Experienced Lawyers In Louisiana

Oil Refinery Injury Lawyer in Louisiana

Home » Oil Refinery Injury Lawyer in Louisiana

Injuredt? Get Gordon!

No Fee Unless We Win

I’ll win your case, or you don’t owe me a dime. No costs, no expenses, no fee. Nothing.

Get A Free Consult

Injured? Get a FREE Consult Now!

K+

Clients Helped

Local Attorneys

Years In Business

$1M Settlements & Verdicts

Best Louisiana Oil Refinery Injury Lawyers Near Me

Free Consultations for Oilfield Injury Victims

A refinery accident can change your life in seconds. One fire, chemical release, or equipment failure can leave you with serious injuries, medical bills, and missed paychecks. On top of that, you may be hearing different stories from your employer, a contractor, and an insurance company.

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we help injured workers and their families find every path to compensation. An oil refinery injury lawyer in Louisiana can explain how workers’ comp works, whether another company can be held responsible, and which deadlines apply to you.

We have recovered $3 Billion for our clients, and our attorneys bring 679+ years of combined legal experience to every case. If you were hurt at a refinery, we are ready to fight for you.

Get A Free Consult

Types of Oil Refinery Injuries Our Louisiana Lawyers Handle

A refinery injury changes more than your health. Your job may be a big part of who you are, and being stuck at home can be hard to accept. Simple things like lifting your kids, driving to the store, or sleeping through the night may suddenly feel out of reach.

We want to understand how your injury affects your whole life, not just your medical chart. Your recovery is personal, and your case should be too. Here are some of the refinery injuries we help people with:

Louisiana Oil Refinery Injury Statistics

These federal numbers cover petroleum and coal products manufacturing, the U.S. industry group that includes oil refineries. Behind each number is a worker and a family.

Get A Free Consult

7

workers killed by on-the-job injuries in 2024

9

workers killed by on-the-job injuries in 2023

1.0

recordable injury or illness for every 100 full-time workers in 2024

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Industries at a Glance: Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing

What Causes Oil Refinery Accidents?

Refineries handle huge amounts of crude oil and fuel every day. Because these products can burn or explode, federal law sets strict safety rules for many plant processes.

OSHA’s Process Safety Management standard (29 CFR 1910.119) is meant to prevent or reduce the harm from catastrophic releases of toxic, flammable, or explosive chemicals. It can apply to any process that holds 10,000 pounds or more of certain flammable liquids or gases in one place. Under this rule, covered plants must inspect and maintain equipment, train workers, issue hot work permits, and warn contractors about known fire, explosion, and toxic release hazards.

When a company skips one of these steps, workers can get hurt. We look for problems such as:

Equipment that was not properly inspected or maintained
Welding or cutting near a covered process without a hot work permit
Outdated or unclear operating procedures
Poor training or supervision
Contract crews who were never told about known hazards
Equipment or process changes that were not properly managed
Falling objects and failed railings or walkways

Our industrial plant accident lawyers also help workers hurt by these kinds of failures at chemical plants and other industrial sites across Louisiana.

Injured? Call Now at 888.501.7888

Injuries and Illnesses After a Refinery Accident

A fire or explosion can expose workers to intense heat, flying debris, and toxic fumes all at once. These injuries can be life-changing. If a blast or fire hurt you at work, one of our explosion and fire injury attorneys can look into what went wrong and who may be responsible.

Refinery accident injuries can include:

Severe burns
Broken bones and crushed limbs
Traumatic brain injuries
Hearing loss
Lung damage from breathing toxic fumes
Amputations
Permanent disability
Fatal injuries

Some harm builds slowly. Benzene is part of petroleum products such as gasoline. OSHA reports that people have developed and died from leukemia after benzene exposure lasting anywhere from under five years to more than 30 years. If you were diagnosed with a serious illness after years of refinery work, we can help you look into whether your exposure played a role.

Get A Free Consult

Workers’ Comp vs. a Third-Party Injury Claim

This is where refinery cases can get confusing. Louisiana gives injured workers two possible paths, and you may be able to use both.

What Workers’ Comp Covers

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. According to the Louisiana Department of Insurance, it provides medical care, disability payments, rehabilitation, and death benefits regardless of fault. You do not have to prove your employer did anything wrong.

In exchange, you generally cannot sue your own employer. Louisiana law makes workers’ comp your exclusive remedy against your employer, except for intentional acts (La. R.S. 23:1032). A workers’ compensation lawyer on our team can help you file your claim on time and push back if your benefits are delayed or denied.

When You Can Sue Another Company

Workers’ comp does not stop you from going after others who caused your injury. Louisiana law lets an injured worker receive comp benefits and also seek damages from a third party who is legally responsible (La. R.S. 23:1101). A third-party claim can seek damages beyond workers’ comp benefits, including pain and suffering.

