OIL & GAS INJURIES

In Texas, you're generally allowed two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit—whether it's due to negligence by another party or unsafe conditions.

If the injury happened at work and you're using workers' compensation, you must report the injury to your employer within 30 days. Then, you typically have one year to file the workers' comp claim.

Unlike a simple workplace accident, injuries in oil and gas settings often involve several possible at-fault parties:

• Your employer, if they didn't keep the site safe or follow regulations.
• Contractors or subcontractors, if they caused the safety or training.
• Equipment manufacturers, if faulty gear caused the accident.
• Other parties, like co-workers or property owners, depending on the scenario.

Because of the number of parties involved, these claims can get complicated fast.

If you get hurt on the job:

• Workers' compensation is one path—you may get coverage for medical bills and some lost wages.
• But if someone else besides your employer is at fault (like a contractor or equipment maker), you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek more compensation, including for pain and suffering.

Oil- and gas-industry jobs expose workers to many hazards, such as:

• Fires, burns, or explosions
• Falls or slipped injuries on rugged platforms
• Exposure to toxic chemicals, hydrogen sulfide, volatile gases
• Repetitive injuries or crush injuries from heavy machinery
• Accidents while traveling to or from remote sites

Getting medical attention—even for injuries that feel minor—is essential for your health and any legal claim.

• Act quickly—evidence, witness accounts, and safety records disappear fast.
• Document everything—photos, medical records, incident details, names of witnesses.
• Talk to a lawyer early—they can help decide whether to pursue workers' comp, a lawsuit, or both, and guide you through the process.