Who Can You Sue for Oilfield Accident Injuries?

When you are injured on the job due to an oil rig explosion or accident, there are a few options to take when seeking financial compensation for your injuries. The most common way is to file for worker’s compensation. Workers’ comp in Texas can provide benefits that cover medical bills and a portion of your lost income. 

However, as many know too well, these benefits are often not enough to meet the needs of those who have suffered from life-changing injuries. 

What If My Employer Doesn’t Carry Workers’ Compensation Coverage?

Employers in Texas are not required to provide workers’ compensation coverage. If your oil and gas employer does not offer workers’ comp insurance, then you are able to sue your employer directly for workplace injuries. You have to prove that your employer or one of your fellow employees acted negligently or recklessly and contributed to the accident. 

Can I Sue Other Parties for Oilfield Injuries?

Whether or not you are able to claim workers’ compensation or sue your employer, you also are able to sue any other parties that may be liable for your injuries after an oilfield accident. In certain cases, you may need to repay your employer’s insurance provider if you obtain enough compensation from a third party, but this is only if you recover enough to fully compensate your damages without workers’ comp benefits. 

The parties that can be sued after an oilfield injury include:

• Contractors and subcontractors. If someone working for the company other than your employer causes your injuries, you have a right to file a claim against that person’s employer. 

• The oil and gas industry. If you work for a contractor or subcontractor, you may be able to pursue a claim against the oil and gas company. 

• The property owner. Oil companies will sometimes lease their property from third-party owners. In certain cases, these owners may be held liable for injuries resulting from dangerous premises. 

• Oil rig owners and manufacturers. Explosions, fires, collapses, and other drilling accidents may be caused by poor rig maintenance or design. In these cases, oilfield injury victims may be able to pursue a claim against the owner or manufacturer of the rig. 

• Trucking companies, shipping companies, and vehicle manufacturers. If you were injured in a trucking accident on an oilfield, you may be able to pursue a claim against the trucking company, shipping company, truck manufacturer, or another third party. 

Oilfield Accidents in Houston

Texas has the highest rate of fatal oil and gas accidents in the country, with more oilfield deaths than any other state. Connolly Law is here to provide you with help when you need it most. Kevin J. Connolly at Connolly Law believes in giving back to the community, and our legal team is here to help injured parties recover after being injured due to the negligence of a big oil company. Our team of Houston oil rig accident attorneys is here to fight for your legal rights. Give us a call today at 877-CONNLAW to see how we can help.