At a refinery, a third party could include:

An outside contractor whose crew created the hazard
The maker of a defective valve, pump, or safety device
A maintenance or inspection company
An engineering firm that designed an unsafe system

Our oil refinery injury claims lawyers look at every company that had a hand in the work, not just your employer.

Get A Free Consult

Contract Workers and the Statutory Employer Rule

Not everyone at a refinery works for the refinery owner. If you work for a contractor, a Louisiana rule about “statutory employers” may affect who you can sue.

Under La. R.S. 23:1061, a refinery owner that hires a contractor for work that is part of its business can be treated as your statutory employer. When that happens, the owner gets the same protection from lawsuits as your direct employer.

Contracts matter here. If the owner’s written contract with your employer names the owner as your statutory employer, the law presumes that relationship exists. To overcome it, you must show your work was not an integral part of, or essential to, the owner’s ability to make its products.

Even when the owner is protected, other companies may still be responsible. An oil refinery worker injury lawyer in Louisiana can review the contracts and sort out who did what.

Injured? Call Now at 888.501.7888

Louisiana Deadlines and Fault Rules for Refinery Injury Claims

Louisiana deadlines are strict. Missing one can end your claim for good.

Workers’ Comp Deadlines

Report your injury to your employer within 30 days, which is generally required to receive benefits
File a workers’ comp claim within one year of the accident (La. R.S. 23:1209)
If medical benefits were paid, the deadline for medical claims runs three years from the last medical payment

Injury Lawsuit Deadline

Louisiana generally allows two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (La. Civil Code art. 3493.1). Talk to a refinery injury lawyer in Louisiana before you assume you have more time.

Comparative Fault in Third-Party Lawsuits

Workers’ comp benefits do not depend on fault. A third-party lawsuit does. Louisiana changed its fault rule on January 1, 2026. Under the current version of Civil Code Article 2323:

If you are found 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages
If you are less than 51% at fault, your damages are reduced by your share of fault

That makes it important to push back if anyone tries to blame you for the accident. Your employer can also be assigned part of the fault, even though you cannot sue them, which leaves a smaller share for the company you sued.

Get A Free Consult

Compensation You May Recover

What you can recover depends on which claims apply to your case.

Workers’ comp benefits may include:

Medical care
Disability payments when you cannot work
Rehabilitation
Death benefits

A third-party claim may seek damages for:

Past and future medical expenses
Lost earnings and lost future earnings
Physical and mental pain and suffering
Physical disability
Loss of enjoyment of life

If a refinery accident took your loved one, Louisiana law lets certain family members, starting with a surviving spouse and children, bring a wrongful death claim (La. Civil Code art. 2315.2). These cases may have different requirements, so schedule a consultation with us so that you know where you stand.

Get A Free Consult

Speak With a Louisiana Oil Refinery Injury Lawyer Near You Today

You should not have to take on a refinery, a contractor, and an insurance company by yourself. Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys is ready to help you sort out workers’ comp, third-party claims, and the deadlines that apply to you.

Call 888.501.7888 today for a free consultation with an oil refinery injury attorney in Louisiana.

With our No Fee Unless We Win promise, you pay nothing unless we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor. That’s the G Guarantee.

Get Gordon, Get It Done!

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary depending on the facts and circumstances of each case. Viewing this website or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Injured? Call Now at 888.501.7888

How Our Louisiana Oil Refinery Injury Attorneys Build Your Case

After an accident, the company will have its own version of what happened. You deserve a team looking out for you, too. When you hire an oil refinery accident injury lawyer from our Louisiana team, we work to:

Gather incident reports, work permits, and maintenance records
Request OSHA inspection records when they exist
Identify every contractor and equipment maker involved
Review the contracts that may affect who you can sue
Document your injuries with your medical providers
Handle communications with insurance companies
Prepare your case for settlement talks or trial

Our record includes 230+ Million dollar verdicts and settlements. Our personal injury lawyers across Louisiana take on the legal fight so you can focus on healing.

Serving Injured Oil Refinery Workers in Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, and Across Louisiana

If you were hurt working on an offshore oil rig, our oil rig accident lawyers can help. For injuries on supply boats, barges, or other maritime vessels, talk to our offshore and maritime lawyers. We have office locations all across Louisiana, including Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, New Orleans, and all across Louisiana. Call us today to Get Gordon and get it done!

Don’t Wait — Talk to a Louisiana Oil Refinery Injury Lawyer Today

At Gordon Mckernan Injury Attorneys, we understand that emotional and physical recovery come hand and hand after an injury or accident. We also know that you may not have the energy or time to fight with an insurance company and the complexities of your personal injury claim.

Call a Louisiana Oil Refinery Injury Laywer Near Me

How It Works

Filing a claim with Gordon Mckernan Injury Attorneys is easy!
Simply follow the steps below.

Step One

Step 2

Step 3

Get Your Free Consultation

Fill out our quick and easy form to find out if your case qualifies. Our consultations are free and confidential, and we are here to help whether you hire us or not!

