New Mexico is second only to Texas in crude oil production. While the oil and gas industry makes up nearly 15 percent of New Mexico’s workforce, work in the oil fields is inherently dangerous. The nature of the large heavy machinery means that injuries are often catastrophic in nature. Workers must constantly be aware of the possibility of electrocution or even explosions.
Oil drilling often means working at heights in perilous conditions. Oil field work is some of the most dangerous work in the world. Unfortunately, injuries are common in this industry. The best thing injured workers can do after suffering a serious injury is talk to skilled New Mexico oil field injury lawyers.
Injured workers typically have two options after being hurt out in the field. The first option is to accept worker’s compensation benefits. The second option is to file a personal injury lawsuit, but this can only be done in certain instances. Speaking to experienced New Mexico oil field injury lawyers will help you understand what your options are after an injury at work in the oil fields. Here’s what you need to know.
File Worker’s Compensation Benefits
Worker’s compensation benefits are available for injured employees in most industries. In New Mexico, these benefits offer a couple of advantages. First, it doesn’t matter who is at fault in the accident. Even if you were partially to blame for the accident that hurt you in the oil field, worker’s compensation benefits will cover it.
Worker’s compensation will cover medical expenses for your injury along with necessary prescription medication and transportation to doctor’s visits. It will also help cover a portion of your lost wages which can help with living expenses while you recover. If you can’t return to your job, worker’s compensation will also cover job training in a new industry to help get you back to work.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
There are only certain instances where injured workers can file a personal injury lawsuit and almost never against their employers. If a third party is involved in the accident that caused your injury, however, New Mexico oil field injury lawyers may be able to help you recover financial compensation.
For instance, if faulty equipment was responsible for your injury, then the manufacturer may be held liable in some circumstances. If you collide with a driver from another oil company, then you may be able to file suit against the other company. The best way to find out if you are eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit is to consult with skilled oil field injury attorneys who are experienced in the industry.
Talk to New Mexico oil field injury lawyers Today
It’s always best to seek medical attention immediately following an oil field injury. These injuries can be devastating in nature without the proper medical care. The next thing you should do is consult with experienced New Mexico oil field injury lawyers. Many oil field injury lawyers will offer a free consultation and it’s best to get them involved early if you file suit. You never know what your options are until you speak with experts in the field. If you’ve been injured on the job in New Mexico oil fields, then contact New Mexico oil field injury lawyers today.