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Workers’ Compensation for Oil and Gas Workers in Pennsylvania

We've Recovered Over 200 Million Dollars for Our Clients

The oil and gas industry is essential to Pennsylvania’s economy and provides valuable opportunities for workers. However, the demanding and hazardous nature of this work often puts employees at risk for serious injuries. For those hurt on the job, Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation laws exist to provide vital financial and medical support during a difficult time.

The pay in the oil and gas industry can be rewarding, but the risks are undeniable. Workers accept the challenges of this demanding work, but that does not mean they have to face the aftermath of an injury alone. If you are injured on the job, it’s important to remember that you have rights.

At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our top-rated attorneys provide quality legal assistance in Workers’ Compensation for Oil and Gas Workers in Pennsylvania. Our team is prepared to take on oil companies and their insurers to help you pursue the full benefits you are entitled to under workers’ compensation. If a third party contributed to your injury, we are also ready to explore additional legal options to support your recovery.

Your work is tough, but you don’t have to take on this fight alone. Contact us today at (724) 658-8535 for a free consultation with one of our experienced Western Pennsylvania oil field and drilling rig accident lawyers. Let us help you secure what you need to rebuild and move forward.

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Your Rights Under Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Laws

In Pennsylvania, workers injured in the oil and gas industry are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. These benefits aim to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with a workplace injury. Workers’ compensation laws also protect employees from retaliation if they report an injury or file a claim.

Key points about your rights under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation laws:

  • You have 120 days from the date of the injury to report it to your employer. Failing to report in time could jeopardize your claim.
  • Once reported, employers are required to provide medical treatment coverage for work-related injuries.
  • Wage loss benefits may be available if your injury prevents you from returning to work temporarily or permanently.
  • Workers’ compensation benefits are provided on a no-fault basis, meaning you can seek compensation even if the accident was partially caused by your actions.

These rights are critical, but the claims process can be challenging due to employer pushback or disputes over the severity of the injury.

Tackling the workers’ compensation system as an oil and gas worker can be difficult for several reasons. Employers and insurance companies may dispute claims to protect their financial interests, leaving injured workers in a vulnerable position.

Some of the most common challenges include:

  • Employer Misclassification: In some cases, workers are misclassified as independent contractors, which can deny them access to workers’ compensation benefits.
  • Pressure to Return to Work: Injured workers may face pressure to return to their jobs before they have fully recovered, risking further injury.
  • Disputes Over Injury Severity: Employers or insurers may downplay the severity of injuries or claim they were not work-related to reduce or deny benefits.
  • Delays in Receiving Benefits: Workers may experience delays in receiving lost wages or medical benefits, putting additional financial strain on their families.

Careful consideration of these factors can help you avoid these pitfalls and understand your rights, ensuring that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to under Pennsylvania law.

Western Pennsylvania Oil Field and Drilling Rig Injury Lawyers at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C.

At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our team of dedicated attorneys brings unparalleled expertise and commitment to representing victims of oil field and drilling rig accidents in Western Pennsylvania. Our firm’s legacy, spanning over 90 years, is built on a foundation of trust, experience, and a relentless pursuit of justice for our clients.

<h3>Lawrence M. Kelly</h3>

Lawrence M. Kelly

Partner

Attorney Lawrence M. Kelly is a distinguished leader in personal injury law, with a career marked by significant achievements and accolades:

  • Board-Certified Civil Trial Specialist: Certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a distinction held by only about 2,000 practicing attorneys nationwide.
  • Leadership Roles: Served as Past President of the Western Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association and is the current President of the Pennsylvania Association for Justice as of 2024.
  • Disciplinary Board Member: Appointed to the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania from 2013 to 2018.
  • Consistent Recognition: Named among Pennsylvania Super Lawyers from 2006 through 2024 and featured in the Top 50: Pittsburgh Super Lawyers list from 2019 to 2024.
  • Top Honors: Recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the American Trial Lawyers Association in 2024 and listed among the Top 10 Personal Injury Attorneys in Pennsylvania by Attorney and Practice Magazine the same year.
<h3>Joseph A. George</h3>

Joseph A. George

Partner

Attorney Joseph A. George offers extensive experience and a steadfast dedication to personal injury law:

  • Professional Memberships: Active member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association, and the American Association for Justice.
  • Areas of Practice: Focuses on personal injury, motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, and workers’ compensation cases.
  • Peer Recognition: Consistently selected for inclusion in the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list from 2018 through 2024.
  • AV Preeminent Rating: Holds the prestigious AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest level of professional excellence.

At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our attorneys' extensive credentials and unwavering commitment to their clients underscore their trustworthiness, experience, expertise, and authoritativeness in handling complex oil field and drilling rig accident cases.

