Montana’s oil and gas industry continues to grow, especially in the eastern regions of the state. While these jobs provide economic opportunity, they also carry serious risks. Workers face hazards from heavy machinery, pipelines, rigs, and remote job sites. Accidents in this industry can result in severe injuries or even fatalities.
At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, our oil and gas injury lawyers in Helena help workers across Montana secure workers’ compensation benefits after accidents. We also investigate whether third-party claims — such as defective equipment or contractor negligence — may apply to your situation. Our goal is to protect your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Jobs in oil and gas can be high-risk, and injuries often happen suddenly. Some of the most common accidents include:
Heavy equipment accidents – collisions or rollovers involving drilling rigs, trucks, and loaders.
Falls from height – falls from scaffolding, platforms, or rig structures.
Pipeline accidents – leaks, explosions, or machinery malfunctions.
Struck-by incidents – falling tools, materials, or equipment.
Burns and explosions – fires caused by oil, gas, or electrical sparks.
Exposure to hazardous chemicals – leading to respiratory or skin injuries.
Repetitive motion injuries – strains from lifting, bending, or operating vibrating equipment.
These accidents can cause broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, burns, chemical exposure, or permanent disability.
In Montana, most employers in the oil and gas sector carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical bills and wage loss for on-the-job injuries. Workers’ comp typically covers:
Medical treatment – hospital care, surgery, prescriptions, and rehab.
Wage replacement – partial pay if you are temporarily unable to work.
Permanent disability benefits – if an injury limits your ability to return to your previous job.
Death benefits – for families of workers killed on the job.
However, claims can be complicated. Insurance companies sometimes delay payments, challenge the severity of injuries, or push workers back to work too soon. Our Helena oil and gas injury attorneys help protect your rights and fight for full benefits.
Pipeline work carries unique risks during both construction and operation. Common pipeline-related injuries include:
Excavation accidents – cave-ins, trench collapses, or equipment accidents.
Equipment malfunctions – heavy machinery failure or pipe-laying tools causing injury.
Explosions and fires – from leaks, sparks, or gas build-ups.
Vehicle accidents – collisions involving transport vehicles on remote sites.
Chemical exposure – to crude oil, natural gas, or other industrial chemicals.
In many cases, injuries may involve multiple parties. While workers’ comp covers your medical and wage-loss needs, you may also be able to pursue third-party claims if a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or other party contributed to the accident.
If you’re hurt in Montana’s oil and gas industry, taking the right steps immediately is critical:
Report the injury to your employer – Montana law requires prompt notice.
Seek medical care – ensure your injuries are treated and documented.
Document the accident – photos, equipment involved, and witness accounts can be vital.
File a workers’ compensation claim – we can guide you through forms and deadlines.
Contact an experienced lawyer – to protect your benefits and explore additional claims.
Prompt action helps protect your legal rights and ensures the strongest possible claim.
Oil and gas workplace accidents often involve severe injuries, complex insurance issues, and multiple responsible parties. Montana workers trust our team because we:
Have extensive experience handling workers’ compensation claims and appeals.
Understand the unique risks and regulations in Montana’s oil and gas sector.
Investigate accidents thoroughly to identify all responsible parties.
Provide clear communication and personal attention throughout your case.
We focus on securing the benefits you need to cover medical costs, lost wages, and long-term care while you recover.
If you’ve been injured while working in Montana’s oil or gas industry, don’t wait to get legal help. At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, our attorneys represent workers across Montana, handling everything from workplace accidents to pipeline and operational injuries. Call our office or request a consultation online today. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and fight to get you the benefits and compensation you deserve.
What if defective equipment caused my injury?
You may have a third-party claim in addition to workers’ compensation benefits.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Report your injury immediately and file within 12 months to preserve your rights. Acting quickly strengthens your case.
Can I choose my doctor for treatment?
Most Montana workers can select their own treating physician, though some employers may have preferred provider networks.
