Delaware Oil Field Accident Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Delaware Oil Field Accident Lawsuit Overview

Delaware’s oil and gas industry presents unique risks to workers despite having no crude oil reserves or production. Workers at the Delaware City refinery and the Port of Wilmington petroleum terminal face daily hazards. Primary allegations in refinery accident lawsuits in Delaware typically involve negligence, safety violations, and failure to provide proper training or equipment. Recent industry reports indicate that human error is a significant contributor to accidents in the oil and gas industry [1].

Related Article: Oil Field Accident and Injury Lawsuit Update

Latest Delaware Oil Field Accident Lawsuit Updates

September 27, 2024

– According to the Maritime Injury Center, Murphy Oil has faced repeated legal scrutiny over oil field accidents, exposing ongoing safety risks to workers.

December 29, 2023 – Legal experts at Kherkher Garcia outline the recurring safety failures in oil fields—including the types of injuries and liability issues that lawsuits like Delaware’s seek to address [2].

OSHA Incident Tracking and Energy Use

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), supported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Chemical Safety Board (CSB), tracks safety incidents in the oil and gas industry, including refinery operations. Delaware’s limited oil industry infrastructure, centered on the Delaware City refinery and Port of Wilmington petroleum terminal, contributes to the state’s higher-than-expected per capita energy use due to energy-intensive chemical manufacturing and petroleum refining. OSHA reports notable refinery incidents in Delaware, including a 2001 explosion at Delaware City killing one worker, while nationwide, the oil and gas industry fatality rate was approximately four times the U.S. average in 2023.

Oil Field Accident Injuries & Side Effects

Oil field accidents can result in devastating injuries that affect workers and their families. Workers in Delaware’s petroleum facilities face several potential hazards.

• Burns and Explosions: Severe thermal injuries from fires, explosions, and contact with hot equipment or materials
• Crush Injuries: Trauma from falling equipment, caught-between incidents, or transportation accidents
• Toxic Exposure: Respiratory damage and other health effects from exposure to harmful chemicals
• Head Trauma: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries from falls or struck-by incidents
• Hearing Loss: Permanent damage from prolonged exposure to high noise levels

Do You Qualify for a Delaware Oil Field Accident Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Delaware oil field accident lawsuit if:

• You worked at a petroleum facility in Delaware, such as the Port of Wilmington or Delaware City refinery
• You experienced serious injuries resulting from an accident at these facilities
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the oil field accident
• The accident occurred within the applicable statute of limitations period

Evidence Required for a Delaware Oil Field Accident Lawsuit

To build a strong oil field accident case, you will need to gather:

• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatments
• Employment records confirming your work at the facility
• Accident reports filed with employers or regulatory agencies
• Witness statements from colleagues who observed the accident
• Documentation of safety violations or negligence (if available)

Damages You Can Recover

A successful oil field accident lawsuit may allow you to recover:

• Medical expenses for past and future treatments
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering compensation
• Rehabilitation costs
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Oil and Gas Production in Delaware

Delaware does not have any crude oil reserves or production; however, it does have a petroleum refinery at the Port of Wilmington, which is the world’s largest port for handling bananas and the United State’s leading entry point for fresh fruit and produce.

The Port of Wilmington has a bulk petroleum terminal and a storage depot that handles heating oil, diesel fuel, and other petroleum products. Crude oil from across the globe arrives at the port and at a smaller port at Delaware City, which is 9 miles downriver from Wilmington.

Delaware Energy Statistics

State Overview

• Population: ~1.0 million (<1% of total U.S.)
• Housing Units: ~0.45 million (<1% total U.S.)
• Business Establishments: ~0.026 million (<1% total U.S.)

Annual Energy Consumption (2023)

• Electric Power: 11.9 TWh (<1% total U.S.)
• Coal: 0.7 million short tons (<1% total U.S.)
• Natural Gas: 35.5 Bcf (<1% total U.S.)
• Motor Gasoline: 0.392 million barrels (<1% total U.S.)
• Distillate Fuel: 0.092 million barrels (<1% total U.S.)

