rotating equipment

Respiratory Injuries and Occupational Diseases

Long-term exposure to toxic substances in oil and gas operations can cause:

• Silicosis from fracking sand exposure
• Chemical pneumonia from hydrocarbon vapors
• Cancer from benzene and other carcinogenic substances
• Acute respiratory distress from hydrogen sulfide exposure

Critical Legal Questions After a Texas Oilfield Accident

Was Proper Safety Training Provided?

Texas employers must provide comprehensive safety training covering:

• Hazard recognition and communication
• Personal protective equipment usage
• Emergency response procedures
• Equipment operation and maintenance protocols

Failure to provide adequate training can establish liability for resulting injuries.

Were Safety Regulations Followed?

Multiple agencies regulate Texas oil and gas operations:

• OSHA standards for general workplace safety
• Railroad Commission of Texas regulations for drilling and production
• EPA requirements for environmental protection
• DOT rules for transportation of hazardous materials

Violations of these regulations can provide strong evidence of negligence in injury claims.

Was Equipment Properly Maintained?

Equipment failures cause many oilfield accidents. Critical maintenance issues include:

• Inadequate inspection schedules for pressure vessels
• Failure to replace worn safety systems
• Improper installation of new equipment
• Lack of preventive maintenance on critical components

Were Third-Party Contractors Properly Supervised?

Many oilfield accidents involve multiple companies working on the same site. Questions arise regarding:

• Coordination of safety protocols between companies
• Supervision of subcontractor work activities
• Communication of site-specific hazards
• Enforcement of safety standards across all contractors

Why Choose Shaw Cowart LLP for Your Texas Oilfield Injury Case

Proven Track Record in Complex Industrial Accidents

Our attorneys have successfully handled catastrophic injury cases throughout Texas, securing millions in compensation for injured workers and grieving families. We understand the technical aspects of oil and gas operations and work with industry professionals to build compelling cases.

Resources to Take on Major Corporations

Oilfield accident cases often involve large energy companies with substantial legal resources. Shaw Cowart LLP has the financial resources and legal experience necessary to conduct thorough investigations, retain qualified witnesses, and pursue cases through trial when necessary.

No Fees Unless We Win

We handle oilfield injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we secure compensation for your injuries. This allows injured workers to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal costs.

Protecting Your Rights After an Oilfield Accident

Immediate Steps to Take

If you've been injured in a Texas oilfield or refinery accident:

• Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries
• Report the accident to your supervisor following company procedures
• Document the scene if safely possible, including photos and witness information
• Preserve evidence including work clothes, safety equipment, and medical records
• Contact an experienced oilfield accident attorney before speaking with insurance representatives

Understanding Workers' Compensation Limitations

While Texas workers' compensation may provide some benefits, it often doesn't fully compensate for catastrophic injuries. Our oilfield wrongful death attorneys in Texas can help identify additional claims against:

• Equipment manufacturers for defective products
• Third-party contractors for negligent work practices
• Property owners for unsafe working conditions
• Transportation companies for vehicle accidents

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Oilfield Accidents

What compensation is available for oilfield injuries in Texas?
Injured workers may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability benefits, and punitive damages depending on the circumstances of their case.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after an oilfield accident?
Texas generally allows two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit, though specific circumstances may affect this deadline.

Can I sue if my loved one was killed in an oilfield accident?
Yes, family members may pursue wrongful death claims seeking compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and other damages.

What if my employer claims the accident was my fault?
Texas follows a modified comparative fault system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation if the defendant was more than 50% responsible.

Do I need an attorney for an oilfield injury case?
Given the complexity of oilfield accidents and the resources of energy companies, having experienced legal representation significantly improves your chances of fair compensation.

Can I return to work after a catastrophic oilfield injury?
Many catastrophic injuries prevent workers from returning to their previous jobs. Our attorneys fight to secure compensation for diminished earning capacity and retraining costs.

Contact Shaw Cowart LLP Today

Don't let negligent employers or equipment manufacturers escape responsibility for your catastrophic injuries. The experienced Texas oilfield and refinery accident lawyers at Shaw Cowart LLP will thoroughly investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve.

Our legal team understands the devastating impact these accidents have on workers and families throughout Texas. We're committed to holding negligent parties accountable while helping you rebuild your life after a catastrophic injury.

Contact us today for a free legal consultation by calling 512-842-7085 or visiting our contact page. Time is critical in oilfield accident cases, so don't delay in protecting your rights and securing your family's future.