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Why You Need a Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Lawyer for Oil and Gas Injuries

The demanding and hazardous nature of oil and gas work can make recovering from an on-the-job injury a stressful and overwhelming experience. Seeking workers’ compensation benefits may feel like an uphill battle, especially when disputes arise or the process becomes complicated. Having legal representation can ease that burden, offering support and advocacy to help you secure the benefits you need to recover and care for your family.

An attorney can:

  • Protect Your Rights: Make sure your claim is handled with fairness and that your employer or insurance company does not infringe upon your rights.
  • Assist With Documentation: Help gather and organize crucial evidence, such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, to build a strong case.
  • Advocate for Full Benefits: Work to pursue the range of benefits you deserve, including wage loss, medical coverage, and disability benefits if applicable.
  • Pursue Additional Compensation: If a third party, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, contributed to your injury, an attorney can assist in filing a claim against them to seek additional compensation.

Having a lawyer on your side can make a meaningful difference in securing the financial and medical support you need to focus on your recovery. 

At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., we understand the unique risks oil and gas workers face and the challenges they encounter when pursuing workers’ compensation benefits. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights, resolving disputes, and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

If you’re struggling to obtain the benefits you’re entitled to after a workplace injury, call us today at (724) 658-8535 for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal process so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Reason for Hiring an AttorneyDescription
Protecting Your RightsEnsures that your claim is fairly handled and prevents employers or insurers from violating your rights.
Assisting With DocumentationHelps collect and organize essential evidence like medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
Advocating for Full BenefitsWorks to secure all entitled benefits, including wage loss, medical expenses, and disability benefits if applicable.
Pursuing Additional CompensationAssists in filing claims against third parties (e.g., contractors, equipment manufacturers) responsible for the injury.

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We only work with clients and cases we truly believe in, we take your case because we genuinely believe in both you and your case’s importance.

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Common Oil and Gas Industry Injuries Covered Under Workers’ Compensation

Workers in Pennsylvania’s oil and gas industry face various hazards that can lead to serious injuries. These injuries, often caused by heavy equipment, hazardous substances, and high-risk work environments, are typically covered under workers’ compensation laws.  

The use of heavy machinery and equipment in oil and gas operations increases the likelihood of severe physical injuries. Workers may experience crushing injuries or amputations when caught between machinery, struck by falling objects, or pinned by equipment.

Crushing injuries can result in extensive tissue damage, broken bones, or even permanent disabilities. Amputations, whether partial or complete, are life-altering and often require significant medical care and prosthetic devices. Fractures are also common and can range from simple breaks to complex injuries requiring surgery.

Workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania cover the medical treatment and rehabilitation necessary for these injuries, as well as wage loss benefits during recovery.

Burn injuries are a frequent risk in oil and gas operations due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, and high-temperature equipment. Fires and explosions can occur suddenly, leading to severe burns, disfigurement, or even fatal injuries.

Burn injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term care. Beyond the physical pain, these injuries can lead to emotional trauma and affect a worker’s ability to return to physically demanding jobs.

Pennsylvania workers’ compensation laws provide coverage for the medical expenses associated with burn injuries and financial assistance for workers unable to perform their job duties during recovery.

Oil and gas workers are frequently exposed to hazardous chemicals, such as benzene and silica dust, which can cause long-term health issues. Prolonged exposure to these substances may lead to chronic respiratory conditions, including silicosis—a lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica particles.

Silicosis can cause breathing difficulties, fatigue, and permanent lung damage, significantly impacting a worker’s quality of life. Similarly, exposure to benzene has been linked to serious illnesses, such as leukemia and other cancers.

Under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation laws, oil and gas workers diagnosed with occupational illnesses like silicosis or chemical exposure-related conditions are entitled to medical coverage and related benefits. This may include ongoing care and compensation for lost wages due to the inability to work.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a significant risk in oil and gas operations, often resulting from falls, equipment malfunctions, or being struck by heavy objects. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.

Hearing loss is another common injury in the industry, caused by prolonged exposure to high noise levels from drilling equipment, machinery, and explosions. Over time, workers may suffer partial or complete hearing loss, which can affect their ability to perform their job and impact daily life.

Workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania cover the costs of medical treatment for these injuries, including therapy, assistive devices like hearing aids, and compensation for lost earning capacity if the worker cannot return to their previous role.

Injuries in the oil and gas industry can be severe, life-altering, and financially burdensome. Workers’ compensation provides vital support to injured employees, helping them access medical care and financial benefits while they recover. If you or a loved one has experienced any of these injuries while working in Pennsylvania’s oil and gas industry, Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. is here to help.

Contact our team today at (724) 658-8535 for a free consultation. Our attorneys are dedicated to standing up for injured workers and helping them secure the benefits they deserve. 

