Big Spring Refinery Accident Attorneys

Our Texas Refinery Accident Firm Brings the Fight Injured Workers Deserve

America's economy is powered by refineries that process crude oil into fuel. A large number of these refineries are scattered throughout Texas, the nation’s epicenter for oil production. Each day, Texans enter refineries and work hard to make our state the leader in energy production. Unfortunately, the companies that own the refineries do not always look out for the well-being of those who work for them.

There’s little debate that refinery work is one of the most dangerous jobs in America. As refineries produce petroleum products, they utilize a complex network of pipes and rely on advanced machinery. This means employers must remain vigilant to stop refinery accidents from happening. Any accident that occurs is almost always due to an employer’s failure to properly maintain a refinery’s equipment.

Refinery equipment that has historically failed due to neglect include:

  • Pipelines
  • Tanks
  • Heaters
  • Boilers
  • Pumps

The Big Spring refinery accident lawyers at Arnold & Itkin have seen a pattern at refineries nationwide. Companies often create a complex set of safety rules and protocols and vocally advertise the pride they take in safety. However, when it comes to practicing these safety protocols, these corporations completely fail to follow them in any meaningful way. This laziness results from a culture of profit chasing—it is simply more profitable to ignore safety and place employees at risk. We’ve seen it over and over: companies often fail to protect their employees, and they take every step possible to avoid taking care of those who are injured when disaster strikes.

Our Big Spring refinery accident lawyers find this unacceptable and are ready to help. Call (888) 493-1629 or use our short online form to review your options with an attorney for free.

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The Big Springs Refinery Disaster

In February of 2008, Big Springs was placed in danger when the Alon USA-owned refinery erupted in flames. The explosion was so violent that nearby residents reported that the blast shook homes, and people as far away as San Angelo felt the blast. Four people were injured and one was sent to the hospital with critical burns.

Months later, an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) found that negligence was the cause of the explosion and fined Alon USA. In its investigation, OSHA found that faulty welding allowed polypropylene to escape from a pump. While Alon USA claimed it was implementing new rules, we know from experience that, had the company spent the proper amount of money on safety procedures to start with, this would not have happened. Three years later, a jury found Alon negligent and forced the company to pay damages to those that the blast affected.

Refinery Accidents are Devastating

When a refinery accident occurs, the consequences are often catastrophic injuries that change people lives. This is where the Big Springs refinery accident lawyers at Arnold & Itkin can help.

Common injuries that Big Springs refinery workers may suffer include:

  • Loss of hearing
  • Loss of vision
  • Burns
  • Electrocution
  • Exposure to toxic substances
  • Blunt force trauma

When these injuries happen, victims are forced to alter their lives. Mounting medical debt and the loss of wages are a common and tragic experience from those that experience catastrophic injuries caused by a plant explosion. Often, those who are suffering do not realize that help may be available.

A History of Making a Difference

When the William Olefins refinery explosion happened in 2013, we fought every step of the way to make sure our clients were protected. We were able to prove that the company failed to fix a faulty safety valve that caused the refinery explosion. As a result, our clients were awarded $33.95 million in damages over two verdicts that allowed them to pay for their medical costs, lost wages, and more.

Our attorneys have made a difference in the lives of people who have needed it the most. In fact, we an extensive record of victories totaling billions for clients who have had their lives shattered by companies that failed to protect them. While our clients focused on healing and recovering, we fought to rebuild their future and force the companies at fault to pay for their negligence. Through it all, our clients never pay a cent upfront—we cover 100% of the costs of litigation, and our clients only pay if we win.

If you or a loved one has experienced a refinery accident, call our Big Springs attorneys today. Consultation is free, and we will help you find your best legal options. Call (888) 493-1629.

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