Can I Sue If I was Injured on an Oil Field in Texas?

 Posted on December 15, 2025 in Personal Injury

The Permian Basin produces millions of barrels of oil each day, and thousands of workers across West Texas face hazards that can lead to serious injuries. If you suffered an injury on the job in an oil field, pursue a  workers’ compensation claim or file a lawsuit, depending on the employer’s status and who caused the injury.

As of December 2025, Texas law still allows injured workers to file lawsuits against nonsubscriber employers and third parties whose negligence contributed to an accident.

Oil fields move quickly. Heavy machinery, busy crews, and long shifts create situations where injuries can occur in seconds. Your priority is medical care, but once you are stable, it is important to learn how the law may protect you. Our Midland, TX personal injury lawyers can help you understand who may be responsible.

Who Can Be Held Liable for an Oil Field Accident in Texas?

Many oil field projects involve several companies working on the same site. Because of this, liability can fall on more than one party. Responsibility may depend on who managed the site, who maintained the equipment, or who set the safety procedures.

If a contractor handled daily operations and did not follow proper safety standards, the contractor may be responsible. If a piece of equipment malfunctioned, the manufacturer may be part of the claim. Each situation requires a careful investigation to understand what happened and why.

Can I Sue My Employer for an Oil Field Injury in Texas?

Texas does not require all employers to carry workers' compensation insurance. Employers who do not carry it are called nonsubscribers. If your employer is a nonsubscriber, you may be able to file a lawsuit directly against them. Under Texas Labor Code Section 406.033, nonsubscribers cannot use certain defenses that other employers rely on, which may strengthen an injured worker's case.

If your employer does carry workers' compensation, then you usually cannot sue them directly. Instead, you receive benefits through the workers' compensation system. These benefits help with medical care and are part of your lost wages.

Even so, you may still have a claim against a third party whose actions contributed to the incident. For example, if a hydraulic lift failed because of a design flaw, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer even if you cannot sue your employer.

What Evidence Helps Prove an Oil Field Injury Claim?

Helpful documentation for an oil field injury case may include:

• Medical records showing the extent of your injuries and treatment

• Photos or videos of the site taken shortly after the incident

• Safety logs or incident reports filed by your employer

• Witness statements from coworkers who saw what happened

• Equipment maintenance records that show whether machinery was properly serviced

• OSHA inspection results or violation notices

Oil field sites often change quickly as crews move equipment and open or close work areas. Because of this, early documentation can make a major difference in how a claim develops. When you gather evidence fast, it becomes easier to understand the sequence of events.

What Damages Can You Recover After an Oil Field Injury in Texas?

Oil field injuries can affect every area of life. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, reduced earning capacity, future medical needs, and pain and suffering. In tragic cases involving a death, families may pursue wrongful death damages under the Texas Wrongful Death Act.

Recovery can take time, and many types of injuries can limit a worker's ability to return to heavy labor. A lawyer can help you understand the long-term impact of the injury and the compensation that may be available.

Schedule a Free Consultation With an Austin, TX Oil Field Injury Attorney

At Morales Law Office, Attorneys at Law, PLLC., we believe that every injured person deserves an advocate who will protect their rights and guide them through the legal process. Our team offers aggressive and personal representation. If you need help after an oil field injury, our Midland, TX personal injury lawyers are ready to stand with you. Call 512-474-2222 today to schedule your free consultation. Hablamos Español.