Assessing Your Corpus Christi Oilfield Accident Claim

EVALUATING YOUR OILFIELD ACCIDENT

When things go wrong in the oilfields, the situation can be confusing. Hilliard Law helps guide you to the compensation you deserve. We know that the process starts with a critical evaluation of your accident.

• Have safety protocols been breached?
• Was there employer negligence?
• What extent of injuries and lost wages have you suffered?

These are the questions we meticulously dissect to ensure the foundation of your claim is rock-solid.

IDENTIFYING BREACHES IN SAFETY REGULATIONS

One accident in the oilfield can lead to horrible results. It’s our job as your legal representative to delve into the details, examining OSHA standards and employer training protocols. With the assistance of petroleum engineers and oilfield safety experts, we identify any breaches in safety regulations, such as assigning tasks to untrained workers or failing to provide necessary protective gear.

These findings are paramount in establishing the groundwork for your claim.

INVESTIGATING EMPLOYER NEGLIGENCE

Did your employer cut corners on safety to boost profits? We scrutinize every angle of employer conduct, from adherence to industry standards to compliance with OSHA regulations. Our investigation is fortified by technical experts who lend their inside knowledge to reveal any negligence or misconduct contributing to the accident.

It’s this level of detail that sets the stage for a compelling personal injury claim, increasing the likelihood of a successful personal injury lawsuit.

DOCUMENTING THE EXTENT OF INJURIES AND LOST WAGES

Your injury is more than just a medical record; it’s a life-changing event that deserves full recognition. We meticulously compile all relevant medical documentation and evidence of lost income, painting a clear picture of the financial and emotional toll the accident has taken. By laying bare the true economic loss, we strengthen your position for fair compensation.

COMMON OILFIELD ACCIDENTS AND LEGAL LIABILITY

Understanding the types of accidents and who can be held legally liable is pivotal in formulating a robust case.

FREQUENT TYPES OF OILFIELD INCIDENTS

In the oil and gas fields, hazards lurk around every valve and beneath every drill bit. Frequent incidents include:

• Vehicle crashes: Such as a truck overturning due to improperly secured cargo
• Equipment malfunctions: For instance, a drilling rig failure leading to a blowout
• Explosions: Like a sudden ignition of flammable gases in confined spaces

Each is capable of causing life-altering injuries.

DETERMINING FAULT IN OILFIELD ACCIDENTS

Establishing fault in an oilfield accident involves a meticulous process that includes:

• Dissecting industry standards
• Pinpointing protocol breaches
• Clarifying the chain of negligence that led to the injury
• Holding the responsible parties accountable

This process often requires the aid of technical experts.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ACTING QUICKLY AFTER AN OILFIELD ACCIDENT

Time is of the essence after an oilfield accident. Acting quickly ensures that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations, which in Texas is two years from the date of the accident, preserving your right to seek compensation. Our team at Hilliard Law encourages you to reach out promptly so we can begin safeguarding your interests from day one.

THE LEGAL PROCESS FOR OILFIELD ACCIDENT CLAIMS IN TEXAS

The legal process for oilfield accidents requires precision, persistence, and a deep understanding of the law. At Hilliard Law, we guide you through each phase of the claim process, including:

• The initial gathering of evidence
• Filing the claim with the appropriate parties
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Preparing for trial, if necessary
• Representing you in court

We will fight for your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve. Our experience in Texas law ensures you don’t stand alone against the giants of the oil and gas industry.

COLLECTING AND PRESERVING EVIDENCE

After an oilfield accident, critical evidence can vanish quickly. The transient nature of these accident scenes means that skid marks get eroded, debris is cleared, and the landscape of the incident can change within hours, making the immediate collection of evidence imperative.

Immediate Evidence to Gather at the Accident Site:

• Photos of the accident scene, including equipment, vehicles, and environmental conditions
• Contact information and statements from any witnesses
• Copies of any accident reports filed by onsite safety personnel or supervisors
• Any visible warning signs or lack thereof in the vicinity of the accident
• Personal protective equipment used at the time of the incident
• Documentation of weather conditions, if relevant

Evidence That Hilliard Law Will Assist in Obtaining Post-Accident:

• Surveillance footage or safety monitoring data from the time of the accident
• Detailed medical records and expert medical opinions on injuries sustained
• Maintenance records for any equipment involved in the accident
• Employee training records and safety protocol documentation
• Official Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports
• Expert witness testimony to support the claim

Preserving this evidence is crucial, as it forms the foundation of your claim. The strength and credibility of your case hinge on the quality and integrity of the evidence collected.  Without it, proving liability and securing the compensation you deserve becomes a challenge fraught with uncertainty.

