Oil field explosions are one of the most serious risks associated with increased drilling production.
In fact, in the last decade, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of oil and gas wells drilled across America.
After an oil field explosion, victims and their families may be overwhelmed with the tasks at hand. However, it’s important to remember that there are people and organizations who can help.
At Stewart + Harmonson, our lawyers have represented many clients in New Mexico who have been injured or lost loved ones in oil field explosion accidents. We understand the legal complexities and deadlines associated with these cases.
In this article, we will review some of the most important steps that should be taken in the aftermath of an oil field explosion.
What to Do After an Oilfield Explosion in New Mexico
If you are near an oil site when an explosion occurs, here are some things you should do:
1. Call 911 and report the incident.
It’s important to get emergency responders on the scene as soon as possible. They can provide emergency assistance and begin to assess the damage.
2. Seek medical attention
If you or someone you love has been injured in an oil field explosion, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get checked out by a doctor. In some cases, people may not realize they’ve been injured until hours or even days after the accident. That’s why it’s so important to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible.
3. Notify your insurance company
If you have insurance, you’ll need to notify your carrier of the accident as soon as possible. In most cases, you’ll have a limited time frame in which to do so; if you wait too long, your claim may be denied. In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is 3 years. Although this may seem like a long time, it’s important to remember that the aftermath of an oil field explosion can be very complex, and there are a lot of things to take into account.
4. Hire an experienced attorney
If you or someone you love has been injured in an oil field explosion, it’s important to hire an experienced New Mexico oilfield accident attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. The attorneys at Stewart + Harmonson have experience handling these types of cases and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
5. File a claim with the oil company
If the explosion was caused by the negligence of an oil company, you may be able to file a claim against them. This can be a complicated process, so it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side who can help you through it.
6. Cooperate with investigators
If there is an investigation into the cause of the explosion, it’s important to cooperate with investigators. This includes giving them access to your property and allowing them to interview you or other witnesses. However, you should always consult with an attorney before speaking to anyone from the oil company or their insurance carrier.
7. Keep records of all expenses related to the accident
If you’ve been injured in an oil field explosion, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. It’s important to keep records of all expenses related to the accident, including receipts, invoices, and any other documentation. This will be helpful when it comes time to file a claim or lawsuit.
8. Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney
If the oil company or their insurance carrier offers you a settlement, do not sign anything until you’ve consulted with an experienced oilfield accident attorney at Stewart + Harmonson. In many cases, these offers are much lower than what you’re actually entitled to. An experienced attorney at our firm in New Mexico can help you negotiate a fair settlement.
The aftermath of an oil field explosion can be a confusing and difficult time. But by taking the right steps, you can protect yourself and your family and get the compensation you deserve.
Contact Stewart + Harmonson in New Mexico
After an oil field explosion in New Mexico, it’s important to take the right steps to protect yourself and your family. This includes getting checked out by a doctor, notifying your insurance company, and hiring an experienced attorney.
The attorneys at Stewart + Harmonson in New Mexico have experience handling these types of cases and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our firm today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and help you get started on the path to justice!