Pittsburgh Oil & Gas Accidents Lawyer

Experienced Legal Representation in Pennsylvania

If you were injured in an industrial accident or vehicle accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries and other losses. At Friday & Cox, we understand how difficult it can be to seek compensation after an accident, especially if you were hurt in an accident caused by another person's negligence. Our team at Friday & Cox is prepared to help you seek the compensation you deserve.

We understand that each case is unique, and we are prepared to handle complex cases that require a team of legal professionals. Our team is committed to providing you with the aggressive representation you deserve.

If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence in an oil and gas incident, please call us at (412) 900-8250 to set up a free case evaluation.

Understanding Pennsylvania Oil & Gas Accident Claims

Understanding Pennsylvania oil and gas accident claims involves familiarizing oneself with the legal framework and process for seeking compensation for injuries or damages resulting from such accidents.

Legal Liability

In Pennsylvania, individuals or entities may be held legally responsible for oil and gas accidents if their negligence or wrongful actions contributed to the incident. This could include operators, contractors, equipment manufacturers, or other parties involved in the oil and gas operations.

Oil & gas companies are required to follow certain safety standards when performing their operations. These standards are put in place to ensure that injuries and fatalities are minimized as much as possible. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and when they do, the victims of these accidents may be eligible to file a claim for compensation.

To make an injury claim against an oil & gas company, you must be able to prove that the company was negligent in some way. The company's negligence may have caused or contributed to your injuries. In some cases, the company's negligence may have caused your injuries directly.

This can be difficult to prove in many cases, but when it can be proven, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Types of Claims

In PA, you may have various types of claims depending on the circumstances of the accident. These can include personal injury claims, property damage claims, and wrongful death claims if a fatality occurred.

Statute of Limitations for Oil & Gas Injuries

The statute of limitations sets the time limit within which a claim must be filed. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury and property damage claims related to oil and gas accidents is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is important to initiate the claims process within this timeframe to preserve your rights.

Workers' Compensation for Oil & Gas Accidents

If you are an employee injured in an oil and gas accident while performing your job duties, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. Pennsylvania law requires employers to provide workers' compensation coverage, which can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Consulting with a Pittsburgh oil and gas accident attorney who specializes in workers' compensation can be helpful in navigating the claims process.

Third-Party Claims in Oil & Gas Injuries

In addition to workers' compensation, you may also have grounds for a third-party claim if someone other than your employer contributed to the accident. For example, if a defective product or equipment failure caused your injuries, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.

Evidence and Documentation

Building a strong case requires gathering evidence related to the accident and your injuries. This may include photographs, medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation. It is crucial to document the accident scene, injuries, and any conversations with involved parties.

Common Oil and Gas Accidents in PA

In Pennsylvania (PA), as well as in the oil and gas industry as a whole, there are various types of accidents that can occur. Here are some common oil and gas accidents that can happen in Pennsylvania:

• Well Blowouts: A well blowout happens when there is an uncontrolled release of oil, gas, or other fluids from a well. It can occur due to a failure in the well's equipment or the loss of well control. Blowouts can lead to fires, explosions, and environmental pollution.

• Fires and Explosions: Fires and explosions can result from equipment malfunctions, leaks, or improper handling of flammable substances. These incidents can cause severe injuries, property damage, and environmental contamination.

• Chemical Spills: Oil and gas operations involve the use of various chemicals, including drilling fluids, hydraulic fracturing fluids, and production chemicals. Accidental spills of these chemicals can occur during transportation, storage, or handling, leading to soil and water pollution.

• Vehicle Accidents: Oil and gas operations often require the transportation of heavy equipment, trucks, and other vehicles. Accidents involving these vehicles can lead to injuries, fatalities, and damage to property or infrastructure.

• Falls and Struck-by Accidents: Oil and gas sites typically have elevated structures, such as drilling rigs and platforms, where workers can be at risk of falling. Additionally, workers may be exposed to hazards from falling objects or moving machinery, resulting in injuries or fatalities.

• Equipment Failures: Oil and gas facilities utilize complex machinery and equipment, such as pumps, compressors, and pipelines. Equipment failures can occur due to mechanical issues, corrosion, or inadequate maintenance, which can lead to leaks, ruptures, or other accidents.

• Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Workers in the oil and gas industry may be exposed to hazardous substances such as hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and silica dust. Prolonged exposure to these substances can have adverse health effects, including respiratory problems and occupational diseases.

Consultation with an Oil & Gas Accident Attorney

Engaging the services of an experienced oil & gas accident lawyer in Pittsburgh who specializes in oil and gas accidents can greatly assist you in navigating the legal process. They can evaluate the circumstances of your case, determine liability, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary.

The sooner we are on the case, the better. Give us a call at (412) 900-8250 or contact us online to set up a free case evaluation today.