Oilfield work is known to be one of the most hazardous occupations in the United States and the rest of the world. However, oilfield shales have substantially increased in recent years in many states, such as Texas, North Dakota, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania.
Texas is considered the largest producer of crude oil and natural gas in the nation. Unfortunately, injuries and fatalities occur frequently in the Permian Basin and the Eagle Ford Shale, as well as other shale locations throughout the lone star state.
Eagle Ford Shale in Texas
The Eagle Ford Shale located in the southern region of Texas covers over 11,000 square miles. It is the largest oilfield discovery in the U.S. in the last 40 years and currently the most active gas formation in the globe. Since the shale produces more than 4,000 barrels of oil per day, the level of production is expected to last and/or increase for many years to come, attracting oil companies to generate nearly 40,000 new jobs in the area.
Despite the increase in jobs and economic activity in Texas, oilfield accidents in the area have skyrocketed because of issues such as lack of training or supervision. Furthermore, due to the inadequate rural infrastructure for the large influx of commercial vehicles, motor vehicle accidents in the area have increased as well.
Bakken Shale in North Dakota
North Dakota has also made a significant impact in the oil and gas industry. Located in eastern Montano and western North Dakota, the Bakken Shale formation is a hotbed of drilling activity. Since 1953, this shale has been producing oil.
However, dangerous drilling practices and commercial truck traffic have jeopardized the safety of extracting and hauling oil from this formation. The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued several safety alerts, declaring that crude oil extracted from this area is extremely volatile.
Let Our San Antonio Oilfield Accidents Lawyer Help You
Oilfield workers have an important, but dangerous, job to do. Employees working in Texas shales and shale formations throughout the country are constantly at risk of suffering an injury due to the negligent actions of the oil company. If you have sustained an injury caused by an oilfield accident, let The Law Office of George P. Escobedo & Associates, PLLC help you recover the financial compensation you need to pay for your medical bills, loss of income, as well as pain and suffering.
Contact us and schedule a consultation today.