Largest Oil Rig Explosions in U.S. and Texas History
The oil industry is undoubtedly one of the most dangerous to work in. Oil rig workers face constant exposure to hazards, including explosions. With Texas accounting for more than half of the country’s rigs, it’s essential to understand what causes these explosions and what rights workers have in the aftermath.
This article will explore some of the most significant oil rig explosions in U.S. history and touch on who can be held accountable for these harrowing incidents.
Oil Rig Explosions That Rocked the Country
While there are only a few explosions per year, many of them result in multiple fatalities and injuries. Here are some of the worst incidents that have occurred on oil rigs in Texas and throughout the United States.
Deepwater Horizon (2010)
On April 20, 2010, a massive oil rig explosion took place on British Petroleum’s Deepwater Horizon drilling platform located in the Gulf of Mexico.
The explosion not only caused millions of barrels of oil to spill into the water but also killed 11 workers and injured 17 others. An investigation concluded that the causes were a mix of technical failures and inadequate risk management.
Loving County (2014)
On April 30, 2014, a Texas oil rig explosion killed two oil well workers and injured nine others. The incident occurred due to a buildup of pressure during a wellhead replacement. Because the explosion happened in a remote area, one worker had to drive six miles to call for help. Later the same year, five oil rig workers were injured in another explosion near Cotulla, Texas.
Mason Well Service (2015)
In 2015, three oil rig employees were killed after an explosion on a rig owned by Mason Well Service of Odessa. The incident occurred while workers were attempting to install a blowout preventer.
Unfortunately, investigations found that the deaths may have been preventable, as the company was fined for safety violations, including improper employee gear and failure to put a stop to unsafe actions.
Jasper County (2019)
On August 9, 2019, four workers were injured in an explosion on a Jeffcoat Production Company rig. While no official cause was ever stated, some suggested that the oil rig that exploded may have had natural gas seeping in from a well, causing a pump to explode.
The Wendland Well (2020)
In January of 2020, Chesapeake Energy’s Wendland Well experienced a blowout that resulted in the deaths of three people and one serious injury. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board’s investigation determined inadequate planning and well-control practices, as well as a lack of federal regulatory safety requirements, to be the incident’s main causes.
What Happens To Workers When A Rig Explodes?
Texas oil rig explosions are far from your average workplace accident. Some workers don’t make it out alive.
Others may sustain serious injuries, including:
- Burns
- Limb loss
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
These explosions and associated injuries can have a number of causes—perhaps the equipment failed, or maybe the company didn’t follow safety regulations. Either way, they’re often devastating to families, causing acute physical, financial, and emotional damage.
What to Do If You’re Injured on an Oil Rig
If you’ve been hurt while working on an oil rig, seeking medical treatment should be your top priority. Once you’ve been evaluated by a medical professional, contact a reputable attorney for help.
Navigating the aftermath of a work injury can be complex, especially when it comes to filing a workers’ compensation claim or bringing a case against your employer. A knowledgeable attorney can not only assist you in understanding the law but also help you exercise your rights as you seek to get your life back on track.
Contact The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Oil rig explosions are tragic reminders of the dangers oilfield workers face every day. While no amount of money can undo the harm caused, injured workers and their families deserve justice and support. By holding negligent companies accountable, victims can pursue compensation to cover medical care, lost income, and the long-term impact of these devastating incidents.
If you or a loved one has been affected by an oil rig accident, speaking with an experienced attorney is the first step toward protecting your future.
Please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers to get a free initial consultation today. We have offices in Friendswood and Galveston, Texas:
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Galveston Office
2101 Mechanic St. Suite 253
Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 207-9299
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Friendswood Office
312 S. Friendswood Dr.
Friendswood, TX 77546
281-992-8633