TEXAS LAW AND WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE

In Texas, oilfield accident laws might seem complicated but don’t worry. This complexity arises from the fact that Texas is unique in allowing employers to opt out of the state’s workers’ compensation system, which can leave injured workers uncertain about their coverage options. Additionally, the laws and regulations governing these insurance policies are intricate, with various stipulations and exceptions that can affect the outcome of a claim.

Whether you’re dealing with workers’ compensation or a personal injury law claim, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our experience in both areas means you’re in good hands.

SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS AND LITIGATION STRATEGY

At Hilliard Law, we are proficient in negotiation and litigation. In settlement negotiations, our approach is collaborative yet firm. We aim to reach a resolution that meets your needs without the need for a trial. Our lawyers are skilled at articulating the merits of your case, backed by solid evidence and expert testimony, to maximize your compensation through settlement discussions.

However, if negotiations do not yield a satisfactory outcome, our litigation strategy is aggressive and thorough. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, meticulously crafting arguments that are compelling and clear. By preparing for the courtroom from day one, we are always ready to advocate for your rights before a judge and jury, ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.

Our goal is to get you the compensation you deserve, whether through settlement discussions or in court, if necessary.

UNDERSTANDING COMPENSATION FOR OILFIELD INJURIES

The aftermath of an oilfield accident leaves a trail of medical bills, lost wages, and often, immeasurable pain and suffering. Understanding the scope of compensation available to you is vital, and it’s influenced by the nature and severity of your injuries.

At Hilliard Law, we fight to ensure you are compensated fairly for every hardship you’ve faced, from the moment of impact to the full extent of your recovery.

CALCULATING MEDICAL BILLS AND FUTURE MEDICAL TREATMENT

Calculating the cost of your medical care is not just about the present; it’s about securing your future. From immediate treatment costs to the price of long-term care, we methodically tally every expense to ensure your compensation covers the full spectrum of your medical needs.

Here is a list of potential costs that you may be entitled to recover:

• Emergency room visits and immediate medical care following the accident
• Surgical procedures related to injuries sustained in the accident
• Hospital stays, including any intensive care unit charges
• Prescription medications for pain management and infection prevention
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation services
• Long-term care for chronic conditions or permanent disabilities resulting from the accident
• Medical devices or equipment, such as wheelchairs or prosthetics
• Psychological counseling or therapy for trauma and emotional distress
• Follow-up doctor’s appointments and ongoing medical supervision
• Home health care services, if required due to the severity of the injuries

ASSESSING LOST INCOME AND EARNING CAPACITY

Evaluating lost income is a complex equation that takes into account not only the days you’ve missed but also the impact on your future earning capacity. Our experienced attorneys work with economists and vocational experts to accurately assess and quantify these losses:

• Current lost wages from time off work due to the accident
• Future lost wages if you’re unable to return to work in the same capacity
• Loss of earning capacity if you’re unable to perform the same work or earn the same amount of money as before the accident
• Diminished job prospects due to the injuries sustained
• Costs associated with retraining or education if you need to switch professions
• Lost opportunities for overtime work, promotions, or career advancement
• Any other potential income lost due to the accident’s impact on your ability to work

VALUING PAIN, SUFFERING, AND EMOTIONAL DISTRESS

How does one put a price on sleepless nights and the pain that lingers long after the physical wounds have healed? At Hilliard Law, we apply a nuanced approach to valuing your pain, suffering, and emotional distress. By using multipliers that reflect the gravity of your experience, we ensure these intangible losses are recognized in your compensation. Here are several aspects of pain, suffering, and emotional distress for which you can seek compensation:

• Physical pain and discomfort experienced both immediately after the accident and in the long-term recovery process
• Emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from the accident
• Loss of enjoyment of life, if you’re no longer able to engage in hobbies or activities you once found pleasurable
• Grief and emotional suffering due to disfigurement or the loss of physical capabilities
• Anguish from the strain on family relationships or the loss of companionship
• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and nightmares, stemming from the accident
• Ongoing fear and nervousness, particularly if the accident triggers a phobia or psychological aversion to certain situations
• Embarrassment and humiliation from scars, disabilities, or the need for assistance in personal care
• Mental anguish from the awareness of diminished life expectancy or the prospect of chronic pain
• Any other form of psychological or emotional difficulty experienced as a direct result of the oilfield accident

Contact us today by calling (361) 882-1612 to speak with one of our personal injury attorneys and begin your journey to compensation and closure.