The Oil and Gas Watch News recently highlighted a concerning statistic: at least 45 chemical disasters shook the US in 2024. Chemical disasters, including refinery explosions, can cause property damage, injuries, and fatalities.
You may think an oil refinery explosion happens only in that instance, but the aftermath of the event affects many individuals’ futures. In Texas, where oil and gas work is common, refinery workers and nearby residents face real risks when safety is not taken seriously. Medical bills, lost work, and emotional stress can pile up fast.
But you don’t have to face this alone. A Texas oil refinery explosion attorney who understands oil refinery accidents can help you find out what caused the explosion, who is responsible, and how to get the support and money you need to recover.
Explore your legal options and how an experienced attorney can help you move forward.
Understanding Your Rights as a Victim
Victims have the right to cope. Your right to medical care for injuries must be documented. Gather medical records, photos, and witness testimony to support your case.
You have the right to be informed about the incident and potential future health issues related to it. You have the right to appeal the refinery’s negligence to the courts.
According to Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor, if the death of your loved one was caused by someone else’s negligence, carelessness, or failure to follow safety rules, the accident can lead to wrongful death, and this also applies to oil refinery explosions.
You should seek the help of legal counsel with experience in industrial accidents who can guide you through the processes and assist in protecting your rights. Begin assisting in your recovery.
Types of Compensation Available
Once you have learned your rights as a victim, it is useful to get to know the kind of compensation you are entitled to after an oil refinery explosion.
Medical expenses may cover treatments for injuries received in the incident. Lost wages may also be granted, covering income lost while you recover.
If a long-term disability comes about, there follows compensation for lost earnings; damages for pain and suffering would be those for the distress suffered by the victim.
In rare circumstances, punitive damages could apply, aiming to punish the culpable party for its negligent conduct; they exist to punish grossly negligent conduct.
By documenting all relevant information, you will be able to establish evidence to support your claim and receive compensation.
The Role of Legal Representation
The difference a trusted oil refinery explosion lawyer can make is massive. Such a lawyer understands and maneuvers through oil regulations. They gather the evidence, interview witnesses, and build a case on your behalf.
Based on their areas of practice, personal injury lawyers will ensure that you collect all forms of compensation available for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In opposition to insurance companies, they protect your interests instead of going along with them for a lower amount of compensation.
Having a legal expert by your side somehow alleviates the stress off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Their expertise in handling complex legal matters ensures that you do not face this challenging battle alone.
Steps to Take After an Explosion
An immediate priority would be the safety of everyone from an explosion. Survey the environment and evacuate with all speed, avoiding smoke and debris.
If needed, a call to emergency services should be made to inform them about the incident. Anyone injured during the incident must receive medical attention.
Photographic evidence should be taken with notes describing the events, if applicable. Try to obtain the contact information of any witnesses, since their testimony might be critical later on.
Report the accident to your employer or the appropriate authorities. Do not talk about the explosion to others besides authorities, because anything said may affect the future legal claims pursued.
Keep files on medical treatment received and expenses incurred, as they will be useful if you ever decide to take legal action.
Resources for Victims and Their Families
You must check your safety, and depending on the situation, report the explosion. Keep in mind that there is help for you and your family.
Local support groups may offer emotional support and be able to refer you to others facing similar events. Occasionally, counselors in hospitals and clinics offer assistance with mental health issues.
Legal aid and charities like the Red Cross can help you claim compensation and provide financial assistance for medical expenses and temporary housing.
Reach out to your community; they can offer support to you. You are not alone; many people and services stand ready for you in recovery.
