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Working in the oil fields is one of the most dangerous jobs in Texas. From blowouts and equipment failures to exposure to toxic chemicals, workers face serious risks every day. When accidents happen, the consequences can be life-changing—severe burns, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, or even death. If you’ve been hurt on an oil field, knowing your legal options is critical.
Texas is home to several major oil-producing regions. The Permian Basin in West Texas is one of the largest, spanning Midland, Odessa, and surrounding counties. Other active areas included the Eagle Ford Shale in South Texas, the Barnett Shale near Fort Worth, and oil fields in East Texas. Accidents can and do happen in all of these areas, and workers from across the state often travel long distances for shifts.
Texas recorded 36 fatal accidents related to oil and gas extraction operations in 2023, reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In Texas, companies have a legal duty to exercise ordinary care to prevent foreseeable injuries. This includes protecting both employees and independent contractors from work-related hazards when the company retains some control over how the work is performed.
This issue often arises in real estate development, where companies subcontract services such as electrical, masonry, or carpentry work. These companies may mistakenly believe they can delegate all responsibility for safety to the contractors, creating unsafe working conditions that undermine the quality and safety of the work.
Additionally, OSHA requires employers to report any severe work-related injuries—such as amputations, in-patient hospitalizations, or eye loss—under a rule that took effect on January 1, 2015.
Oil field injuries account for the most severe injuries in the U.S. according to OSHA. Here is a closer look at some common accidents:
Throughout oil production workers get their arms, feet, legs, and fingers, caught in the rig equipment. These situations can pin the worker into the equipment, or wrap them up in a chain or cable. Workers may also be trapped under collapsed rigs.
Of course you know, oil and gas are flammable. In the downstream, upstream, and midstream support services, these explosions are common. Maintaining ignition sources near the wellhead are vital to prevent such calamities.
Elevated rigs increase the risk of fall injuries. Any fall into the ocean from a seaside rig can be fatal. Adequate warnings and safety measures should be provided to prevent deadly falls.
Chemicals used in fracking can be a conduit for electrical currents used on rigs. These chemicals require diligent safety guidelines and procedures. Also, they are corrosive and can leave chemical burns.
When rigs get overloaded they collapse without notice. If a rig was not constructed properly then the risk increases. Over time rigs degrade and age. Strict construction protocols to avoid structural overload is a vital concern of any oil and gas business. These situations can cause workers to be crushed or thrown from a rig into the ocean.
Hydrogen Sulfide gas is used in oil and gas production. The Hydrogen Sulfide does not have a color to warn workers of its presence. It fills in areas with bad ventilation systems. Those exposed to it can suffer irregular heart rates and neural impairment. This poisonous gas can cause death or brain damage. This toxic chemical is also highly combustible, which can lead to blown wells, and burns.
to your supervisor and ensure it’s documented.
immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
photos, witness names, and details about the incident.
from the company or their insurance without legal advice.
Contact an experienced oil field injury lawyer.
Mitch Abeita is an experienced oil field injury lawyer who can effectively evaluate your case and help you understand your rights. If you have had an oil field accident and your boss does not carry Texas Workers Compensation Insurance, give us a call.
This website’s information regarding consultation with a Dallas personal injury lawyer is not intended as legal advice.
