As you may know, working in an oil field can be a very dangerous job. There are seemingly endless hazards workers must constantly keep an eye out for.
Due to the dangerous nature of this work, it is reasonable to consider that deaths in this industry may be on the rise. Read on to learn more.
Oil and Gas Industry Fatal Injuries
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction account for the following number of fatal injuries:
- 2016 - 89 deaths
- 2017 - 112 deaths
- 2018 - 130 deaths
- 2019 - 127 deaths
- 2020 - 78 deaths
As you can see from the data above, the number of yearly deaths in the oil and gas industry was consistently on the rise until 2019 when they decreased slightly.
The significant drop in the fatality rate in 2020 could be the result of reduced oil and gas production due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, some studies suggest that oil and gas industry worker fatalities are vastly underreported. In fact, when injuries and deaths occur, the blame is often pinned on the worker.
It is common for oil and gas companies to immediately fly a lawyer out to the rig or port of entry where a worker’s accident occurs in an effort to secure statements that can be used against them later. If a worker is awarded an injury settlement, the payment amount is frequently kept confidential.
How to Avoid a Fatal Oil and Gas Injury
While oil and gas industry injuries are not always avoidable, there are some steps you can take to help prevent a fatal injury in the field, including:
- Receiving adequate training and always asking questions if you are unsure.
- Always keeping the field clean and clear.
- Consistently checking your tools, equipment, and facilities.
We’re Here to Help Injured Victims
If you’ve suffered injuries while working in the oil and gas industry, you may be eligible for compensation to help cover your losses. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our skilled team right away to learn more about what we can do to help with your case.
We have helped many other people in similar situations and we will do everything possible to help your case succeed too.
Contact the skilled team at Bandas Law Firm, P.C. right away to discuss the details of your case. Give us a call at (361) 238-2789 or fill out the online contact form.
