Houston, Texas, is the fourth-largest city in the country and offers world-class dining, arts, hotels, shopping, and nightlife. The city has been one of the prominent industrial areas for more than a century. The current prime industries in the city include construction, digital tech, aerospace, refineries, etc.
While accidents can happen no matter which industry you are in, refineries often see a large number of accidents in a year. This is mainly because you are surrounded by hazards like explosive materials, huge machinery, and toxic chemicals. When working in such conditions, it is important to protect your health, your career, and your rights.
If you are injured, knowing what to do immediately and in the long run can make a big difference, both for your health and for protecting your rights and finances. A highly-rated Houston refinery accident attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Here are the steps to take from the moment it happens.
Activate emergency response and get medical aid immediately
As soon as an accident happens, your first step is to activate the site’s safety shutdowns and emergency alarms. Let supervisors and emergency responders know what is happening. Even if your injuries seem minor, have them examined right away. Burns, chemical poisoning, and other refinery trauma can become a lot worse if not treated right away.
Report the incident immediately and accurately
Inform your employer as soon as possible and have the accident formally recorded. Provide vital details, including time, place, cause, and those around you. Being clear and concise will benefit you later if you have to claim or prove what occurred.
Document everything you can
Take photos of your injuries, the accident scene, and absent warning signs or defective equipment. Document what happened, who saw it, and what you told medical staff. Gather all hospital and treatment records together so you have proof of injury and expenses.
File a workers’ compensation claim if it applies
Most refinery jobs are covered by workers’ compensation, which pays medical bills and a portion of your lost wages without you having to establish fault. File the claim quickly, meet deadlines, and fill out forms completely. If the claim is rejected, you will probably need a lawyer to appeal.
Explore third-party claims when there is negligence
If the accident was the fault of someone other than your employer, like a contractor, an equipment manufacturer, or another company, you can sue for full lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages that are not covered by workers’ comp. These cases do involve proof of fault, but the reward is usually higher.
Consult with a lawyer who has experience in refinery explosions
A seasoned job injury lawyer can negotiate with insurers and ensure you don’t miss deadlines. So hire the right person who knows refinery safety procedures and chemical exposure litigation.
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Know what you will be compensated for
If you win a personal injury lawsuit, you can also receive a monetary award for future medical needs, mental suffering, lost income in the future, and even damaged personal property.
Final Key Takeaways
Time is important. Evidence can disappear, witnesses may forget details, and legal deadlines can expire. Report the accident, see a doctor, file claims, and speak to a lawyer as soon as possible so you don’t lose your chance to get help.
