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Refinery Explosion Lawyer | Explosion Lawyer

Been injured in an explosion? Let our experienced attorneys at Burg Simpson handle your refinery explosion claim. Reach out for a free, no-obligation consultation today.

In the demanding oil industry, worker safety is paramount. Oil refinery explosions remain a significant concern despite rigorous safety measures, and these explosions often result in catastrophic injuries that have a lasting impact on workers and their families. At Burg Simpson, we understand the challenges faced by those in the oil industry and are committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of injured workers.

Oil refinery explosions can be life-altering, leading to severe burns, respiratory issues, and long-term disability. Our legal team at Burg Simpson is here to provide the support and representation you deserve. With extensive experience handling oil industry-related cases, we are well-equipped to tackle the complexities of oil refinery explosion cases and help you secure the best possible settlement.

We recognize that recovering from an oil refinery explosion injury can be an uphill physical and emotional battle. That's why we're here to provide guidance and stand by your side throughout the legal process. At Burg Simpson, we prioritize protecting injured workers in the oil industry and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve.

Don't face the aftermath of an oil refinery explosion alone. Contact Burg Simpson for trusted legal representation, and let our refinery explosion claims lawyers help you secure a brighter future. Call us at 888-895-2080.

How Many Oil Refineries Are in the United States?

According to EarthJustice, there are 147 oil refineries in the United States. These oil refining and processing plants produce heating, jet, diesel, and gasoline products. They also create petroleum-based products that include asphalt and lubricants.

However, even though these facilities are pivotal in meeting the world's energy demands, they pose hazards to workers and public safety, causing catastrophes such as explosions, fires, and pollution. Approximately seven million Americans live near these refineries, and they are all potentially at risk.

What Makes Refinery Accidents So Hazardous?

Refineries pose serious safety risks mainly due to the highly flammable materials, dangerous chemicals, and high-pressure equipment. The combination of these elements can lead to catastrophic events such as explosions, fires, and toxic chemical releases, creating substantial damage, injuries, and sometimes causing fatalities.

How to Prevent Oil Refinery Explosions

Organizations like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the American Petroleum Institute (API) have established safety guidelines for the oil and natural gas industry. Most plant, refinery, and pipeline explosions are preventable by taking safety measures such as:

  • Performing routine inspections
  • Conducting regular machinery repairs and maintenance
  • Keeping the work environment free from dust, debris, and flammable materials
  • Having proper ventilation to avoid gas and vapor build-up
  • Using personal protective equipment (PPE)

However, negligence, cutting corners, and lack of government oversight all contribute to creating an environment where there is a real risk of potentially deadly refinery explosions.

What Should You Do Following an Explosion Accident

Following an explosion accident, take these steps:

  • See a medical doctor
  • Report the incident to your employer
  • Take photographs of the accident scene and your injuries
  • Collect witness accounts
  • Contact an oil refinery explosion attorney

How Does Negligence Cause Oil Refinery Explosions?

Negligence is a frequent cause of refinery explosions. There are many different ways that negligence can play into these accidents. Negligence causing oil refinery explosions can include:

  • Inadequate workplace safety training
  • Poor equipment maintenance
  • Failure to follow safety procedures
  • Subpar emergency response plans

If you decide to pursue legal action, it helps to have as much documentation as possible supporting your claim. Medical records, hospital bills, witness statements, and other relevant evidence can prove valuable to your lawsuit. If you need help gathering evidence, hire a lawyer to handle all the legal legwork while you recover.

What Types of Injuries Are Caused By Explosions?

Oil refinery explosions are among the most horrific accidents that happen in our society. The people harmed in these incidents suffer a wide range of injuries causing a drastic upheaval in their lives. The most common injuries include:

  • Burns
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Hearing loss
  • Fractures
  • Respiratory injuries
  • Mental trauma

In some accidents, the victims lose their lives. The number of fatalities fluctuates from year to year. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), there were 69 fatalities in 2017.

