Our attorneys have extensive experience defending personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits involving oilfield explosions, commercial truck collisions, and industrial product failures. These cases often involve multiple parties and millions of dollars in potential exposure. We handle claims including:

• Rig explosions, fires, and blowouts leading to burn injuries or fatalities
• Falls, struck-by, and caught-between incidents on drilling or completion sites
• Equipment failures, product defects, and alleged OSHA violations
• Commercial motor vehicle crashes tied to oilfield service operations
• Offshore platform and maritime accidents resulting in severe bodily injury or death

Each of these cases requires knowledge not only of personal injury law but also of the intricate web of contracts, safety protocols, and technical standards that govern the oil and gas industry. Our attorneys develop comprehensive defenses by integrating engineering analysis, regulatory compliance evidence, and expert testimony to rebut allegations of negligence or product defect.

Defending oil and gas litigation effectively requires more than legal skill; it demands fluency in the operations and standards that define the industry. Our firm works closely with engineers, rig supervisors, metallurgists, and safety experts to dissect the mechanical, electrical, and procedural aspects of each accident.

We understand how OSHA, DOT, and API standards apply to oilfield operations and how plaintiffs may attempt to use those standards to establish liability. We focus on demonstrating industry compliance, highlighting crew training, inspection frequency, and adherence to established maintenance systems. When appropriate, we also show how unforeseen events or the actions of non-client contractors were primary causes of the incident.

Whether investigating a drilling mud pump failure, a valve rupture, or a vehicle collision involving a vacuum truck or service rig, our attorneys reconstruct the sequence of events and isolate what truly happened, often disproving speculative or exaggerated claims made by opposing experts.

Many catastrophic injury cases involve complex indemnity disputes among contractors, subcontractors, and product manufacturers. Texas law imposes strict limits on indemnity provisions under the Texas Oilfield AntiIndemnity Act (TOAIA), which can dramatically shift risk across multiple parties.

Our attorneys routinely handle these issues in tandem with liability defense. We analyze Master Service Agreements, insurance policies, and contractor terms to determine the enforceability of indemnity and insurance obligations. When a plaintiff’s recovery hinges on indemnity assignments or additional-insured provisions, we work aggressively to minimize our clients’ exposure and ensure the statutory protections of the TOAIA are upheld.

Oilfield companies depend on fleets of commercial vehicles to move materials, personnel, and equipment. When an accident occurs involving a company truck, pickup, or heavy hauler, litigation can quickly escalate into a multimillion-dollar claim. We represent energy companies, operators, and transportation providers in serious injury and wrongful death cases arising from:

• Highway collisions involving drilling or service vehicles
• Fatigue-related crashes and logbook disputes
• Alleged violations of federal motor carrier safety regulations
• Improper loading, towing, or oversize transport claims

Our attorneys understand how federal and state transportation rules interact with oilfield logistics. We work with accident reconstructionists and compliance experts to evaluate vehicle inspection records, telematics data, and driver qualification files to challenge claims of systemic safety failure.

Our firm also defends clients facing catastrophic injury and death claims under maritime law. Offshore drilling and marine transport operations in the Gulf of Mexico present unique challenges governed by the Jones Act, General Maritime Law, and the Death on the High Seas Act.

We represent vessel owners, operators, and contractors in cases involving explosions, falls, diving incidents, and machinery malfunctions. These cases often combine maritime law, vessel maintenance records, and complex jurisdictional issues. