Oil and gas accidents have become more common throughout the country as companies continue to discover new oil fields or new shale fields. The impact of the shale development throughout Texas has also led to new machinery and technology in the attempt to reach products which were previously trapped beneath the surface. These machines can become life-threatening in situations where the operators are not properly trained or in cases of malfunction. The resulting damages to individuals can be catastrophic after an accident leading to a crush injury. If you have received this type of injury, you may be entitled to bring a claim for your damages.

Between 2003 and 2010, oil and gas workers were injured on the job at a rate 7 times greater than other industries. While the construction industry continues to experience the top number of fatal injuries, oil and gas accidents have quickly emerged as a top cause of work-related injuries throughout the country.

Crush injuries can occur in a number of ways at any oil and gas field site. Many crush injuries occur as a result of hydraulic fracturing or “fracking.” This technique requires the pumping of fluid to free up oil and gas for extraction. The fluid must be pumped at a high pressure, and dangerous conditions can quickly occur if the machinery fails or a worker is unable to control the high pressure. These accidents can often lead to one worker being crushed by the equipment. Other workers may experience crush injuries in a more routine oil and gas extraction setting, wherein machinery falls on top of them during use. It is difficult to predict when machines will fail, although oil and gas companies should keep all machines and equipment in working order, including ongoing maintenance. All workers should additionally be well trained to control equipment and to handle any machinery fails.

There are several different avenues you can take after receiving a crush injury while on the job. If you and your employer meet certain state-mandated requirements, you may be able to bring a claim under the Texas worker’s compensation statute. However, many oil and gas workers are contract employees and this status typically does not fit within the worker’s compensation claim requirements.

However, an injured worker may still bring a claim for damages under the state personal injury statute. A worker will need to prove that the oil and gas company was responsible for their injury – whether by failing to properly train employees, failing to keep equipment in proper working order, failure to provide a safe work environment, or any other reason. An injured worker may bring a claim for damages which includes the following:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Future earnings
• Pain and suffering

An experienced personal injury attorney will be able to assist you in determining the full amount of damages you are entitled to receive after experiencing a crush injury.

If you or a loved one have received a crush injury during an oil and gas accident, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley has years of experience in handling personal injury claims and worker’s compensation claims related to oil and gas accidents. The oil and gas industry is a dangerous line of work, and workers should be entitled to receive compensation for their injuries and ongoing willingness to participate in a dangerous work environment. Crush injuries are especially life-threatening and can impact a worker’s ability to return to work and provide for their family. Contact our Beaumont or Houston offices today for your initial free consultation.