What to Do If You’re Hurt in an Oil Rig Accident

In 2023, 113 fatal occupational injuries occurred in the U.S. within the mining, quarrying, and oil & gas extraction sector, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

When oil rig worker accidents occur, it is essential to act promptly. You need to get yourself medical attention first of all, no matter how minor your injury is. You might feel fine initially, but there are some injuries that can only be detected by medical professionals. After verifying your medical condition through a proper medical checkup, you need to know what to do next.

Let’s discuss the steps you need to undertake to properly recover and receive the necessary support following an oil rig accident.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Delaying medical attention can worsen the effects of oil rig injuries on your body. The pain might get masked with increasing adrenaline in your body, so do not neglect your injuries.

Even minor ones can cause major complications, so getting yourself evaluated immediately is necessary. Call for help or get a co-worker to assist you in availing yourself of medical attention.

When you get to the clinic, be honest about your situation and give as much detail as you can. The doctor will be better able to find and treat your injuries if you provide them with the right information.

Report the Incident to Your Employer

Next to receiving medical treatment is reporting the injury to the employer at the earliest possible opportunity. Reporting the incident is an integral part of safety for you and your fellow workers.

Tell your boss or company safety officer the whole story of what happened. Include when and where the event took place, along with the actual circumstances of the accident. Don’t hold back any information. Include everything related to the incident.

Your employer needs to complete an accident report, which is an important document for any workers’ compensation claims. Reporting the incident not only protects your interests, but it also contributes to a much safer workplace.

Time is an important aspect of dealing with accidents on oil rigs. An employer that undermines the legal process can delay your case. If this happens, your case can become a stalled serious injury case, and you might have difficulties pursuing justice. Avoid settling for much less than you are entitled to. Your health and your job depend on it.

Document the Scene and Gather Evidence

After securing your safety and receiving appropriate medical attention, evidence gathering and scene documentation should follow in a timely manner.

Begin taking photographs of the area, including equipment involved and visible hazards. Include notes on the time of the accident and weather, and visibility conditions.

Find witnesses and obtain their contact information. Testimonies from these people can help support your case. If possible, obtain copies of any reports generated by your employer or safety personnel.

Write your recollections while they are still fresh in your mind. Systematic and detailed documentation will be beneficial for your case and clear up any confusion associated with the accident.

Meticulous documentation will be the foundation of a strong case.

Understand Your Legal Rights and Options

Once you have gathered the evidence from the accident scene, the next thing to know is how to assert your legal rights and options. There are possible claims for your medical expenses, for lost wages, and for pain and suffering.

A personal injury claim may be brought against the employer or a third party for the accident, depending on the circumstances. The state laws may also educate you about workers’ compensation, which could provide other benefits.

It is important to understand the statute of limitations since losing a deadline could mean the forfeiture of your rights. Weigh all possible avenues of recovery and prepare for a lengthy legal process to get compensated.

Getting familiar with the legal landscape is the first step toward justice.

Consult With an Experienced Oil Rig Accident Attorney

Consulting an experienced lawyer for oil rig accidents can cover a lot of ground for your case, as they are more familiar with the oil rig laws. They will also take care of the legal process for you.

An attorney examines your case and collects proof. They will help identify who could be at fault for the incident. They will also help meet deadlines and filing requirements for the protection of your rights.

A lawyer’s skill and expertise will allow you to challenge even some of the most powerful oil companies and their law teams. Your lawyer will provide guidance on how to communicate with insurance adjusters and what to say to avoid jeopardizing your claim.