The oil and gas industry has a reputation for serious and fatal injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, workers in this sector are seven times more likely to suffer fatal injuries than the average employee in the United States. For this reason, companies are required to comply with regulations outlined by the U.S. Department of Labor.

oil field and pump jack on sunset

If you were injured in an oilfield accident in New Mexico, contact the Law Office of Brian K. Branch, PC. As an Albuquerque personal-injury attorney, Mr. Branch can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the maximum compensation.

Call 505-207-4401 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also learn more about workers’ compensation claims by visiting USAttorneys.com.

Here are 10 common yet devastating injuries on oilfields in New Mexico:

  1. Burns

There is a high risk of burn injuries on oilfields. Flammable gases can cause immense explosions. Serious burns can be fatal or cause lifelong disfigurement.

  1. Head Injuries

In certain circumstances, hardhats are mandatory on oilfields – and for good reason. Heavy machinery, falling objects and other hazards can cause serious head injuries. Brain trauma is common, and some victims never make a full recovery.

  1. Back Injuries

Back injuries range in severity from minor sprains to permanent paralysis. Oilfields are peppered with hazards that can cause spinal injuries.

  1. Lacerations

Lacerations are a real threat on oilfields. Faulty tools, malfunctioning equipment, projectiles and even unprotected nails can cut workers. This can lead to a severe infection. Fortunately, employees may be able to avoid these injuries by wearing protective clothing.

  1. Fractures

Oilfield accidents frequently crush and break bones. Heavy machinery and falling objects can cause debilitating fractures.

  1. Amputations

A serious oilfield accident can result in amputations. Sometimes surgeons must amputate limbs to save victims’ lives.

  1. Stress Injuries

Stress injuries usually happen over time. Overusing certain body parts can cause hairline fractures and other complications. This is common when workers lift, bend or move objects repetitively.

  1. Heatstroke

New Mexico is arid and hot for much of the year, but oilfields continue to operate. If workers do not stay hydrated, then they may succumb to heatstroke, which can lead to organ failure or even death.

  1. Deafness

Oilfields are noisy. Loud equipment can damage the eardrums over time. This can lead to partial or complete deafness. Workers may be able to avoid this by wearing earplugs.

  1. Blindness

Sight loss is a common problem on oilfields. Sun glare can damage the eyes. Toxic gases, welding and grinding can also lead to blindness. Always wear face and eye protection when working on an oilfield.

If you were injured on an oilfield in New Mexico, contact the Law Office of Brian K. Branch, PC. Mr. Branch is an Albuquerque injury lawyer who can help you avoid mistakes during the claims process.

Our primary areas of focus include premises liability, serious personal injury, products liability, wrongful death, oilfield accidents and insurance bad faith. Call 505-207-4401 to schedule a free initial consultation.