The discovery of oil outside of Beaumont, Texas at Spindletop ushered in a new era in the Texas economy, which has only increased in recent years with the shale boom in south Texas. As a result, many Texans lives are tied closely together with the oil and gas industry, as it provides a lucrative option for careers throughout the country. Unfortunately, the oil and gas industry is also fraught with terrible accidents, many of which can lead to loss of limb. If you or a loved one have been injured in an oil and gas accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your injuries.

Out of the over 500 fatal injuries in the oil and gas industry which occurred between 2007 and 2011, the majority of fatalities occurred in Texas – approximately 200. While the majority of these fatal accidents involved transportation, the next reason involved contact with objects and equipment. This includes accidents which involved a falling object.

According to the United States Department of Labor, there were approximately 1,400 nonfatal injuries in oil and gas extraction in 2011. However, if the studies include activities which support oil and gas extraction, the number of injuries jumps to 8,500.

Injuries leading to loss of limb often occur during oil and gas extraction. The development of hydraulic fracturing techniques have led to the increased ability to drill to extreme depths and reach petroleum products which were previously unattainable. Hydraulic fracturing involves shooting fluid into the well at a high pressure – a feat which can quickly backfire. However, this equipment can be difficult to maneuver and the failure of employers to appropriately train their workers or conduct routine maintenance could have tragic consequences.

The loss of a limb is one of the most devastating injuries which can occur to a person. Not only does the immediate accident cause tremendous physical damage but the recovery period is often months and even years long. The injured worker may not be able to have a job in the future, thereby impacting their family’s future. Loss of limb may not occur immediately after the accident but may occur months later after injured tissues are unable to properly heal, leading to extreme pain.

Oil and gas workers have several options after a devastating accident. Many workers are able to take advantage of workers’ compensation laws. However, in states such as Texas, not every employer is required to maintain workers’ compensation insurance. Therefore, workers can look to either federal maritime law (if the accident occurred on an offshore oil rig), or traditional state personal injury law.

As the victim of an oil and gas accident, you are entitled to request the following in a claim for damages:

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

The loss of limb not only impacts your physical well-being but also often leads to severe emotional strain, which will be considered by a court during the consideration of your claim.

If you or a loved one have been subjected to the loss of a limb during an accident, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley is experienced in handling oil and gas injury cases and will work closely with you to develop the appropriate claim for your case. The loss of a limb is not an injury that lends to an easy recovery, and instead requires ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. Contact our Houston or Beaumont offices today for your initial free consultation.