The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention After an Oilfield Injury

The aftermath of an oilfield accident can be chaotic. Working on oil rigs and related fields is considered among the most dangerous jobs in the US. There is always a high likelihood of accidental injury, particularly because oilfield employers often cut corners on safety in order to lower their costs of operations.

Moreover, the legal system is confusing, and pursuing your rights to damages can seem to be a daunting task. In this scenario, you may feel as an injured victim that the decks are stacked against you and that there is no point in documenting medical care or pursuing a claim following the accident.

But immediate and proper medical attention is as much important for your safety and well-being as it is for the protection of your right to financial damages. Speak to an oilfield accident attorney following your accident for the maximum compensation you are entitled to for your injuries and losses.

Medical Records Have the Most Significant Impact on the Size of Your Compensation

Oilfield accidents and injuries can result in a release of adrenaline for the people involved. In fact, many victims enter a state of shock, which can mask early physical symptoms, such as pain. In many cases, minor initial symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying injury. This may not become apparent until a few days or even weeks later.

Unfortunately, without adequate medical attention and proper medical records to prove it, you may not be able to claim the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. This is applicable whether you file a workers’ compensation claim or personal injury claim. Your health is the most important thing and not seeing a doctor can prove to be hazardous in multiple ways.

Here are a few reasons to seek medical attention right away following an oilfield crash:

• You can be injured and not be aware of it because of the adrenaline coursing through the body. High stress and traumatic situations flood the body with endorphins, giving it an energy boost. This reaction masks pain, which means you may feel fine even when you are not. You may feel the true extent of your pain and injuries once the “adrenaline high” subsides. In addition, soft tissue injuries usually take a few days to present symptoms.
• Injuries that seem minor may develop into significant health problems if not treated in a timely manner.
• Doctors have tremendous experience working with injured employees. They will know the subtle symptoms to look out for.

Your doctor will perform a thorough examination and order tests and imaging for identifying injuries that are not readily apparent. You should get medical help even if you feel the pain is nonexistent or minor.

Stick to the Prescribed Medical Treatment

You need to seek medical attention right away following an oilfield injury. Don’t allow the cost of treatment from getting in the way of your health. An experienced attorney will be able to help you obtain the necessary compensation through workers’ compensation or personal injury claims depending on the unique circumstances surrounding your accident.

In fact, your employer is legally obligated to provide emergency treatment if you get injured on the job. An oil field injury can result in severe physical trauma, such as:

• Broken or fractured bones
• Severe burns
• Amputations
• Spinal cord injury
• Chemical exposure
• Brain injury

In case of crucial injuries, you may need to be transported to the nearest emergency room or hospital by helicopter or ambulance. In most cases, prior approval from the worker’s compensation insurance company is not required before seeking treatment.

For non-emergency injuries, the workers’ compensation insurance company may limit the choice of doctors. You need to make sure that you follow all doctor’s instructions carefully and keep up with your follow-up appointments while recovering from the injuries. You may risk causing more damage if you go back to work. Take your time to fully recover from the injury.

Know When You Need to File a Lawsuit

Workers’ compensation is designed for reimbursing injured employees for their lost wages, out-of-pocket medical costs, and disability. In most cases, the benefits paid are usually insufficient to cover the actual expenses. Fortunately, that is not the only recourse you have. For instance, you can file a direct lawsuit against the employer if they do not have worker’s compensation insurance in place.

You can also bring a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer or designer for any defective equipment or machinery. Equipment manufacturers are legally obligated to make sure their products are reasonably safe for use. You may be able to file a lawsuit against a responsible third-party, such as an independent contractor or subcontractor too.

Your attorney will look at the circumstances of your accident and various other details of the case to recommend the best course of action. They will also take some pressure off you and your family by speaking with the claims adjuster and finding proper medical providers.

Talk to a Knowledgeable Oilfield Injury Attorney – Book Your Free Consultation Today

If you or someone you love suffered an oilfield injury, the experienced attorneys at the Trainor Law Firm, LLC can review your case for free and help you determine the best legal steps to take. You can count on us to provide an honest opinion regarding the viability of your claim and the likelihood of a successful outcome. Our attorneys will aggressively pursue maximum compensation and justice for you if the claim is viable.

To set up your complimentary consultation, call 985-545-3422 or reach us online.