Cabell County residents are no strangers to oil and gas workers and the jobs they perform. Some of the jobs are quite dangerous, and getting hurt on the job is a real possibility. So, readers will not be shocked to learn a man is suing a company for which he worked, as well as the manufacturer of a piece of equipment that led to his workplace injuries. Those injuries have severely impacted his life.
On Dec. 2, a man filed a lawsuit seeking damages in the Ohio Country Circuit Court. The suit alleges that while he was employed as a general laborer, he was tasked with repairing failing or failed elbows on a high-pressure line. The incident in question resulted when a 900-pound, 45-degree replacement elbow used on a high-pressure line blew out due to a faulty seal or valve. The blow-out sent the man flying backwards, and he suffered injuries to his neck and back. According to the suit, the injuries were both severe and permanent.
In the suit, the man is seeking compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost wages and loss of household services. An amount was not listed on the suit, nor was a response from the either the company or the manufacturer of the part that allegedly failed.
Because the man was injured while fulfilling his job duties as an employee, he has the right to seek compensation for injuries sustained while working. Because his injuries are allegedly severe enough to be permanent, compensation for his apparent inability to work in the industry in which he was previously employed can also be sought. The amount he could be awarded if his suit is successful will depend on a variety of factors, including his age and alternate employment options.
Anyone who suffers an injury while performing their job can seek compensation for those injuries. A legal professional experienced in handling such situations can help a person determine the best course of action for their particular circumstances.
Source: WV Record, “Mudhopper employee says he was injured on the job” Matt Russell, Dec. 12, 2013
