What Causes Most Oil Rig Accidents in Texas?
Texas is the leading oil producer in the United States. It not only has more oil rigs than any other state but also produces just under half of the crude oil in the country. As a prolific oil producer, the Lone Star State also faces a number of challenges. The large scale of the production makes the state more prone to oil rig accidents and other catastrophic events.
At the Karam Law Office, we provide dedicated advocacy for individuals who have been injured in oil rig accidents throughout the state. Our lawyers are well-versed in oil rig accident cases. We have recovered multiple multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for offshore workers and their families. If you have been injured in a Texas oil rig accident, contact our office at (832) 859-8453 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Here are the most common causes of oil rig accidents in the state:
1. Equipment Malfunction
One of the most common causes of oil rig accidents is equipment malfunctions. From crane accidents to failures of the actual machinery, equipment malfunctions on an oil rig can be not only dangerous but deadly. Insufficient training, a lack of proper safety protocols, and improper supervision can all cause machinery to fail on a rig.
2. Insufficient Training
Oil rigs are dangerous work sites, particularly if employees are not adequately trained. A lack of proper training can put everyone on the rig at risk for serious injury or death. Employers are required to ensure that oil rig and offshore workers receive the training they need to properly run all equipment and operate the rig.
3. Fires and Explosions
According to the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), there were 4 explosions and 117 fires on offshore drilling platforms alone in 2021. Fires and explosions on oil rigs and offshore platforms cause a large number of injuries each year. Once they start, they are difficult to stop.
4. Inadequate Safety Equipment
As reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (eia), Texas produces 42.5% of the crude oil in the United States. With the enormous amount of oil production coming from the state, it is unsurprising that a large number of oil rig accidents occur each year. Many of these incidents could be prevented by having sufficient safety equipment for all employees.
5. Exposure to Dangerous Toxins
Another leading cause of oil rig accidents and injuries is when there is exposure to a dangerous toxin. Oil rigs may contain dangerous chemicals that can cause harm upon exposure. When this happens there may be liability on one or more parties for resulting injuries. Many offshore accidents are also caused by exposure to harmful chemicals. Each of these incidents should be fully investigated to determine the cause.
Contact Our Office to Schedule a Free Consultation
Were you injured in an oil rig accident in Texas? Contact our office at (832) 859-8453 to schedule a free case evaluation. Cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no fees unless we win. Call our office today to speak directly with an experienced oil rig accident attorney today.
