Oil and gas is big business and big news. When it comes to media attention, Americans are frequently captivated by gas prices, which most of the time are volatile and seemingly unpredictable. As consumers, we tend to pay close attention to gas and oil prices because we have to deal with them ourselves every time we hit the pumps to fill up. What seems to sometimes slip through the cracks of our attention, however, are the many disasters, injuries, and deaths that occur within the oil and gas industry. These events may not directly impact the lives of most Americans, but for injured workers and their families, few experiences in life can be as devastating.

The oil and gas industry is historically and statistically one of the most dangerous employment sectors in the country. Oilfield explosions, refinery accidents, and oil rig catastrophes may regularly make the news as large, disastrous events, but each and every day, workers in this industry face numerous risks and hazards. From the dangers of working with heavy machinery and toxic chemicals to the hazards created by negligent employers, workplace accidents can be caused by a number of factors. According to statistics compiled and published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, these accidents, unfortunately, happen all the time.

When accidents do happen, injuries and fatalities often result. According to statistics, the three most common causes of death in the oil and gas industry include:

• Transportation incidents, most of which involved highway auto accidents
• Accidents involving objects and equipment
• Fires and explosions

Oil & Gas Industry Accident Statistics

Whether it is drilling, production, or transportation, nearly all sectors of the oil and gas industry reflect high rates of workplace accidents, injuries, and fatalities. For all industries, the average rate of work-related injury and illness per 100 full-time workers is roughly 4.2. In only the drilling sector of the oil and gas industry, the rate is higher and averages anywhere from 4.5 to 6.8 in any given year. In terms of numbers of nonfatal oil and gas injuries (which only include the drilling sector) there were more than 4,700 in 2005 alone.

Advocating for Accident Victims & Families in Houston

As Texas and the Gulf Coast is the heart of our nation's oil and gas industry, it is not uncommon for local residents to have a family member, a friend, a neighbor, or an acquaintance they know has suffered harm while working in this industry. At The Daspit Law Firm, our legal team has seen the devastating consequences of these accidents first-hand and we know that victims and families depend on full and fair compensation as they navigate the road to recovery.

If you or someone you know has recently suffered damages during a work-related accident in the oil and gas industry, Attorney John Daspit is prepared to use his extensive experience in this field to pursue justice and fair compensation on your behalf. Learn more about your rights and how our firm can help by contacting a Houston personal injury lawyer from The Daspit Law Firm at (888) 273-1045.

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