North Dakota consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous states for workers, and the oil and gas industry bears much of the responsibility. The AFL-CIO has named North Dakota among the deadliest state to work in, with oilfield injuries and fatalities driving those statistics. If you have been injured while working in North Dakota’s oil fields, a North Dakota oilfield accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and pursue fair compensation.
The Bakken Oil Boom and Its Human Cost
The Bakken shale formation transformed North Dakota’s economy starting in the early 2000s. Production increased twelve-fold between 2000 and 2015, drawing thousands of workers from across the country with promises of six-figure salaries. However, that rapid growth came at a devastating cost.
During the height of the boom, at least 74 workers died in the Bakken oil fields. An investigative report found that one oilfield worker was killed every six weeks on average. Reported injuries climbed substantially in the following years. Those numbers only tell part of the story, as many injuries go unreported.
Why Are North Dakota’s Oil Fields So Dangerous?
Several factors contribute to the Bakken’s deadly reputation.
Weak regulatory oversight allows energy companies to avoid accountability when accidents occur. OSHA inspectors cover a vast territory with limited staff, making regular site visits difficult. Many violations go undetected until after serious injuries or fatalities occur.
Hiring practices prioritize speed over safety. When oil prices are high and production demands increase, companies often hire inexperienced workers and contractors. New workers may receive minimal safety training before being assigned to dangerous tasks.
Anti-indemnification protections that exist in other oil-producing states like Texas do not apply in North Dakota. This means major oil companies can shift legal responsibility for accidents to smaller contractors, reducing their incentive to maintain safe working conditions.
Long shifts and worker fatigue create additional hazards. Oilfield workers often work 12-hour shifts for days or weeks at a time. Exhaustion impairs judgment and reaction time, increasing accident risk.
Common Types of Oilfield Accidents in North Dakota
Workers in North Dakota’s oil fields face numerous hazards daily.
Explosions and fires remain among the deadliest risks. Oil and gas are highly flammable, and a single spark can cause catastrophic explosions. Workers have suffered severe burns and fatalities when safety equipment was missing or malfunctioning.
Equipment failures and machinery accidents cause crushing injuries, amputations, and deaths. Drilling rigs, pumps, and heavy machinery require proper maintenance and operation. When companies cut corners, workers pay the price.
Transportation accidents claim many lives on and around oilfield sites. Truck drivers delivering water, sand, and chemicals face long hours on remote roads. Collisions involving oilfield trucks often cause serious injuries.
Falls from heights occur on drilling rigs and other elevated work areas. Missing guardrails, improper scaffolding, and inadequate fall protection contribute to these preventable injuries.
Toxic chemical exposure affects workers handling fracking fluids, hydrogen sulfide gas, and other hazardous materials. Long-term exposure can cause respiratory problems, organ damage, and other serious health conditions.
What Should Injured Oilfield Workers Do?
If you suffer an injury in a North Dakota oil field, take these steps to protect your rights.
Report your injury to your employer immediately and seek medical attention. Even injuries that seem minor at first can develop into serious conditions requiring extensive treatment.
Document everything you can about the accident, including photos of the scene, equipment involved, and your injuries. Get contact information from any witnesses.
Understand your options for compensation. North Dakota’s workers’ compensation system covers most workplace injuries, but it may not provide full compensation for your losses. In many cases, you may also have a third-party liability claim against equipment manufacturers, contractors, or other parties whose negligence contributed to your injury.
Get Help From Experienced Oilfield Accident Attorneys
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. has represented injured workers throughout North Dakota since 1909. We understand the unique challenges oilfield workers face and know how to hold negligent companies accountable. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with our team in Grand Forks or Minot.