The oil and gas industry is infamous for inflicting injuries upon its workers. It is sad that despite the strict rules imposed by the government, such accidents still take place. Burns are some of the common accidents in the oilfield, especially first and second-degree burns. Third-degree burns are serious injuries and may even result in death or disfigurement.
Burned victims suffer significant losses due to their accidents. In most cases, they are forced to stay at the hospital for treatment and lose their wages. Sometimes the burns are so severe that they lose their capacity to work for a lifetime. If you or your loved one has been injured in a fire accident at the oilfield, consult with an oilfield accident lawyer today.
What are the common burn injuries that victims usually suffer?
Burns received from an oilfield can cause significant pain and disfigurement. If you have been injured, you should contact an attorney soon. Here are some examples of common burns:
- Chemical burns mostly occur when employees come in contact with dangerous chemicals and do not have safety equipment on them.
- Electrical burns are caused while using heavy machineries such as generators, switches, pumps, and circuit breakers.
- Flash burns happen quickly, as the name suggests, and usually cause first-degree burns.
- Contact burns occur due to coming in contact with a hot surface, and they differ from flash burns.
What are your rights after being burnt on the job?
You may be worried about your next step if you have been burnt while working on your job site. You may be confused about your rights as well. The good news is that injured employees are entitled to workers’ compensation insurance from their employers. The severity of your injury and the number of damages incurred determine how much compensation you ought to get.
If your employer does not have workers’ compensation or is refusing to compensate you, or if the insurance company is not offering a good amount, you can also file a personal injury lawsuit. However, remember that once you accept the workers’ comp agreement, you have the right to take any further legal action against your employer.
Why you should not accept an early offer
The insurance company is not looking out for you, despite what they like to advertise. They are happy if the money is in their pockets and they do not have to give it to someone else. Therefore, it is profitable for them to offer you a lesser amount than you deserve.
It is recommended not to accept the initial offers because they are always the lowest ones. Do not accept any amount before you discuss and calculate your damages with your attorney.