Summary
- The hazards of truck accidents in the oil and gas industry are far too prevalent, leading to severe injuries and fatalities.
- Fatigue, negligent loading, inadequate training, and equipment failures contribute to these accidents.
- A skilled truck accident attorney can help victims pursue compensation avenues other than worker’s compensation.
For some, working in the oil and gas industry means facing the risk of severe injury or death daily. The hazards of truck accidents pose some of the most significant risks. Not only can an accident lead to significant short-term pain and debilitation, but it can also result in long-term consequences. Workers injured in oilfield accidents deserve compensation for their suffering.
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, a truck accident attorney with Sand Law will work to help you get the money you have coming. You can schedule a free consultation by calling 701-609-1510 or contacting us online.
Why Truck Accidents Happen in the Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry relies heavily on transporting goods, equipment, and personnel to and from drilling sites. This constant movement of trucks on highways, often carrying heavy loads, increases the likelihood of a tragedy. More than 40% of workplace deaths in the oil and gas industry occur due to vehicle accidents.
Several factors contribute to the hazards of truck accidents in this vital yet extremely dangerous oil field industry. The following is a brief look at just a few of them.
Long Hours and Fatigue
Truck drivers in the oil and gas sector often face demanding schedules, requiring long hours to meet tight deadlines. The extended periods of driving can lead to fatigue, impairing a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities.
Drivers will sometimes be on the road for 20 straight hours without sleep. Fatigued driving is equivalent to driving with a blood alcohol concentration level of .08%. That’s the legal limit in most states.
Fatigue-related accidents are among the most significant hazards of truck accidents in the oil and gas industry, posing a heightened risk to the driver and others on the road.
Heavy Loads and Improper Loading
Oil and gas trucks often transport heavy and sometimes hazardous materials. Improper loading or securing of these oilfield materials can result in accidents, especially during sudden stops, sharp turns, or adverse weather conditions. Inadequate loading practices increase the risk of cargo spills, leading to environmental hazards and increasing the severity of accidents.
Challenging Road Conditions
Many oil and gas drilling sites are located in remote or challenging terrains, requiring trucks to navigate uneven or unpaved roads. The combination of heavy loads, intricate routes, and adverse weather conditions amplifies the risk of vehicle collisions. Inclement weather like rain, snow, or ice further complicates road conditions.
Equipment Failures
The oil and gas industry relies on fleets of specialized trucks to transport equipment, machinery, and supplies. Equipment failures, such as malfunctioning brakes, tires, or engines, can result in truck accidents. Routine maintenance is crucial, as negligence or inadequate upkeep can result in life-threatening situations.
Inadequate Training
Due to the specialized nature of the oil and gas industry, truck drivers may require specific training to handle the challenges associated with transporting materials and equipment. Inadequate training can contribute to accidents, as drivers may lack the necessary skills to navigate complex routes, handle hazardous materials, or respond effectively to emergencies.
The Role of an Experienced Lawyer in Securing Compensation
When truck accidents occur in the oil and gas industry, victims often face significant challenges in obtaining the compensation they deserve. You can probably file a worker’s compensation claim, but the money you receive won’t cover all your accident-related expenses.
An experienced oilfield lawyer can pursue other potential avenues of compensation so you can fully recover all of your damages. Your attorney will play a vital role in navigating the legal complexities associated with these accidents, working to ensure you receive adequate compensation for your injuries, damages, and long-term consequences.
These are just a few ways your truck accident attorney can help.
Investigating the Accident and Collecting Evidence
Immediately after a truck accident, your attorney will collect evidence to establish liability and support your claim.
An experienced lawyer has the resources to perform a detailed investigation, collecting critical evidence essential to building a solid case for compensation. This evidence includes:
- Accident reports
- Witness statements
- Truck maintenance records
- Data from electronic logging devices
- Surveillance camera footage
Determining Liability
Determining liability in truck accidents within the oil and gas industry can be complicated. It may involve multiple parties, including trucking companies, drivers, maintenance providers, and manufacturers. A seasoned lawyer understands the nuances of these cases, carefully assessing each factor to identify responsible parties and establish liability.
Expert Testimonies
In complex cases involving truck accidents, expert testimonies can often help victims achieve a positive result in their case.
Experienced lawyers collaborate with industry experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists or safety professionals, to provide insights and opinions that strengthen the victim’s case. These expert testimonies help establish causation and contribute to your claim’s credibility.
Negotiation Skills
Dealing with insurance companies and other parties involved in the oil and gas industry requires extensive negotiation skills. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize payouts, and trucking companies may employ legal strategies to avoid liability.
An experienced lawyer understands the tactics insurers use. They’ll fight for your rights and push for a fair settlement encompassing all your present and future damages.
Legal Protections
The legal landscape surrounding truck accidents in the oil and gas industry can be complex, with specific regulations and industry standards to consider. A knowledgeable lawyer acts as a legal shield, protecting the victim’s rights and interests throughout the legal process.
They answer all of a victim’s questions about oilfield injuries, follow all legal procedures, meet all deadlines, and shield the victim from potential pitfalls.
Comprehensive Damages Assessment
Injuries resulting from truck accidents can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. An experienced lawyer works with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to comprehensively assess a victim’s damages.
These damages include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and other impacts on your life.
Speak With a Sand Law Attorney if You’ve Suffered an Injury Due to the Hazards of Truck Accidents in the Oil and Gas Industry
Truck accidents in the oil and gas industry present unique challenges, often requiring specialized knowledge to navigate the legal complexities associated with these incidents. Victims face not only immediate physical harm but also long-term consequences that require fair compensation.
A Sand Law truck accident lawyer will work to help you obtain that compensation. You can schedule a free case review by using our online form or calling 701-609-1510.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors contribute to the high occurrence of truck accidents within the oil and gas industry?
The oil and gas sector heavily depends on the constant movement of trucks. This frequent truck activity, often involving heavy loads on highways, elevates the risk of accidents.
What are the primary elements contributing to truck accidents in the oil and gas sector?
Multiple factors contribute to the risks associated with truck accidents in the oil and gas industry. These include extended working hours leading to driver fatigue, challenges related to heavy loads and improper loading practices, and navigating difficult road conditions in remote areas.
In what ways can a skilled attorney help oil and gas workers affected by truck accidents?
A seasoned attorney plays a crucial role in securing compensation by conducting thorough investigations, deciphering liability involving multiple parties, employing expert testimonies, and applying negotiation skills when dealing with insurance companies. Their expertise is indispensable in navigating the intricate legal aspects associated with these accidents.
Is relying solely on workers’ compensation sufficient for workers involved in a truck accident in the oil and gas industry?
While workers may be eligible for workers’ compensation, the funds they receive might not cover all the expenses related to the accident. An experienced attorney can explore alternative avenues of compensation to ensure that victims can fully recover all damages incurred.