5 Types of Oilfield Accidents | When to Contact an Artesia Attorney

For residents of Artesia, New Mexico, the oilfields have been a source of economic growth and prosperity. But in spite of these positive aspects of the oil and gas industry, oilfield jobs have also brought about injury and harm to far too many employees. Some studies suggest that oilfield workers have the deadliest jobs in the nation; oilfield workers are six times more likely than other workers to die on the job. The Artesia accident lawyers at Carabin Shaw want you to know the leading causes of accidents that result in severe injury on oilfields, as well as when to contact an Artesia attorney. Read on to learn more about common oilfield accidents, and to learn how to find a qualified New Mexico oilfield accident attorney after your Artesia oilfield injury.

The leading cause of worker injury on the oilfields is getting a finger or another body part entangled in equipment or machinery on the job site. Many factors increase the risk of these accidents occurring, including inadequate supervision, inadequate safety training, inadequate safety gear, worker fatigue, or faulty machinery. These accidents are frequently devastating because they often result in broken bones and sometimes necessitate amputations.

Oilfield workers often work long shifts outdoors in difficult environments. These conditions mean that slips and falls are a common and dangerous occurrence. Employers should ensure that work areas are kept clean in order to minimize the risk of falls.

Oil is a highly flammable substance. Because of its flammable properties, oil can easily ignite if it comes into contact with even a miniscule spark. This means that malfunctioning equipment or negligence on an oilfield can easily result in a disastrous fire, explosion, or both.

When oilfield equipment isn’t properly maintained—or when it is not properly secured—it can become a hazard to oilfield workers. Companies have a legal responsibility to train employees and abide by safety protocols so that workers are not struck by falling machines on the job site. However, accidents happen at even the safest workplaces, which is why safety gear should always be provided to and worn by employees on the oilfield.

Oilfield workers are at risk of breathing in many toxic chemicals, including benzene, hydrocarbons, sulfur dioxide, and many more. These chemicals (which are found in petroleum products) can lead to dizziness, long-term health problems, cancer, or even death. In order to prevent dangerous exposure, employers can utilize high quality air filtration systems and ensure that all safety protocols are being properly followed on their job sites.

If you’ve been hurt in a workplace accident and suffered an Artesia oilfield injury, you should contact a New Mexico oilfield accident attorney before accepting an insurance settlement for your injuries. In many cases, the initial insurance settlement offer is far too low; if you accept it before speaking to an attorney, it’s possible you could be leaving money on the table. Qualified Artesia accident lawyers can help you get the full amount of compensation that you deserve so that you can pay for your medical expenses, recover lost wages, and get your life back on track.

Our team of expert personal injury lawyers has been handling oilfield accident claims for more than two decades, and we are passionate about defending the rights of victims. If you’re ready to speak to a knowledgeable lawyer with decades of experience handling oilfield accident claims, call our Carabin Shaw office serving Artesia, New Mexico today at 915-779-2301. We offer all new clients a free initial consultation with a lawyer, so you have nothing to lose by speaking with a New Mexico oilfield accident attorney today. Don’t wait—call us and find out how a qualified attorney can help you.