Representing Injured Oilfield Workers in Texas & Nationwide
The oil and gas industry injures thousands of workers every year, making it one of the most dangerous in the United States. San Antonio oilfield workers understand the dangers their work involves, and they take precautions to prevent serious injury. Unfortunately, a worker’s caution isn’t always enough to keep them from getting hurt. Accidents occur when employers fail to provide the proper equipment and training or do not maintain reasonably safe worksites.
Arnold & Itkin understands the challenges you face after an oilfield accident. Tragic work accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, expensive medical bills, and loss of income. If you have sustained injuries in an oilfield accident because of an employer’s negligent behavior, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. A San Antonio oilfield accident attorney at Arnold & Itkin can fight to recover everything you need to rebuild your life.
For a free consultation with an oilfield accident lawyer in San Antonio, call our firm at (888) 493-1629 or reach out online. We're here to answer your questions and help.
San Antonio sits near the heart of the Eagle Ford Shale, one of the most active oil and gas formations in the country. The city serves as a major hub for oilfield operations, with trucks, pipe yards, machine shops, and labor flowing through daily. Oilfield activity here isn’t confined to remote rigs—it spills over into highways, suburbs, and rural roads.
That overlap between industrial work and everyday infrastructure creates a potentially hazardous environment.
Unlike more isolated fields in West Texas or offshore rigs in the Gulf, San Antonio’s oil and gas operations often operate just miles from residential neighborhoods and major commuter routes. Tanker trucks hauling flammable loads share the road with families headed to school. Frac crews run shifts through the night, and service trucks rush between leases on rural farm-to-market roads that weren’t built to handle 80,000-pound rigs.
The combination of dense population, heavy equipment traffic, and breakneck production schedules creates a perfect storm. And when oil companies push crews to do more with less—less time, less manpower, less maintenance—the result is often a devastating injury or fatal accident.
To make things more complicated, multiple subcontractors may be involved. Equipment may be owned by one party, operated by another, and maintained by a third. Navigating these layers of liability takes deep industry knowledge and relentless investigation—two things our team brings to every case. At Arnold & Itkin, we know how these operations work and where the safety breakdowns happen. Our firm is built to take on the biggest names in oil and gas—and win. If you've been injured in a San Antonio oilfield accident, we're here to make sure you aren't left picking up the pieces alone.
Potential Hazards on San Antonio Oilfields
Oilfields in the San Antonio area—especially those operating along the southern edge of the Eagle Ford Shale—are some of the busiest in the nation. But with that activity comes risk. Oilfield workers here face some of the harshest and most dangerous working conditions in the state. Between high-pressure systems, flammable chemicals, and heavy equipment, the smallest oversight can cause catastrophic injury or death.
Our San Antonio oilfield accident attorneys routinely handle cases involving:
Explosions, Fires & Toxic Exposure Whether from a gas leak, tank rupture, or well blowout, explosions and fires on oilfields are devastating. San Antonio oil rig workers may suffer burns, traumatic injuries, or be exposed to volatile chemicals like hydrogen sulfide or drilling mud additives—many of which can cause long-term damage or death.
Malfunctioning or Poorly Maintained Equipment High-wear machinery like pumps, drilling rigs, and valves requires constant upkeep. When companies delay maintenance to save money, that equipment becomes a threat. Failures in pressurized systems or moving components can lead to crushing injuries, amputations, or fatal blowbacks.
Falls from Height & Slip Hazards Drilling operations involve elevated work platforms, catwalks, and scaffolded areas. Without proper fall protection—like harnesses, guardrails, and secured ladders—workers are at serious risk. Even ground-level walkways coated in oil, mud, or water become slip hazards that can lead to back injuries, broken bones, or concussions.
Falling Tools & Equipment On a rig, it’s not uncommon for workers to carry and use a variety of heavy tools while working at heights. A dropped wrench, shackle, or pipe joint can turn deadly in an instant. Loose tools, equipment, and materials must be properly secured while not in use, and in some cases, work below must cease.
Every one of these hazards is manageable with the right training, equipment, and oversight. When oil and gas companies fail to provide those protections, we hold them accountable. At Arnold & Itkin, we’ve won billions for injured workers and grieving families because we know what it takes to prove negligence and demand real justice. If you or a loved one was hurt in a San Antonio oilfield accident, we’re ready to fight for what’s fair.
