Hobbs Oil Field Accidents

In eastern New Mexico cities like Hobbs, the oil industry is making significant changes. In a town of roughly 38,000, a growing tax base recently supported the construction of a $61 million recreation center. People are taking notice. According to Rebecca Elliot and Harriet Torry of The Wall Street Journal, “Oil is booming again in the Permian Basin, and so are the fortunes of this sun-bleached town.” An influx of jobs has led to significant economic gains in Hobbs, New Mexico, and locals aren’t complaining. However, oil has not only brought good things to the city. It has also injured oilfield workers.

The U.S. Department of Energy anticipates that the Permian Basin boom will remain steady. The agency predicts that oil workers in the basin will handle roughly 3.9 million barrels per day in 2019. In a dangerous industry, that number is a lot to manage, and our attorneys want you to know you are not alone if something goes wrong. If you were injured while working in crude output fuels, a Hobbs oilfield accident lawyer with Carabin Shaw could help you figure out your next steps.

What Causes Oilfield Accidents and Injuries?

New Mexico oilfield injury attorneys are familiar with common oilfield accidents. Oilfield accident victims in Hobbs, New Mexico know that their employers might send mixed messages about whether safety or productivity is more important. While oil and gas extraction is, by default, a dangerous industry, many oilfield accidents are preventable. Some common oilfield dangers include:

• Fires and explosions: The oil well and its surrounding equipment release flammable vapors. Friction, static electricity, open flames, and the like can ignite these gases to a tragic result. An oilfield injury attorney serving Hobbs, New Mexico can assist you with filing a claim.
• Heavy equipment failures: Oilfields require heavy equipment that can cause severe injuries if it fails. Federal law requires employees to receive thorough training to operate heavy machinery, and all machines need to be adequately maintained for employee safety. If equipment failure hurt you, our lawyers would like to help.
• Slips and falls: A Hobbs oilfield accident lawyer knows that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires clean walking surfaces. Even though this is the case, falls from elevated equipment are common. This type of accident occurs across many industries, so our personal injury attorneys are especially comfortable processing this workplace claim.
• Vehicle accidents: Surprisingly, the majority of oilfield accidents are vehicle-related, and unsafe roads and fatigue play a part. Our New Mexico oilfield injury attorneys can help determine fault.

After we determine what caused your injuries, we can move on to the next step: How does a New Mexico oilfield injury claim work?

Processing a New Mexico Oilfield Injury Claim

Depending on the nature of your injuries, there are, broadly, two ways of approaching your case:

1. Workers’ Compensation: Unlike many states, New Mexico requires most companies with more than three employees to have workers’ compensation insurance. There are conditions in workers' compensation law for both employees and employers regarding work-related injuries. However, there are strict deadlines you must comply with to receive compensation for your damages. You also have to fill out complicated forms. An attorney can make sure you abide by the insurance regulations and receive the payout you deserve. Workers’ compensation claims almost always mean that you cede blaming your employer for your injuries. However, there may still be a personal injury case when the company intentionally endangered its employees.
2. Third-Party Lawsuit: Even if you file for workers’ compensation, you can also file a lawsuit against a relevant third party. For example, if defective equipment caused your injuries, a lawyer can help you sue the manufacturer.

Finding the Right Attorney

When you need compensation to cover your medical bills, a Hobbs oilfield accident lawyer with Carabin Shaw is here to help. For a free consultation, dial 432-620-0544 or call us toll-free at 1-800-862-1260.

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