How to Establish Liability in a Refinery Explosion Case

Liability refers to the legal responsibility for an accident and the injuries or damages resulting from the accident. Establishing liability in a refinery explosion case involves proving the responsible party was in some way negligent. The process requires an in-depth investigation of the circumstances leading up to the refinery explosion to determine negligence.

Who Can Be Held Accountable for an Explosion Injury?

Parties potentially accountable for explosion injuries include:

  • Refinery owners
  • Operators
  • Equipment manufacturers
  • Contractors

Third parties involved in the refinery's maintenance or operation could also be liable. An attorney can determine whether any parties were negligent or failed to take the proper safety precautions.

Should I Talk to an Insurance Provider?

Insurance companies are not on your side; their main focus is to generate huge profits, even if that means offering you the lowest possible settlement. If you speak to an insurer or sign the paperwork, you may unknowingly accept a lowball offer or waive your right to pursue a lawsuit. In your best interest, seek advice from a personal injury lawyer who can review the document and help you receive full compensation.

Short answer: no. Don’t speak to anyone from an insurance company or sign any documents before retaining your own legal counsel.

Should I Sign a Settlement Release?

A settlement release is a legal document that typically states the injured party agrees to release the at-fault party from any further liability or claims related to the accident in exchange for a specified amount of compensation.

Consult with a personal injury lawyer before signing a settlement release or authorization to ensure you don't inadvertently limit the compensation you can recover.

Does Workers' Compensation Cover Refinery Accidents?

Whether or not workers' comp covers refinery accidents depends on the specific circumstances and the laws in the state where the accident occurred.

In many cases, workers' compensation will cover injuries sustained in refinery accidents if the injured workers were plant workers of the refinery at the time of the accident.

However, if the injured worker was not an employee of the refinery but rather a contractor or subcontractor, the situation may be more complex. The contractor or subcontractor may or may not have workers' compensation insurance. In some instances, they may need to file a claim against the refinery's insurance policy.

How to File for Workers' Compensation Insurance for a Refinery Explosion

Workers' compensation benefits employees injured or ill due to their job. The benefits typically include medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. Filing for workers' comp insurance involves the following steps:

  • Tell your employer about the incident
  • Visit a healthcare provider
  • Complete the necessary paperwork
  • Seek advice from an attorney for assistance

Each state has its own specific procedure for filing workers comp claims. Generally, a state's workers’ compensation board or commission approves or denies the claims.

Can I Pursue a Claim Against My Employer That Doesn't Have Workers' Compensation?

If your employer lacks workers' compensation insurance, you may pursue a claim against them in court to seek compensation for your injuries.

Can You File a Wrongful Death Claim if Your Loved One Died in a Refinery Blast?

A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought by the surviving family members of a person who has died due to someone else's negligence or reckless act. In the case of a refinery blast, the surviving family members may be able to bring a wrongful death claim against the company or other responsible parties if their negligence caused the explosion and resulting death.

It is important to note that only certain family members may file a wrongful death claim, and only when certain circumstances are met. The only way to know for sure what your options are is to contact a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible.

How Do You File an Oil Refinery Accident Lawsuit?

Below are the general steps involved in filing an oil refinery accident lawsuit. If this feels overwhelming to you, which it likely will to anyone who is not a seasoned explosion attorney, we highly recommend you seek legal counsel to help you understand your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.

  • Conduct an investigation involving reviewing accident reports, interviewing witnesses, and gathering other evidence to support your claim.
  • Determine who's liable for the accident and your injuries.
  • File a complaint with the court outlining the facts of the case, the legal basis for the claim, and the compensation you seek.
  • Engage in the discovery process where the plaintiff and defendant's legal teams exchange information and evidence related to the case.
  • Attempt to negotiate a fair and full settlement with the defense’s insurance company.

If the parties cannot agree on a settlement, the case will proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will hear the evidence and decide on the matter.