Common Oilfield Jobs in San Antonio & Their Hazards
San Antonio plays a pivotal role in Texas oil production, with its proximity to the Eagle Ford Shale placing thousands of workers at the frontlines of oilfield operations. These include roughnecks, drillers, derrickhands, toolpushers, truck drivers, and pump operators—all of whom face serious risks every time they clock in.
Each of these roles comes with its own set of hazards:
Roughnecks and floorhands often operate heavy machinery and handle pipe connections.
Drillers and derrickhands work on elevated platforms and must contend with high-pressure systems.
Truck drivers hauling frac sand, fuel, and wastewater drive long distances on narrow roads and crowded highways.
Pump operators monitor and control flowback from the well, which includes volatile materials under pressure.
When these roles are performed without proper safety measures or under excessive fatigue, serious injuries are not just possible—they're likely. At Arnold & Itkin, our San Antonio oilfield accident attorneys investigate not just what happened, but why it happened—and who should be held responsible
Oilfield Truck Accidents in South Texas
The highways stretching out from San Antonio are lifelines for the oilfield—but they're also deadly. Thousands of trucks pass through the region each day, transporting water, drilling mud, sand, crude oil, and equipment. Drivers often log excessive hours, navigating rural roads that are poorly lit, uneven, and narrow.
Oilfield truck accidents can be especially dangerous for a few key reasons:
Trucks may be overloaded or improperly balanced, increasing the risk of rollover.
Drivers are often fatigued, working long shifts and pressured by unrealistic deadlines.
Maintenance may be neglected to avoid costly downtime, leading to brake, tire, and steering failures.
Hazardous cargo can cause fires, explosions, or chemical exposure in a crash.
Dangers of Faulty Equipment for San Antonio Workers
Malfunctioning oil extraction equipment can trigger an explosion or fire. Every piece of equipment used to extract, transport, and store oil is owned and maintained by oil and gas companies. It is, therefore, their responsibility to keep these processes and equipment free from hazards. Companies often fail to repair or upkeep equipment to reduce costs—putting their workers' lives at risk. Defective equipment can also expose workers to toxic chemicals. If a chemical leaks, it’s usually because an employee was not properly trained or because the machinery used is defective.
When employers fail to provide a safe work environment, they must be held responsible for their negligent behavior.
Facing Off Against Major Oilfield Operators in San Antonio & Nationwide
With its proximity to the Eagle Ford Shale and active service yards throughout Bexar County, San Antonio is a critical location for oilfield logistics across South Texas. Major operators and service contractors with a significant presence in the region include Valero, EOG Resources, Pioneer Natural Resources, and Occidental Petroleum, backed by regional support from well service and drilling providers like Helmerich & Payne, Cactus Drilling, and EP Energy.
Arnold & Itkin has gone against the biggest oil companies on the planet—and won. They may have seemingly endless resources and teams of defense attorneys to protect their interests, but our San Antonio oilfield accident attorneys won’t be outworked.
$209 Million Verdict After an oilfield worker died after exposure to Hantavirus, our firm helped his wife find justice. We worked to prove that the company was aware of the risk and failed to inform crews or take preventive measures to protect them.
$72 Million Settlement We secured this life-changing award for a rig worker who lost his arm during a maintenance shutdown. Our team was able to trace negligence to multiple contractors, and the case settled just days before trial.
$36.5 Million Settlement For a worker wrongfully blamed in an incident involving mechanical failure that left him catastrophically injured, our team took over 40 depositions. Intense preparation led to a high-value settlement that ensures lifelong support for our client.
“My employer…threw me under the bus…everything they did ‘by the books’ seemed like they made it more my fault. Arnold & Itkin helped me with medical treatment, set me up with specialists, and even provided a prosthetic arm—far beyond what they should have.”
Our results pages highlight multi-million dollar settlements and awards, but it’s testimonials like Josh’s that truly capture what sets us apart: real outcomes backed by unwavering support.
Recognition Earned Through Real Results
At Arnold & Itkin, recognition from elite legal organizations has been earned through our complete commitment to excellence and a client-first mindset. We treat our clients like family and fight for the results they need—against all odds.
Just a few of these organizations include:
Best Lawyers, one of the oldest and most trusted peer-review publications in the legal field, has recognized Arnold & Itkin attorneys with 10 The Best Lawyers in America® and 4 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America awards.
Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters publication that selects the top 5% of attorneys based on peer nominations and independent research, has listed many of our firm's attorneys year after year.
The Inner Circle of Advocates, an invitation-only group of the top 100 plaintiff trial attorneys in the country, which was established in 1972. Jason and Kurt are both members of this prestigious organization.
We continue to make our mark not only in our clients’ lives but by setting the standard for personal injury litigation in the United States and worldwide.
San Antonio Oilfield Injury Resources
After a serious oilfield accident, the first priority is getting medical attention. If you or a loved one is hurt, call 911 immediately or get to the nearest trauma center. Once stabilized, it’s important to speak with a local attorney who understands the oil and gas industry. Preserving evidence, documenting injuries, and identifying liable parties early can make all the difference in your recovery—both physical and financial.
San Antonio is home to several top medical and rehabilitation facilities. These offer critical care for burn injuries, orthopedic trauma, head injuries, and long-term rehabilitation:
For oilfield workers and their families, San Antonio is more than a city or an oil and gas hub. It’s their home. When companies fail to uphold safety, they endanger not only oilfield crews but also residents living near transport corridors, pipe yards, and staging areas throughout the region.
Arnold & Itkin, LLP 100 NE Loop 410, Suite 650 San Antonio, TX 78216
Call Our San Antonio Oilfield Accident Lawyers: (888) 493-1629
Arnold & Itkin knows the challenges that injured oilfield workers face. The first step to seek compensation is to contact an oilfield accident attorney in San Antonio. An attorney will be able to investigate your accident and develop a strong case on your behalf. Seeking compensation will help you achieve financial security and will help get your life back on track. Our team has helped thousands of injured workers secure the compensation they deserve to recover their losses after an accident. We have recovered billions of dollars for our clients, setting verdict and settlement records nationwide.
When oilfield workers need to get their lives back on track after an accident, they trust Arnold & Itkin. Our San Antonio oilfield accident lawyers are ready to help you at (888) 493-1629.
CommonQuestions
What Should I Do After an Oilfield Accident in San Antonio?
If you've been hurt, seek medical attention immediately—even if your injuries seem minor. Then, report the accident to your supervisor in writing and request a copy for your records. Do not give recorded statements or sign anything from the company or insurer until you speak with an attorney. Evidence can disappear quickly on an oilfield, so it’s critical to contact a San Antonio oilfield accident lawyer right away. Our team moves fast to secure evidence, interview witnesses, and hold companies accountable before they can shift the blame or cover up negligence.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Oilfield Accident?
Liability may rest with multiple parties. This could include your employer, a site owner, a subcontractor, or an equipment manufacturer—especially if faulty machinery, unsafe conditions, or inadequate training caused your injury. Third-party claims are often more powerful than workers' comp and allow for full recovery, including pain and suffering. Our San Antonio oilfield accident attorneys can investigate every angle to identify all responsible parties and maximize your recovery.
Does Workers' Compensation Cover Oilfield Injuries in Texas?
Texas doesn’t require employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance, meaning many oilfield companies opt out. If your employer doesn’t carry coverage—or if a third party caused your injuries—you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit instead. Lawsuits often result in significantly higher compensation than workers’ comp alone. We can help you understand your rights, determine whether your employer carries coverage, and explore all legal options for compensation.
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover?
Oilfield accident survivors may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, future earning potential, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and more. If a company’s reckless behavior caused a death or catastrophic injury, we may also seek punitive damages. We don’t settle for lowball offers—our job is to fight for the full value of what you’ve lost and what you’ll need to rebuild your life.
How Long Do I Have to File an Oilfield Injury Claim in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, waiting can weaken your claim, especially if crucial evidence is lost or if the company begins an internal investigation without your representation. Contacting a local oilfield injury lawyer in San Antonio immediately gives you the best chance of recovering everything you’re entitled to.
What If I Lost a Loved One in an Oilfield Accident?
You may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit if your family member was killed in an oilfield accident due to negligence. Surviving spouses, children, or parents can pursue compensation for funeral expenses, lost future income, and the emotional pain of their loss. At Arnold & Itkin, we’ve helped families across Texas secure justice in the wake of unthinkable tragedy—and we’re here to do the same for you.
