Workplace Dangers in Texas: Catastrophic Injuries in Construction and the Oil Field

Every Texan knows how much this state depends on its workers. From cranes rising over San Antonio’s skyline to the drilling rigs in West Texas, construction and oilfield crews keep the economy moving. Yet these are also some of the most dangerous jobs in the country.

When something goes wrong on a site — a fall, a blowout, an explosion — the results are often catastrophic. Lives can change in seconds. At Ali Law Group, we help injured workers and their families understand what happened, who’s responsible, and how Texas law can help them recover.

Why Texas Job Sites Are So Dangerous

Construction and oilfield jobs demand strength, skill, and long hours in unpredictable conditions. Workers handle heavy equipment, climb scaffolding, and manage high-pressure systems where a single mistake can cause serious harm.

Texas job sites are busy, deadlines are tight, and crews often work through extreme heat. When employers cut corners on training or skip maintenance to save time, the risks multiply. Common causes of catastrophic injuries include falls from elevated platforms, collapsing structures, vehicle rollovers, and equipment failures.

These are not “freak accidents.” Most stem from preventable hazards,  ones that could have been addressed with proper safety measures, equipment checks, or supervision.

The Human Cost of Unsafe Conditions

A catastrophic injury isn’t just a severe wound; it’s a life-altering event that can lead to permanent disability—or, in the most tragic cases, death. In construction and oilfield settings, that can mean amputations, spinal damage, burns, or traumatic brain injuries.

Physical recovery is only part of the story. Many workers can no longer perform the jobs they trained for, forcing them to rebuild from scratch — often while supporting families and managing ongoing pain. The emotional toll is heavy.

Injured workers often ask, “How did this happen?” When the answer is tied to safety lapses that could have been prevented, it could mean you have legal rights. Understanding those failures is key to accountability.

When Safety Rules Are Ignored

Texas law requires employers and contractors to maintain reasonably safe workplaces. When someone fails to do that, by ignoring OSHA standards, neglecting to inspect equipment, or allowing untrained workers to operate dangerous machinery, the result can be negligence.

Negligence doesn’t just mean a mistake. It means a breach of responsibility that causes harm. Victims and their families have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable through personal injury or wrongful death claims.

Every worksite injury is different. Sometimes a subcontractor’s faulty equipment is to blame. Sometimes it’s an oil company’s failure to provide protective gear. A San Antonio personal injury lawyer at the Ali Law Group can help untangle these layers of liability and determine who should be held accountable for the harm.

Legal Protection for Injured Workers

Unlike some states, Texas does not require every employer to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This creates confusion and leaves many injured workers unsure of what to do next. If an employer is a nonsubscriber — meaning they opted out of the workers’ comp system — the employee may be able to file a direct lawsuit to recover damages.

For those covered by workers’ comp, additional third-party claims may still be possible. For example, if a manufacturer’s defective equipment caused an explosion, that company can be held responsible.

The key is understanding all available options early. Deadlines for filing personal injury claims are generally two years from the date of the accident. Speaking with an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer at Ali Law Group right away helps ensure no critical time is lost.

Why Legal Help Makes a Difference

When you’re hurt at work, paperwork and procedures can feel impossible to manage — especially when you’re also dealing with medical care and financial stress. A catastrophic injury attorney​ who understands Texas workplace laws can take on those burdens for you.

At Ali Law Group, we represent construction and oilfield workers across San Antonio and throughout the state. Our goal is simple: to protect your rights, uncover the truth, and help you move forward after a devastating injury.

No one should face the aftermath of a preventable accident alone. With the proper legal support, workers and families can start rebuilding their futures with clarity and confidence.

Speak With a San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you love was seriously injured while working in construction or the oilfields, contact Ali Law Group for a free consultation. Our San Antonio attorneys can explain your rights under Texas law and help you pursue the justice you deserve. Get in touch with a lawyer today.