What Are the Most Common Oilfield Accidents?

In New Mexico, the oil industry has perhaps never been more robust. That being said, more work and more people on the job inevitably leads to more injuries. Working in the oilfields is a dangerous job, and though workers should assume the company employing them is working safely, it is not always the case. Numerous injuries can occur because of the negligence of an employer or manufacturer. If you or a loved one is working in the oil field, it is essential to understand some of the most common injuries resulting from this neglect.  

Most Common Injury Claims in the Oilfield

Here are four of the most common oilfield injury claims that happen in New Mexico: 

• Slip and Falls: Any fast-paced work environment is prone to countless slips, trips, and falls. But, in the oilfield, workers are surrounded by dangerous equipment and are often overworked, leading to fatigue and errors in decision-making. This kind of environment leads to many spills, which are not always taken care of properly. This sort of cycle is always a problem, and any slip, trip, or fall on an oil rig can entitle a worker to compensation for their injuries.
• Blowouts: When drilling, there is sometimes an uncontrolled release of natural gas or crude oil, known as a well-blowout. Blowouts are typically the failure of the well’s pressure control system, and when this happens, there is always the danger of a disastrous fire.
• Vehicle Accidents: A common cause of injury on the oilfield is vehicle accidents. Oilfield workers have been injured in collisions with other trucks, collisions with heavy equipment, and single-vehicle turnovers. Fatigue, poorly maintained vehicles, hazardous road conditions, and other workers’ substance abuse are all factors that may contribute to these accidents.
• Heavy Equipment Failures: Operating heavy equipment is part of the job in the oilfield, though sometimes the equipment fails, leading to severe injury or even death. Potential causes of heavy equipment failure are poor maintenance, overuse, neglecting safety inspections, and inadequate employee training.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today

While these are some of the most common causes of oilfield accidents, they are not all, and if you or someone you know has been hurt while working in the oilfield, it is best to call an experienced attorney to discuss the potentiality of a claim. The Law Office of Brian K Branch has boundless experience in oilfield accidents and is not afraid to face off against big oil companies. We are committed to helping victims of tragic accidents by fighting for the compensation they deserve. Reach out today to book a consultation at our office in Albuquerque.

The Law Office of Brian K Branch

715 Marquette Ave. NW

Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102

Tel: 505.764.9710

Toll Free: 888.972.1212

Fax: 505.764.9722