Roughnecks vs. Hard Knocks: Battling Injuries in West Texas Oilfields

Working in the oilfields of West Texas can be a lucrative endeavor, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. Oilfield workers, often referred to as "roughnecks," face the daily challenge of navigating a dangerous environment where injuries are common. In this blog, we'll explore the hazards that oilfield workers encounter and the importance of seeking legal recourse when injuries occur.

The Hazards of Oilfield Work

Oilfields are inherently hazardous places to work, with numerous potential dangers that can lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common hazards faced by oilfield workers include:

heavy machinery accidents
falls from heights
exposure to toxic chemicals
fires or explosions.

The physically demanding nature of the job alone can contribute to injuries, as workers are required to perform tasks that involve heavy lifting, repetitive motions, and long hours.

Injuries in West Texas Oilfields

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of oil and gas extraction-related fatalities. These statistics highlight the need for improved safety measures and vigilance in the industry. In a 2022 report from the CDC, Texas had 219 deaths, followed by Oklahoma with 48. West Texas accounts for approximately 40% of the national oil supply, so the elevated mortality rates are not unexpected. However, this should not be interpreted as a cause for complacency.

Negligence In West Texas Oilfields

In many oilfield injury cases, negligence plays a significant role. Negligence can involve failures on the part of employers, equipment manufacturers, or other parties responsible for worker safety. It may include inadequate training, lack of proper safety equipment, or the failure to maintain machinery and equipment in safe working condition.

Roughneck Rights and Legal Recourse

Oilfield workers have rights, and they deserve a safe working environment. When injuries may occur due to negligence or unsafe conditions, seeking legal recourse is a vital step toward justice and compensation. A personal injury settlement can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the injury.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the complexities of an oilfield injury case can be challenging, especially when dealing with powerful oil and gas companies and their insurers. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side will help you:

Gather and organize evidence
Assist in accessing medical care
Negotiate on your behalf to obtain the best outcome possible

Our attorneys have years of experience handling oilfield cases. Below are a few examples of important cases we have won:

VB Attorneys: Your Advocates in Oilfield Injury Cases

At VB Attorneys, we understand the unique challenges that west Texas oilfield workers face and the impact that injuries can have on their lives and livelihoods. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to representing injured workers and their families, holding negligent parties accountable, and fighting for the compensation they deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured while working in the West Texas oilfields, don't hesitate to reach out for legal assistance. Contact our oilfield injury lawyers today for a free consultation, and let us be your advocates in the battle against injuries sustained in the oilfields.

10/16/2023