Oilfield accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Workers are exposed to numerous hazards and dangerous conditions. They work with dangerous substances and heavy machinery. You may be entitled to damages if you are injured in an oilfield accident. In this blog, our Grand Forks & Minot personal injury attorney discusses recovery after an oilfield accident in North Dakota.
Workers’ Compensation for North Dakota Oilfield Accidents
North Dakota law requires employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance for most workers. The insurance is purchased through North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance, which also administers workers’ compensation claims.
You may receive workers’ comp benefits if you are injured in an oilfield accident. The benefits available include:
- Medical benefits for reasonable and necessary treatment
- Wage loss benefits if you cannot work during your recovery, or your income is reduced during your recovery because of work restrictions
- Vocational rehabilitation to learn new skills if your injuries prevent you from returning to your job
- Permanent disability benefits if your accident results in a partial or total disabling condition
- Death benefits for family workers when an oilfield worker is killed in an accident
Report all injuries to your employer immediately. It is best to report injuries within 24 hours. Seek medical treatment for your injuries.
If you are unsure how to navigate a workers’ comp claim for an oilfield accident or your claim is denied, talk with an oilfield accident attorney as soon as possible. You must follow specific steps and meet deadlines, or you could lose your right to workers’ compensation benefits.
Third-Party Personal Injury Claims for Oilfield Accidents in North Dakota
Generally, workers cannot sue their employers when they are covered by workers’ compensation. However, if a third party caused your injury, you may recover damages for an oilfield accident. Potential parties who could be liable for an oilfield accident include:
- Equipment manufacturers
- Oilfield owners
- Third-party vendors
- Contractors and subcontractors
- The property owner
- Architects and engineers
- The drilling company
- An oilfield management company
- Maintenance service providers
The recovery for an oilfield accident could include economic damages, such as medical expenses, loss of income, and out-of-pocket expenses. You may receive compensation for ongoing medical treatment, personal care, and diminished earning capacity if you sustain a permanent impairment.
A personal injury claim for an oilfield accident can also include non-economic damages. These damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and mental anguish. You may also recover compensation for disfigurement, impairment, and decreased quality of life.
A personal injury claim for an oilfield accident often begins with an insurance claim or a claim filed with the at-fault party. However, if you do not receive a fair settlement offer, your attorney will discuss filing a personal injury lawsuit to take the claim to court.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Grand Forks & Minot Personal Injury Attorneys
Navigating the claims process for an oilfield accident can be complicated on your own. Hiring an experienced oilfield accident attorney in North Dakota can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Call Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. to schedule a free case evaluation with a Grand Forks & Minot personal injury attorney.
