Car Accident Lawyer in Odessa, Texas

Name: Car Accidents
Brand: The Medina Law Firm
Rating: 4.8 (12 reviews)

Car accidents are not limited to highways or rural and urban thoroughfares. They can happen in oil and gas extraction areas just as well. It's alarming to note that vehicle-related accidents account for 25 percent of oilfield worker deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention documented this figure from 2014 to 2019, a period during which 470 workers lost their lives.

Israel Medina, an experienced oilfield car accident lawyer, is well aware of these statistics. Having worked in the oil fields around Odessa, he has seen the dangers that workers face. He understands oil companies' lack of respect toward these brave men and women. Israel Medina is committed to preventing this injustice and uses his skills and experience to fight for the compensation these workers need.

Types of Car Accidents

Vehicular accidents in oil and gas extraction areas are often fatal or cause severe and debilitating injuries. Here are some types of car accidents that may happen on or around oil rigs:

Head-On Collision

Often caused by a drunk or fatigued driver, it is considered one of the most dangerous accidents, ending in a fatality.

Rear-End Collision

This common accident can occur when the driver is distracted, or the lead vehicle makes a quick stop. It is often associated with whiplash.

Vehicle Rollovers

Rollovers occur when a vehicle approaches uneven terrain, uses high speeds, makes sharp turns, or has incorrect loading. These maneuvers pose a risk to occupants due to potential crushing injuries. Roof crush occurs when the infrastructure cannot support the vehicle’s weight, the livable air supply diminishes, or traumatic brain injury occurs.

Side-Impact Collisions (T-bone)

Failure to yield, crossing paths at intersections, or poor visibility are responsible for this type of accident. Serious injury to the upper legs or pelvis of the injured party, such as a pelvic or femur fracture, can occur.

Vehicle vs. Pedestrian Accidents

This vehicular crash can happen due to limited visibility, distraction, or high activity in a work area. Many times, the pedestrian is injured or killed.

Incidents Involving Heavy Machinery

Interaction with cranes, forklifts, or other heavy equipment can cause these accidents, which have the potential of severe injuries.

Accidents Due to Mechanical Failures

These accidents can result in fatalities due to brake failure, tire blowouts or other mechanical problems.

Run-Off-Road Accidents

Due to loss of control because of speed, distraction, or adverse conditions, these accidents can result in vehicle rollovers or collisions with off-road obstacles.

Damages Available in a Car Accident

If a negligent driver injures you, compensation may be available through a personal injury claim if gross negligence occurs:

Lost Wages: If you cannot work after a car accident, you can claim compensation for the wages you would have earned. These damages include your regular salary, commissions, expected bonuses, and other job perks. Your Odessa, Texas, car accident lawyer can calculate these financial damages to ensure they compensate you.
Lost Earning Capacity: This applies if the accident affects your ability to earn an income in the future. For instance, if a young person with a promising career is injured and their earning potential diminishes, they can claim compensation for this loss. If the injury forces you to take a lower-paying job, you can claim the wages before and after the accident.
Medical Expenses: These can be substantial and include emergency care, hospital bills, doctor's fees, medications, rehabilitation services, and any modifications needed at home due to disabilities. They also cover travel expenses to and from medical appointments.
Disability: If the injury prevents you from continuing to work, you can claim the wages you would have earned until retirement. A disability claim differs from lost earning capacity as it is based on your pre-accident wages.

Other damages are more subjective and vary from case to case

Pain and Suffering: This encompasses emotional distress, anxiety, fear of driving, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These damages recognize the impact of the accident on your quality of life. In addition, a spouse who loses spousal benefits may file a loss of consortium claim.

The Medina Law Firm

attorney with client and paper work in front of both

Punitive Damages

In cases of egregious negligence, the court may award punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and are much higher than compensatory damages. The court or jury determines the amount. By understanding the different types of damages available, you can work with your Odessa, Texas, car accident lawyer to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Medina Law Firm

The Medina Law Firm is available to help you through challenging times. Call us or use our convenient message form to schedule a free case review. We will review your case, answer your questions and provide options. You can also visit our office at 2651 Kermit Highway, Odessa, Texas. We work on a contingency basis, which means you will pay no fee until we win your case. This makes it possible for everyone to have legal representation.