Dedicated Support for Western Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Workers

Our Family is Here to Help Yours

If you’ve been injured while working on an oil field or drilling rig in Western Pennsylvania, you don’t have to face the challenges of pursuing workers’ compensation or additional legal claims alone. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of a workplace injury can be overwhelming, but you have rights, and help is available.

At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., we are dedicated to helping injured oil and gas workers seek the compensation they need to recover and move forward. Whether it’s advocating for your workers’ compensation benefits or pursuing additional claims against responsible third parties, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Contact us today at (724) 658-8535 for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal process so you can focus on healing and providing for your family. We are ready to fight for you.

Learn More

The oil and gas industry involves inherently high-risk environments where accidents can occur due to a variety of factors. Many injuries stem from preventable causes, often linked to equipment, workplace conditions, or inadequate safety practices. 

  • Inadequate working platforms: These platforms may fail to support the heavy machinery adequately due to insufficient bearing strength or improper construction, leading to machinery instability and potential overturns.
  • Improper use of equipment: Operators might use drill rigs for purposes other than drilling, such as lifting heavy objects with the auxiliary winch, which goes against manufacturer guidelines. This misuse can lead to catastrophic failures, particularly when the equipment is not designed to handle such loads.
  • Inadequate training: Workers must receive in-depth training to safely operate complex machinery. However, during periods of rapid industry growth, new hires might not receive the necessary training to handle the demanding and hazardous conditions of oil and gas drilling, leaving them unprepared for the field’s challenges.
  • Human error: This can include errors in judgment, misuse of equipment, or failure to follow safety protocols. Fatigue from long working hours can exacerbate these issues, as tired workers are more likely to make mistakes.
  • Environmental conditions and mechanical failure: Slippery conditions, uneven terrain, and unexpected subsurface anomalies such as old utilities or voids can destabilize heavy equipment. Furthermore, mechanical failure due to inadequate maintenance or wear and tear can lead to unanticipated breakdowns during operations.

Under Pennsylvania law, oil field companies must uphold rigorous safety protocols, prioritize thorough training, and maintain equipment to protect workers. When accidents happen, injured workers have legal rights, including access to workers’ compensation and the option to pursue personal injury claims against liable parties. This legal framework supports the rights of workers and promotes a safety culture within the drilling industry.

The causes of injuries in Pennsylvania’s oil and gas industry highlight the hazardous conditions workers face daily. When accidents happen, injured workers deserve access to the benefits they need to recover and protect their families. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our attorneys are committed to helping injured oil and gas workers secure the compensation they are entitled to under the law.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to machinery failures, falls, or environmental hazards, contact us today at (724) 658-8535 for a free consultation. Let us provide the legal support you need to focus on your recovery while we work to protect your rights.

In Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation operates on a no-fault basis, meaning injured workers can receive benefits without needing to prove fault against their employer. However, this system also limits the ability to directly sue employers or coworkers, even if their actions contributed to the accident or created a hazardous work environment. While this provides a streamlined path to benefits, it does not account for all potential sources of liability in a drilling rig accident.

In many cases, third parties—such as contractors, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or site managers—may hold responsibility for the conditions or actions that led to the accident. Workers injured in drilling rig accidents may have the right to pursue a third-party lawsuit against these entities in addition to their workers’ compensation claims.

Drilling rig accidents often involve multiple parties, and identifying who is responsible can be a complex process. While workers’ compensation benefits provide essential support, third-party lawsuits may offer additional relief for injured workers and their families. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our attorneys have the experience and resources to investigate your case thoroughly, pursue all avenues of compensation, and help you move forward.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drilling rig accident, schedule a free consultation today. We are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Experiencing a workplace injury in the oil and gas industry can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately after the incident is critical to protecting your rights under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation laws. From reporting the injury to documenting evidence, these actions can help strengthen your claim and ensure access to the benefits you need.

One of the most important actions is promptly reporting your injury to your employer. While Pennsylvania allows up to 120 days to report a workplace injury, notifying your employer as soon as possible can help avoid delays or disputes over how and when the injury occurred. Providing written notice is also recommended to document the circumstances clearly.

Seeking medical attention is another critical step. Even if the injury seems minor, visiting a qualified medical provider is essential for both your health and your workers’ compensation claim. Pennsylvania law may require you to use an employer-designated medical provider for the first 90 days of treatment. Following your prescribed treatment plan and keeping detailed records of your medical visits and diagnoses can strengthen your claim and support your recovery.

Additionally, documenting the details of your accident can play a key role in your case. Take photos of your injuries and the accident site, gather workplace reports, and keep records of any expenses related to your injury, including medical costs and lost wages. These records can help counter any disputes and build a stronger claim.

If you need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim or face challenges from your employer or their insurance company, the team at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. is ready to support you.

Call us today at (724) 658-8535 for a free consultation. Let us focus on securing the benefits you need while you focus on your recovery.