Louisiana Drilling Operations Lead to Accidents, Injuries & Fatalities

On Behalf of simien | October 23, 2014 | Oil and Gas Injuries

Drilling operations have created an economic boom as companies seek out the hundreds of workers needed to maintain their operations. Although these operations can help the local economy, workers face the risk of being injured on the job or even losing their lives.

According to the U.S. Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, since 1995 more than 370 people have lost their lives due to a pipeline accident. Historically, more than 1,400 workers have been injured in pipeline accidents. This historical trend is expected to continue and approximately 60 workers will be injured this year.

In Louisiana, six people have died since 2004 in a pipeline incident while 15 more were injured. The majority of these deaths and injuries occurred during onshore drilling operations.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that about 25 percent of fatal work injuries in the oil and gas extraction industry are caused by contact with dangerous equipment; 15 percent are due to fires and explosions.

The majority of oil and gas industry fatalities though are caused by motor vehicles; a total of 40 fatalities were caused by an actual collision while others involved the transportation of goods.

The oilfield injury lawyers at Simien & Simien understand how such accidents can impact you and your family physically, emotionally and financially. If you or a loved one has been injured while working in the oil or gas industry, you may be eligible for compensation for the damages you have suffered.