An oilfield worker was killed on an oil rig near Gillette, Wyoming on July 7, 2016. According to the initial investigation, the rig partially collapsed, crushing 26 year-old Joshua Adams. Mr. Adams was working for Basic Energy Services, a Texas company.
The circumstances of the tragic death are still being investigated.
As oil and gas drilling continues to expand in the United States, companies have a vital responsibility to ensure that worker safety has a greater priority than production and profit. When that responsibility is neglected, explosions, fires, and other dangerous events can result. Sadly, the safety record of oil and gas companies in North Dakota and Wyoming has been abysmal for years and the fact that both states have continued to rank as two of the nation’s most dangerous workplaces has not resulted in meaningful change.
Workers who have been injured in oil field tragedies have a right to recover damages against negligent companies, including medical bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. If the misconduct is serious, the worker may have a right to recover punitive damages. Likewise, family members have a right to recover damages when a worker dies in an incident of this nature and spouses of injured workers can also have a right to recover damages for loss of consortium, care, comfort, and society.
Robert P. Schuster, P.C. has investigated explosions, fires, and other work place tragedies—and successfully held companies accountable—for decades. We have achieved unparalleled success in North Dakota, Wyoming, New Mexico, Illinois, and elsewhere by relying on basic, fundamental principles. Caring for and believing in our clients. Thorough investigation and preparation. Creative and strategic focus. Unrelenting hard work. If you or a family member has been injured in a serious oil and gas explosion or other workplace tragedy, the lawyers and staff at Robert P. Schuster, P.C., will be happy to answer your questions and assist you in any way we can. Please call us at 1.307.732.7800—or email Bob Schuster directly at bob@bobschuster.com.