West Texas is known for its bustling oil industry and extensive transportation networks, serving as a driving force for the state’s economic growth and employment. However, this progress does not come without a cost. With more fracking operations and trucks on the road, the number of accidents in areas such as the Permian Basin has increased significantly.
What makes oilfield and trucking accidents so common?
Oilfield accidents are a common cause of injury in West Texas for a variety of reasons. The work is dangerous and often involves complex heavy-duty machinery. Typically, accidents occur because of:
- Hazardous environment: Dangerous terrain, chemical exposure, harsh Texas weather and constant drilling make for a hazardous and unstable working environment.
- Poor management: In some operations, a lack of proper supervision and the emphasis on productivity over safety and training can lead to increased human error.
- Equipment issues: Poorly maintained heavy-duty equipment is more likely to malfunction and cause potentially fatal accidents.
- Intense working conditions: Oilfield workers often work long hours, engaging in strenuous physical activity without getting many opportunities to rest and get their bearings.
However, oilfield accidents are not the only leading cause of injury and death in West Texas. The Permian Basin is reported to have a significant number of motor accidents because of the rise of fracking and oil transportation. Truck accidents often occur due to:
- Fatigue: In the Permian Basin, truck drivers often work long hours and drive long distances, leading to increased stress and exhaustion.
- Drunk driving: Substance use can be a contributing factor in collisions concerning trucks and other motor vehicles in the area.
- Improper loading: Truck drivers who overload their vehicles or do not know how to properly secure cargo are more likely to lose control of their vehicles on sharp turns.
- Poor maintenance: Drivers who neglect their trucks and forget to replace old tires and brakes are also at risk of losing control of their vehicles at high speeds.
When companies in the Permian Basin fail to invest in safety, training and maintenance, the risk of accidents increases significantly. Workers who disregard safety standards are more likely to make errors that can be prevented with more prudence.
What should you do if you suffer an injury in an accident?
In the event that you collide with a commercial vehicle such as a truck, it is important to remain calm. Do not panic. Instead, focus on making sure you and anyone else involved in the accident is safe before calling 911 and gathering as much evidence as possible. Get in contact with witnesses and take photographs of the scene.
It is important to secure evidence as soon as possible because you might not be able to win a case or receive financial compensation without proof. Getting into a collision accident with a truck is a potentially life-altering and traumatic ordeal. However, if you gather enough evidence, you can pursue compensation for any damages and lost wages.