Oilfield Injury Attorney in Omaha, Nebraska

The aftermath of an oilfield injury can feel like a whirlwind — a blur of hospital visits, insurance calls, and a growing mountain of uncertainty. You deserve legal support, guidance, and advocacy during this time to protect your rights. At our firm, Harris & Associates, P.C., L.L.O., our skilled oilfield injury attorney is prepared to provide clarity on oilfield injuries, their causes, the safety measures, and most importantly, your rights as an injured worked. If you've been hurt in or around Omaha, Nebraska — including Douglas County, Sarpy County, Dodge County, Lancaster County, and more — reach out today for support. We are here for you.  

Overview of Oilfield Injuries 

Oilfield injuries encompass a range of physical harm that workers may experience in the oil and gas industry. These injuries often occur as a result of injuries involving machinery or equipment failure, human error, or negligence in following safety protocols. Among the most common oilfield injuries are burns, fractures, and traumatic brain injuries due to falls or being hit by heavy objects. Workers may also suffer from hearing loss due to constant exposure to loud noises, respiratory issues from inhaling toxic fumes, or musculoskeletal disorders due to repetitive stress. These injuries can have devastating consequences, often leading to long-term disability or even fatality. It is essential for workers to understand the risks associated with their profession and for employers to take all necessary precautions to protect their workforce's health and safety.

Workplace Safety Laws 

Workplace safety laws play a crucial role in protecting workers in the oil industry. These laws set the standards and regulations by which oil companies must abide to ensure the safety and health of their employees. Understanding these laws is vital not just for the workers themselves, but also for the companies that seek to prevent injuries and maintain a safe working environment. 

OSHA 

OSHA workplace safety laws encompass a broad range of standards and requirements designed to protect the well-being of employees across sectors. For those in the oil industry, key OSHA standards include regulations on the handling and storage of flammable and combustible materials, guidelines on the use and maintenance of equipment, and measures to prevent slips, falls, and other on-site injuries. Additionally, OSHA mandates safety trainings for employees to ensure they are aware of potential hazards and know how to handle emergencies. When employers fail to adhere to these standards, they put their employees at risk and may face legal consequences. Understanding these laws is essential for oilfield workers to ensure their rights are protected. 

OSHA has outlined several specific safety laws that directly impact the oil and gas industry. Here are some of the most relevant: 

• Hazard Communication Standard: This standard requires the proper identification, classification, and communication of hazardous chemicals in the workplace. Employers must inform and train employees about the relevant hazards. 

• Personal Protective Equipment: This regulation requires employers to provide employees with personal protective equipment when they are exposed to hazardous working conditions. 

• Permit-Required Confined Spaces: This standard deals with the procedures for safe work in confined spaces which are common in the oil and gas industry. It includes requirements for training, hazard evaluation, and rescue services. 

• Emergency Action Plan: This regulation requires employers to establish a clear plan for reporting fires and other emergencies, evacuation procedures, and emergency medical care. 

• Fire Protection in Shipyards: This specific regulation pertains to fire protection in shipyards, which is relevant to offshore oil rigs. 

• Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals: This standard contains requirements for preventing or minimizing the consequences of catastrophic releases of toxic, reactive, flammable, or explosive chemicals. 

Understanding these specific OSHA laws can empower employees to ensure their workplace is compliant, improving their safety and reducing the risk of injury. 

Nebraska Law 

Nebraska's Workers’ Compensation Act is a crucial law that safeguards the rights of workers who have been injured. Under this Act, employers are required to provide benefits for workers injured on the job, regardless of fault. This includes covering medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for permanent impairments. Notably, for oilfield injuries, there's an exception for independent contractors who are not covered by this rule. Furthermore, under Nebraska law, oil and gas companies are obligated to follow safety regulations set by the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission to mitigate the risk of injury. If companies fail to adhere to these standards and an injury occurs, they may be held liable for injuries sustained. 

The Jones Act 

The Jones Act, formally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a federal law that offers significant protections to seamen who are injured at sea, including oil rig workers. This Act stipulates that maritime employers have a legal duty to provide a "seaworthy" environment for their employees. If an employer fails to fulfill this duty and an employee is injured as a result, the employer may be held liable under the Jones Act. Furthermore, this Act gives seamen who are injured in the course of their employment the right to sue their employer for personal injury damages, a right not generally available to other types of workers. These damages can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Thus, the Jones Act serves as a crucial legal protection for workers in the maritime industry, including those working on offshore oil rigs. 

Who Is Liable for an Oilfield Injury? 

Liability in oilfield injuries can be complex and often falls to multiple parties. In some cases, the oil or gas companies may be held responsible for not adhering to safety regulations or for failing to maintain a safe working environment. Equipment manufacturers can also be accountable if an injury results from faulty or malfunctioning machinery. Additionally, third-party contractors may be liable if their negligent actions or omissions led to the mishap.  

Determining liability requires a detailed investigation into the circumstances of the incident and can benefit significantly from legal guidance. At Harris & Associates, P.C., L.L.O., we have the experience and resources to thoroughly investigate these injuries and hold the responsible parties accountable. 

Steps to Take Following an Injury 

You deserve to understand each step you should take if you or a loved one has been unfortunate enough to suffer an injury in an oilfield. These steps are crucial in ensuring your rights are protected and in preparing for any potential legal action. 

1. Seek Medical Attention. Your health is our top priority. If you're injured, seek immediate medical attention. This not only protects your wellbeing, but also serves as crucial documentation of your injuries. 

2. File a Report. Next, make sure to file a report with your employer. This should include a detailed account of the incident. Remember, it's not just your word against theirs; this report can be critical evidence in your case. 

3. Documentation. Compile as much documentation as possible. Your own account, copies of the report, pictures, medical reports - all these strengthen your case. We know it's a lot to handle, but we're here to guide you every step of the way. 

4. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney. This is where we come in. At Harris & Associates, P.C., L.L.O., we have the knowledge and experience to help you understand your legal options. We'll help you determine if filing a third-party claim is necessary to hold other responsible parties accountable. 

Navigating the aftermath of an oilfield injury can be overwhelming, but remember you are not alone. Remember the steps mentioned above and promptly contact us at Harris & Associates, P.C., L.L.O. Our dedicated team is ready to support you, provide you with the legal guidance you need, and help bring you justice. You have rights, and we're here to help you exercise them.