Annual Energy Production (2023)

• Electric Power Generation: 8.6 TWh (<1% total U.S.)
• Coal: 0.3 TWh, 3% [0.41 GW total capacity]
• Petroleum: <0.1 TWh, <1% [0.03 GW total capacity]
• Natural Gas: 7.1 TWh, 83% [2.5 GW total capacity]
• Nuclear: 0 TWh, 0% [0 GW total capacity]
• Hydro: 0 TWh, 0% [0 GW total capacity]
• Other Renewable: 0 TWh, 0% [0 GW total capacity] (Note: Solar contributed 0.7 TWh, 8%, not listed here)
• Coal: 0 million short tons (0% total U.S.)
• Natural Gas: 0 Bcf (0% total U.S.)
• Crude Oil: 0 million barrels (0% total U.S.)
• Ethanol: 0 million barrels (0% total U.S.)

Statute of Limitations for Delaware Oil Field Accident Lawsuits

In Delaware, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including oil field accidents, is generally two years from the date of the injury. This means injured workers must file their lawsuit within two years of when the accident occurred. However, there may be exceptions that could extend or limit this timeframe, such as when an injury isn’t discovered until later.

Related Articles:

• Utah Oil Field Accident and Injury Attorney
• Virginia Oil Field Accident and Injury Lawyer

See the other personal injury and accident lawsuits our lawyers have taken on.

FAQs

1. What Is an Oil Field Accident, and Why Might I Need a Lawyer?

An oil field accident involves incidents like explosions or equipment failures. A lawyer can help navigate legal complexities, secure compensation for injuries, and hold responsible parties accountable.

2. Who Can File a Claim for Injuries Sustained in an Oil Field Accident in Delaware?

Workers injured in oil field accidents, or their families in cases of fatal accidents, can file claims. Eligibility depends on employment status and the specifics of the accident.

3. What Types of Injuries Are Common in Oil Field Accidents?

Common injuries include burns, fractures, head trauma, respiratory issues, and hearing loss. Severe accidents can also cause life-threatening conditions or permanent disabilities.

4. How Much Compensation Can I Receive for My Oil Field Accident Injuries?

Compensation varies based on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Recent settlements have ranged from thousands to millions of dollars depending on case specifics.

5. How Long Does an Oil Field Accident Lawsuit Take?

Most cases take 1-3 years to resolve. Simple cases may settle faster, while complex litigation involving multiple parties can take longer.

6. Will I Have to Go to Court for My Oil Field Accident Case?

While most cases settle before trial, your attorney will prepare as if going to court. Having a lawyer with trial experience ensures readiness if settlement negotiations fail.

7. What If My Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

If your employer lacks required workers’ compensation, you may be able to sue them directly. A specialized oil field accident attorney can help explore all available legal options.

8. Can I Still Recover Damages If I Was Partially at Fault?

Delaware follows modified comparative negligence rules, meaning you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible for the accident, though your compensation may be reduced.

9. What Evidence Is Most Critical for My Oil Field Accident Case?

Medical records linking injuries to the accident, witness statements, accident reports, and documentation of safety violations are most valuable for building a strong case.

10. How Do I Choose the Right Oil Field Accident Lawyer?

Look for attorneys with specific experience in oil field accidents, a track record of successful settlements, knowledge of maritime law if applicable, and a contingency fee structure.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for oil field accidents in Delaware. With only two years from the date of injury to file a claim, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights and ensure you don’t miss the opportunity for compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation
• Extensive experience specifically in oil field accident litigation

Don’t let time run out on your opportunity to seek justice. Contact our experienced Delaware oil field accident lawyers today.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Delaware Oil Field Accident and Injury Lawyers

The personal injury lawyers at Schmidt & Clark, LLP have experience dealing with the rights of American oilfield workers, and we are one of the only firms willing to handle oilfield workplace accidents in Delaware and throughout the entire United States.

Again, if you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an oilfield accident in Delaware, you should contact our oil field accident lawyers immediately by using the form below or calling our law firm toll-free 24 hrs/day by dialing (866) 588-0600 to schedule a free case review and legal options.

Clients may be able to recover fair compensation for medical expenses from an oil company in a lawsuit and a personal injury lawyer can help.

References:

[1] https://www.kherkhergarcia.com/common-accidents-injuries-oil-fields/

[2] https://www.kherkhergarcia.com/common-accidents-injuries-oil-fields/