California is the third largest oil-producing state in the union. Kern and Ventura counties are home to most of that oil production. Oilfield workers often work in potentially dangerous environments, around hazardous substances, and with dangerous heavy equipment. When someone is involved in an accident in an oilfield, they typically have significant injuries. Founder and President of Rodriguez & Associates, Daniel Rodriguez, explains the importance of why reaching out to a lawyer after your oil injury is crucial:
The Severity of Oilfield Accidents
Given the nature of oil field operations, injuries sustained in such environments are often of a particularly severe nature. The high pressure and volume of machinery and equipment used in oil extraction and processing create conditions where accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries. When an employee is injured on the oilfield due to the immense pressure and operational intensity of the machinery, the resulting injuries are frequently grave and life-altering. Such injuries can include but are not limited to:
- Severe Burns: From explosions or contact with hot surfaces and chemicals.
- Crush Injuries: Resulting from heavy machinery or equipment malfunctions.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Caused by falls or being struck by objects.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Leading to paralysis or other permanent disabilities
Workers’ Compensation May Not be Sufficient
While workers’ compensation is designed to provide benefits to employees injured on the job, it often falls short in fully covering the costs and impacts of a serious oil field accident. Workers’ compensation typically covers:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for immediate and necessary medical treatment.
- Partial Lost Wages: A portion of your wages lost due to the inability to work.
However, these benefits might not be sufficient to address the full extent of your needs. Workers’ compensation may not cover:
- Long-term Rehabilitation Costs: Ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation expenses can be substantial.
- Full Lost Wages: Workers’ compensation usually does not cover all lost wages, particularly if you are unable to return to work for an extended period or ever.
- Pain and Suffering: Workers’ compensation does not compensate for non-economic damages such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
Your employer may not inform you that you are entitled to more financial help because of your accident. Working with an experienced attorney will help you find other avenues of compensation beyond a workers’ compensation case.
California Oilfield Accident Attorneys Who Will Fight On Your Behalf
Oil field accidents are serious, life-altering events. In Bakersfield, California, where the oil industry is a major part of the local economy, having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial. Our team of attorneys at Rodriguez & Associates has a proven track record, obtaining results such as $8 million for an oilfield accident, $4.5 million for a defective oilfield derrick, and $3.5 million for an oilfield crane dropping a pipe on a worker. We bring expertise, advocacy, and support to help you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an oil field accident, don’t hesitate to contact our law firm. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you through every step of the legal process.