Hire The Best Oil Rig Injury Lawyers in Hobbs, NM
New Mexico is a crucial hub for oil rig operations. The work is demanding, and the stakes are high; every day, oil rig workers face risks that most can only imagine. Accidents and injuries on these rigs can be life-altering, leaving workers and family members needing financial support and legal guidance.
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro, P.C., we understand the physical, financial, and emotional toll an oil rig injury can take. When you hire a Hobbs oil rig injury lawyer at our firm, we dedicate ourselves to helping you get justice and the compensation you need.
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in an oil rig in Hobbs, contact our office to schedule a consultation with our injury lawyers. You’re not alone—help is available.
We Want to Hear Your Story – and We Want to Help
What Are Common Oil Rig Injuries?
While oil rig jobs are vital for local economies and global energy supplies, they have inherent hazards. Oil and gas extraction is one of the most dangerous careers in the United States. Workers face a myriad of dangers every day that can lead to catastrophic injuries. Here are some of the most common oil rig injuries we see in New Mexico:
- Burn injuries. The presence of flammable gasses and volatile liquids makes burn injuries a common risk. These injuries can range from minor to severe third-degree burns requiring extensive medical treatment.
- Fractures and crush injuries. Heavy machinery is a common sight on oil rigs. Accidents involving these pieces of equipment can result in severe fractures and crush injuries, sometimes leading to permanent disability. Some crush injuries can result in spinal cord damage, possibly paralyzing the worker for life.
- Head and brain injuries. Whether from falling equipment, slips, or falls, head injuries can be devastating. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can leave lasting impacts, affecting an individual’s ability to work and perform daily activities.
- Back injuries. Lifting, bending, and other physical labor on rigs can cause back injuries. Severe cases involve spinal damage, potentially resulting in reduced mobility and chronic pain.
- Chemical exposure injuries. Regular exposure to hazardous chemicals can cause various health issues, from respiratory problems to chemical burns.
- Electrocution. Working with electrical equipment in wet and hazardous conditions increases the risk of electrocution, which can have fatal consequences.
- Amputations. Severe accidents may lead to amputations, which are life-changing injuries that require significant adjustments in lifestyle and employment.
- Heat-related illnesses. The intense heat in New Mexico, particularly during summer, can lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other heat-related illnesses.
These injuries not only cause physical pain but also bring emotional and financial distress to workers and their families. At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro, P.C., we are prepared to represent workers injured on an oil rig.
Your Legal Rights as an Injured Oil Rig Worker in Hobbs
The complexity of oil rig operations and the severe nature of potential injuries mean that understanding and protecting your rights is crucial for any injured worker. Here’s an overview of the vital legal protections and options available to injured workers in New Mexico.
Workers’ Compensation Coverage
Workers’ compensation provides a vital safety net for injured employees. In New Mexico, this no-fault system allows injured workers to receive benefits regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Benefits typically cover your medical expenses.
All necessary medical treatments related to the injury are covered, including hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitative therapies. If you cannot work due to your injuries, you may be eligible for wage replacement benefits, which compensate for a portion of your lost wages.
Remember to promptly report your injury to your employer and file a claim with the New Mexico Workers’ Compensation Administration to protect your rights.
Pursuing a Third-Party Claim
In some cases, injuries on oil rigs are the fault of someone other than your employer, such as equipment manufacturers or subcontractors. Examples include:
- Unsafe working conditions created by contractors,
- Defective machinery or equipment, or
- Negligent operation of heavy equipment or vehicles by a third party.
When this happens, you may be eligible to file a third-party liability claim in addition to workers’ compensation. These fault-based claims can provide additional compensation for:
- Pain and suffering. Unlike workers’ compensation, third-party claims can compensate for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, and more.
- Punitive damages. In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, the court may award punitive damages to deter similar conduct in the future.
Navigating these claims requires a deep understanding of both local and industry-specific laws. A Hobbs oil rig injury lawyer can provide the legal advocacy needed to manage these complex situations and help you secure maximum compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oil Rig Injuries in Hobbs
To help you understand your rights and the steps you should take, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about oil rig injuries in New Mexico.
What Should I Do Immediately After an Oil Rig Injury in Hobbs?
After any injury, your priority should be seeking medical attention, even if the injury seems minor. As required by law, you must also report the injury to your supervisor and document everything about the incident and your injuries. It’s also crucial to contact a Hobbs oil rig injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and options.
Can I Claim Compensation Beyond Workers’ Compensation for an Oil Rig Injury?
If your injury was caused by someone other than your employer, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, you might be able to file a third-party claim. These claims can provide compensation for pain and suffering, which workers’ compensation does not cover.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Oil Rig Injuries?
Oil rig injuries can happen because of equipment malfunctions, human error, failure to follow safety protocols, and hazardous conditions. Common injuries include burns, fractures, head and brain injuries, and chemical exposures.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim for an Oil Rig Injury in New Mexico?
New Mexico law requires that you file a workers’ compensation claim within a specific time frame after the injury or after discovering a related illness, usually 15 days. However, the exact time limits can vary, so it’s essential to consult with a Hobbs oil rig injury attorney quickly to ensure your claim is on time.
Do I Need a Hobbs Oil Rig Injury Attorney if I’ve Been Offered a Settlement from a Third Party?
Yes, it’s crucial to have a lawyer review any settlement offer before you accept it. Insurance companies often offer less than what your claim is worth. A skilled Hobbs oil rig injury lawyer can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Why Should You Choose Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro, P.C. as Your Hobbs Oil Rig Injury Attorneys?
We bring extensive experience and a proven track record of success in oil rig injury cases. We provide personalized legal representation tailored to the specifics of your case, always fighting for the best possible outcome for you.
Speak to a Skilled Oil Rig Injury Attorney
Our legal team is here to help you with your case.
Contact a Hobbs Oil Rig Injury Attorney Today
It is important to speak with a lawyer early on. These types of claims are notoriously complicated. They involve multiple parties and insurance companies and have confusing regulations. At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro, P.C., our Hobbs personal injury lawyers have the skills and experience to help you get back on your feet.
We’ve recovered millions of dollars on behalf of clients and can help you navigate the legal system. Oil rig injuries are complex, but that shouldn’t prevent you from obtaining the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.