Industrial & Oilfield Injuries: When Workers Can Sue in Temple 

Temple and the surrounding Bell County area are home to numerous industrial and oilfield operations. These industries provide critical jobs and support many Texas families, but they also come with significant risks. Workers can be exposed to dangerous conditions that may result in serious, sometimes life-changing injuries. 

   

At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we believe it is essential for injured workers to understand their legal rights fully. Knowing your options after a workplace injury is vital not only to protect your health but also to secure your financial future. Our team is committed to standing by your side, helping you navigate complex workers’ compensation claims or third-party injury lawsuits, and fighting to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve. 

 

Common Injuries Sustained in Industrial and Oilfield Work 

Workers in industrial plants, oil rigs, and related fields in Temple often face hazardous conditions. Some of the most common injuries we see include: 

   

• Burns and explosions from flammable chemicals or equipment 
• Crush injuries caused by heavy machinery or falling objects 
• Amputations resulting from improper safety protocols 
• Spinal injuries and fractures due to falls or vehicle accidents 
• Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud machinery 
• Respiratory diseases caused by inhaling toxic fumes or dust 
• Chemical exposure leading to skin conditions or poisoning 

 

The Long-Term Recovery Process 

Many industrial injuries result in a long and challenging recovery that can span months or even years. Workers often require multiple surgeries, extensive physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatment to manage pain and regain function. Unfortunately, some never fully recover and must face chronic pain, permanent disabilities, or a significantly reduced ability to work, which can dramatically impact their quality of life and financial stability. 

   

The emotional and psychological toll of such injuries is equally significant. Many injured workers experience mental health challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The struggle to adapt to new limitations, coupled with concerns about medical bills, lost wages, and the future, can be overwhelming. Without strong legal guidance and comprehensive medical support, navigating these complex issues becomes even more difficult. 

   

At SYT, we understand that recovery is about more than just physical healing, it’s about rebuilding your life. We work closely with medical experts, therapists, and rehabilitation specialists to understand the care you need now and in the future, ensuring you receive adequate compensation.   

 

Can You Sue Your Employer in Texas? 

In Texas, not all employers carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer is a non-subscriber, meaning they’ve opted out of the state workers' comp system, you may have the right to sue them directly for negligence. 

   

In these cases, the protections typically afforded to employers under workers’ comp law do not apply. That means they can be held fully liable for your injuries, including pain and suffering and other non-economic damages. 

   

Our team can help determine your employer’s status and advise you on the best legal path forward. 

   

When Workers’ Compensation Doesn’t Cover All Damages 

Even if your employer does carry workers’ compensation, benefits may be limited. While you may receive medical care and partial wage replacement, workers’ comp usually does not cover: 

   

• Pain and suffering 
• Mental anguish 
• Future lost wages 
• Full loss of earning capacity 

   

If a third party caused your injury, or if your employer doesn’t offer workers’ compensation at all, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. This path allows you to seek broader compensation beyond the limits of workers’ compensation. 

   

At SYT, we help you understand your rights and pursue the strongest possible case, whether that means working within the workers’ comp system or pursuing a lawsuit for maximum damages. 

 

Who Else Can You Sue After an Industrial or Oilfield Injury in Temple? 

Determining liability after an industrial or oilfield injury can be complex. While your employer may bear responsibility, they are often not the only liable party. 

   

Many oilfield and industrial accidents involve third-party liability claims, which means you can sue entities beyond your direct employer. Common defendants in these lawsuits include: 

 

• Subcontractors or third-party companies working on-site 
• Equipment manufacturers or suppliers of faulty machinery 
• Drilling contractors are responsible for site safety. 
• Trucking and transportation companies moving personnel or equipment 
• Site supervisors or safety managers who neglected safety protocols 
• Property owners or operators, if unsafe conditions contributed to your injury 
• Because these worksites involve multiple contractors and vendors, identifying all responsible parties is key to maximizing your compensation. 

   

At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we conduct detailed investigations into the circumstances of your accident. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with industry experts to hold every responsible party accountable. 

   

As proud members of the Temple and Bell County community, we not only fight for the rights of injured workers, but we also advocate for safer working environments across Texas. 

 

Compensation After an Oilfield or Industrial Accident in Temple, Texas 

When you're injured on the job in a high-risk environment like an oilfield, refinery, or industrial site, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be enormous. Texas law gives you the right to pursue compensation for the harm you've suffered, especially if the accident was caused by negligence or unsafe working conditions. 

   

Whether you're filing a personal injury lawsuit or a claim against a third party, here are the types of damages you may be entitled to recover: 

   

Economic Damages 

These cover direct financial losses caused by the injury: 

• Medical expenses: Hospitalization, surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and any ongoing care 
• Lost wages: Income you missed due to time off work 
• Loss of future earning capacity: If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job or working at all 
• Rehabilitation or vocational retraining costs 
• Out-of-pocket expenses: Including transportation, medical equipment, or home modifications 

   

Non-Economic Damages 

These address the pain and personal suffering you experience: 

• Physical pain and suffering 
• Mental anguish: Including anxiety, PTSD, and depression 
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injury impacts your ability to engage in hobbies, family activities, or daily living 
• Loss of consortium: For spouses and loved ones who’ve lost companionship, care, or intimacy due to your injuries 

   

Punitive Damages (in Gross Negligence Cases) 

If your injury was caused by gross negligence, you may also be awarded punitive damages. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct by others. 

 

Gross Negligence Claims in Texas Oilfield Accidents: Why They Matter 

In oilfield and industrial accident cases, not all negligence is treated equally under Texas law. While ordinary negligence involves failing to exercise reasonable care, gross negligence is a far more serious form of misconduct. It represents an extreme departure from accepted safety standards and shows a reckless disregard for the well-being and lives of others. 

   

What Constitutes Gross Negligence? 

   

Gross negligence goes well beyond simple mistakes or accidents. It includes: 

• Willful disregard for known hazards 
• Conscious indifference to worker safety 
• Failure to follow clear safety regulations and industry standards despite awareness of the risks 
• Ignoring repeated warnings or safety violations 
• Taking dangerous shortcuts that put workers at serious risk 

   

For instance, an oilfield company that knowingly uses defective equipment without repairs or neglects to enforce mandatory safety protocols despite multiple incidents could be found grossly negligent. 

   

The distinction between ordinary and gross negligence is critical because Texas law permits victims to seek punitive damages when gross negligence is proven. Punitive damages serve to punish reckless behavior and deter similar misconduct in the future. 

   

These damages go beyond covering medical expenses or lost wages; they hold negligent companies financially accountable for conduct that flagrantly endangers workers’ lives. In the high-risk environment of oilfields, punitive damages can provide essential leverage to promote safer workplaces and protect employees. 

 

Don’t Settle for Less: Get the Full Compensation You Deserve 

If you or a loved one has suffered an industrial or oilfield injury in Temple, Texas, don’t assume workers’ compensation is your only option. While it may cover basic medical care and a portion of lost wages, it often falls short of addressing the full scope of your pain, suffering, and long-term financial needs. A personal injury lawsuit can help you pursue more complete compensation, including damages for emotional distress, future lost income, and more. 

   

At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we have deep experience handling complex oilfield and industrial injury cases throughout Central Texas. We understand how these industries operate, who may be liable, and how to build a strong case even in challenging circumstances. 

   

Our legal team is ready to evaluate your case for free. Fill out our online form today to get started.