Choosing an Oil Field Accident Attorney
Oil fields can be extremely dangerous workplaces. After a fire, explosion, fall, or other on-the-job accident, oil field workers fortunate enough to survive may still be seriously injured and out of work while they recover.
The costs associated with being an oil field accident victim can add up quickly. While workers' compensation may provide some relief, not all employers offer the program and, even so, the available benefits are somewhat limited.
However, when an oil field worker is injured due to another person's negligence, they can take legal action and file a personal injury lawsuit to hold the at-fault party responsible. Circumstances that might require this include:
- An employer who failed to ensure the safety of the job site
- A co-worker who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- A parts manufacturer that distributed a faulty component
While compensation is never guaranteed in any case, working with an experienced and reputable oil field accident attorney can increase a victim's chances of receiving a fair financial award.
If you're considering taking legal action after being injured in an on-the-job oil field accident, finding the right attorney is essential. Here's what you need to know.
Review Experience
When choosing someone to represent you in an oil field accident case, not just any attorney will do. In addition to being knowledgeable about personal injury law in general, the attorney you select should also have experience handling oil field accident cases.
If you're not sure whether the attorney you're considering has the knowledge and experience needed for your case, feel free to ask questions about his or her legal background. Find out how long the attorney has practiced law, and specifically, how long his or her area of practice has included oil field accident cases.
Additionally, at this stage, it's wise to find out the attorney's position on settling cases out of court versus taking them all the way to trial. Some attorneys don't do trial cases, only taking on cases they feel can be settled during negotiations. Make sure to find an attorney whose goals for the case align with your own.
Case Results and Testimonials
If the attorney has experience with oil field accident cases, reviewing these results can be beneficial. Not to worry—most attorneys are more than happy to share how they've helped past clients. You can also ask to read testimonials from previous clients to see what they had to say about the attorney's services.
Fee Arrangement
Most personal injury attorneys—including those who handle oil field accident cases—work on a contingency basis. This means they don't receive a fee unless they win your case. Such an arrangement makes it possible for people who couldn't ordinarily afford an attorney to seek the justice and compensation they deserve. However, some contingency agreements contain hidden fees. Make sure to discuss the fee agreement in detail before signing it.
Rapport
Depending on the complexity, personal injury cases can take weeks, months, or even years to resolve. Partner with an attorney willing to extend the necessary time and resources, as well as someone with whom you have a good rapport. Your attorney should be compassionate and easy to talk to, puts you at ease, and whose office makes it a policy to return client phone calls in a timely manner.
A Seasoned Oil Field Accident Attorney
If you were severely hurt in an oil field accident caused by someone else's negligence, award-winning personal injury attorney Michael McGartland can provide the attentive and tireless representation you need. McGartland Law Firm can help you seek compensation for your injuries, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Contact McGartland Law Firm today to schedule an appointment for a free, no-obligation initial consultation to discuss the details of your oil field accident case with a legal professional.