Hear From An Attorney

Our team will evaluate your case and decide on the best course of action. One of our lawyers will get back to you promptly and begin the process of winning your case!

Get Gordon!
Get It Done!

Once your case has been evaluated and deemed a good fit for our firm, our team will go to work immediately on gathering evidence, building your case, and getting you the compensation that you deserve.

Excellent

          Posted on Google  
   
   Molly Larpenteur 
 20 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Brent Robinson handled my case so well. He always communicated with me in a timely manner and guided me in making the best decisions regarding my case.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kaiden Dawson 
 20 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Devin was very helpful and did an awesome job with my case
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marlene Johnston 
 20 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m grateful that I trusted Gordon McKernan to handle my injury case. My attorney, Chris Melancon was so professional, understanding, knowledgeable and informative. I couldn’t have asked for better. Highly recommend! The outcome he worked for exceeded my expectations. I only wish I’d contacted them sooner!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kaiden Dawson 
 19 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Devin was awesome and very helpful, he did a great job handling my cases
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   marcelle murphy 
 19 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Awesome attorney, Jeff Watson and the entire team a great to work with.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   His Grace 
 18 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My Atty was Jeff Watson, he is very knowledgeable of the laws as it relates to personal injury. He has several years of experience working within the corporate and private sector. Atty Watson ensure the full value of my case was received. After being persistent with the negotiating process, he was able to obtain additional funds. Ms Donna is a very compassionate person and has a great personality. Thanks to everyone involved in this process. May God bless and keep you all.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Aaron Phillips 
 17 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience was amazing, Eric made it simple for me as I was taking care of getting better.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tercarla Davis 
 16 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Love them they get it done fast too
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Barry Washington 
 15 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I couldn’t be more pleased with the service. This is the best law firm ever thanks to Matt Terrell and Courtney Yarbrough. Thank you
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Bernice Joseph 
 15 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hands down the best law firm!!!. I recommended this firm to another person and the attorney Matt Terrell took care of them. Very professional, compassionate and wonderful. You gotta be crazy not to hire them!!!!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ashston Lowe 
 15 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Get Gordon! Easy process, great people. 100% recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   stephanie first 
 14 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
I loved how Mr Antonio was prompt in calling me texting me keeping me up to date with my case was solved  very fast
I've been with The law firm through serveral cases Mr Antonio Finley never disjointed me I will recommend Gordon law firm to everyone I know.  MR Finley the best Thank yall Grateful
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Biancadenai 
 14 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chad was amazing ! He was always available for me and made sure I really understood what was going on with my case. It didn’t give money hungry , it gave he actually cared about me.

Thankyou Chad
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Stephanie Miciotto 
 14 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m Martin Miciotto had an amazing experience with Gordon McKernan law firm !! My attorney Doug Foster and Staff was excellent. Keep me well informed throughout the whole time
Would recommend Gordon McKernan Law Firm and Doug Foster my attorney in Gonzales to everyone
Thank you
Gordon McKernan and Doug Forster & Staff in Gonzales La
From bottom of my heart Thank you
Martin Miciotto
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   BFabulous Jewelry 
 13 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have had the pleasure of being a client of Gordon and Gordon 9n teo occassions due to car accidents. They were very thorough and professional. The attorneys kept me abreast of the status of my cases and were very attentive when I had questions. They were easy to communicate with. I truly appreciate the prompt response to my calls, text and or emails. Gordon and Gordon cares about their clients. I highly recommend using them if one should ever be in need of a person injury attorney.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nathaniel Casher 
 13 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very good, very professional, made us feel so welcome.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   justin rabalais 
 13 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Eric was a great lawyer very helpful and answered every question and got me paid quick and kept me updated.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   mike keogh 
 13 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dear Gordon, had a great experience with both Brandon and Jenna on my recent case and extremely happy with their empathy and understanding of my needs in my case. Found them both very professional and informative on explaining my case along with referral doctors who were also very beneficial. Thank you again for providing a great service and will continue to refer other clients to your firm. Sincerely- Mike Keogh
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Reg 
 11 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I don’t know about other law firms but Gordon was good and my personal lawyer Devin perfect,,, he always answered,,always answered questions to full extent,, I drive a tow truck now and every wreck I go to I tell people go to Gordon and specifically ask for Devin,, I don’t know if you read these Mr Gordon but Devin at Lafayette office needs a raise and employee of the year he’s a good guy
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   God First 
 9 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. "I can't say enough good things about Annabelle at Gordon McKernan. She took on my workers' comp case and fought for me every step of the way. She kept me updated, answered my questions, and made a stressful situation a lot easier to handle. Thanks to her hard work, we won my case. If you've been hurt on the job, I highly recommend her. Thank you, Annabelle!"
  
 
 
  Load more
 
 
   Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 6471 reviews 
 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Settlements & Verdicts

Frequent Answered
Questions

Do you need a boating license in Louisiana?