Oilfield work in North Dakota can be grueling. The shifts are long, the conditions are harsh, and the machinery leaves little room for error. In the Bakken formation alone, thousands of people put in this kind of work every day — and accidents happen more often than most folks outside the industry might think.
If you or someone close to you was hurt on an oilfield site, you’re probably wondering about workers’ compensation. The answer is usually yes, but the rules and paperwork can be more complicated than you expect. Talking with North Dakota oilfield accident injury attorneys early can help you figure out your options and avoid mistakes that could cost you benefits.
Understanding Oilfield Work and Injury Risks
In North Dakota, oilfield crews handle everything from drilling and surveying to running heavy machinery, keeping pipelines in working order, and hauling materials between sites. The work is demanding — long shifts, remote locations, and constant exposure to powerful, high-risk equipment are part of the job.
One wrong move or equipment failure can cause life-changing harm. Some of the most common injuries we see in oilfield cases include:
- Burns from equipment malfunctions
- Broken bones from falls or heavy objects falling onto workers
- Head injuries or concussions caused by impact or explosions
- Crush injuries involving machinery or vehicles
- Amputations and deep cuts from industrial tools or moving parts
The numbers tell the story. In 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a fatality rate of 9.8 per 100,000 workers in oil and gas extraction — more than four times higher than the average across all industries. Vehicle crashes, falls, and “struck-by” incidents accounted for most of these deaths.
With North Dakota producing more than 1.1 million barrels of oil a day over the past 2 years, the work isn’t slowing down — and neither are the risks. That’s why understanding your rights to workers’ compensation isn’t just a formality; it’s a safeguard when the unexpected happens.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in North Dakota
North Dakota’s workers’ compensation system is a no-fault insurance program. That means injured workers do not need to show that their employer was careless or caused the accident.
Instead, the main requirement is that the injury happened while doing work-related tasks. Under the North Dakota Workers’ Compensation Act (NDCC Chapter 65), eligible employees can receive:
- Coverage for hospital and medical costs
- Wage loss benefits if you can’t work
- Disability payments (temporary or permanent)
- Vocational rehabilitation services
All claims are managed by Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI), the state’s agency for workers’ compensation.
Are Oilfield Workers Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
Yes, most oilfield workers in North Dakota are considered employees and are covered. However, one key detail to pay attention to is how you are classified.
If you’re a regular employee working for an oil company, service provider, or site contractor, you’re likely covered by workers’ comp. But if the company classifies you as an independent contractor, you may not be.
Issues that can affect coverage:
- Worker misclassification as an independent contractor
- Failing to report injury in time
- Offsite injuries that aren’t clearly work-related
That said, workers’ comp can still apply even if you’re injured away from the main site—for example, driving between assignments or picking up equipment—if it’s connected to your job.
Common Challenges in Oilfield Workers’ Compensation Claims
Unfortunately, not every claim gets approved the first time. Many oilfield injury claims are denied due to simple mistakes or legal complications.
Here are common reasons WSI may deny or dispute a claim:
- Delayed injury reports to employer
- Missing documentation or medical evidence
- Disputes over whether the worker was “on the clock”
- Overseas or multistate worksite complications
Oilfields often host multiple contractors and subcontractors working side-by-side, which can make responsibility harder to assign. If faulty equipment or a poorly trained crew caused your injury, identifying the responsible party becomes critical.
For example:
- A rig explosion involving defective machinery
- A fall caused by a subcontractor’s failure to secure scaffolding
- A vehicle accident with a third-party driver during a delivery run
These complexities often require legal help to sort out.
Third-Party Liability in Oilfield Accidents
Even if you get workers’ compensation, it won’t cover everything. You can’t sue your employer if you accept comp benefits—but you may still have a valid claim against a negligent third party.
Possible third-party cases include:
- Suing a manufacturer of unsafe oilfield tools or machinery
- Injury caused by a contractor or another party onsite
- Accidents caused by drivers who are not your coworkers
These legal actions can help you recover damages that workers’ comp doesn’t pay for, such as pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, or full wage loss that exceeds state limits.
How Pringle & Herigstad, PC Can Help Oilfield Workers
For decades, Pringle & Herigstad, PC has stood alongside injured workers across North Dakota. We know how oilfield crews operate, how WSI handles claims, and the very real risks that come with working in the energy industry.
When you work with us, we can:
- Confirm your employment status and make sure you meet WSI’s eligibility requirements
- Prepare and file your claim so it’s accurate and on time
- Look into whether a third party may also be liable for your injuries
- Work to secure the full benefits you’re entitled to and support your long-term recovery
An oilfield injury can turn your life upside down — physically, financially, and emotionally. You don’t have to try to handle it all on your own. Call Pringle & Herigstad, PC for a free consultation and find out what steps you can take right now to protect your future.