Is There a Time Limit for a Refinery Explosion Investigation?

The statute of limitations for refinery disaster cases varies by state but is generally anywhere from two to six years from the date of the incident. It's best to initiate an investigation soon after the accident because evidence can get lost or destroyed over  time. To find out what the statute of limitations is for your specific refinery explosion claim, contact Burg Simpson for a free consultation.

What Money Can You Recover in a Refinery Explosion Accident Lawsuit?

Compensation in a refinery explosion accident lawsuit may be for the following expenses and damages:

Economic Damages

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost income and wages
  • Future lost earning capacity
  • Property damage or loss
  • Rehabilitation or physical therapy costs

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium or companionship
  • Disfigurement or scarring
  • Loss of life enjoyment or opportunity
  • Punitive damages

Do I Need a Refinery Accident Attorney For My Claim?

Hiring a refinery accident attorney gives you the upper hand when pursuing compensation for your injury and losses. Your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company for the best settlement. If you attempt to get compensation without legal representation, the insurance company of the liable party will do everything they can to avoid paying you, and they won’t be motivated to settle for anything reasonable since they know you are not prepared to fight.

If the final settlement amount that the insurance company offers is not agreeable to you, the next option is to file a lawsuit. Your lawyer can present a persuasive argument in a court trial to ensure you can walk away with a victory. Overall, an attorney can handle every aspect of your claim from start to finish, giving you the time to heal.

When Should I Talk to an Explosion Lawyer?

After being injured in a refinery explosion accident, don't hesitate to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. The aftermath of an oil refinery explosion can be chaotic and overwhelming, and it can be challenging to know what to do or who to turn to. However, delaying contact with a lawyer can negatively affect your case and your ability to recover the maximum financial compensation. Evidence will fade rapidly and you need to collect and preserve as much of it as you can while it still exists.

What Should I Look For in a Law Firm That Handles Gas Explosions?

Here are some factors to consider when looking for a law firm that can handle your gas explosion claim:

  • Experience with the unique legal and technical issues associated with gas explosion cases
  • Resources to access the best expert witnesses and investigative tools
  • A comprehensive legal team to build a strong case
  • Proven track record of success in winning similar cases
  • Commitment to client satisfaction
  • Contingency fee arrangement so you only pay if the firm wins your case

How Burg Simpson Can Help With Your Oil Refinery Explosion Accident Case

At Burg Simpson, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens faced by those injured in refinery accidents. Our dedicated and compassionate team of lawyers is here to help you navigate the complex legal process and secure the financial compensation you deserve. With over 40 years of experience handling refinery accident cases, we have the knowledge and resources to advocate for your rights effectively.

When you choose Burg Simpson for your refinery explosion case, you can expect personalized attention and a genuine commitment to your well-being. Our skilled attorneys will carefully investigate your accident's circumstances to identify liable parties and gather crucial evidence to build a strong case.

We recognize the critical importance of clear communication, so we will keep you informed every step of the way. Our team will analyze all aspects of your case, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

At Burg Simpson, we are passionate about holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring that victims of refinery incidents receive the justice they deserve. Our relentless approach means we won't settle for anything less than the best possible outcome for your case. This approach has helped us recover $2 billion for our clients, including $6.4 million in one gas explosion case.

Contact Our Refinery Explosion Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation at 888-895-2080

Oil refinery fire and explosion victims face immense challenges while seeking compensation during recovery. Burg Simpson, a national law firm experienced in oil refinery explosion cases, offers the support you need. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case, evaluate legal options, and receive our free guidance. Let us handle the legal complexities of your case, so you can focus on your recovery.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a refinery accident, reach out to us today. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you. Contact Burg Simpson for a free consultation (888-895-2080) and secure your deserved justice and compensation.
Burg Simpson is a prestigious national law firm helping clients across the United States.  With over 100 years of combined experience, our team stands ready to represent you and make certain you receive the compensation you deserve
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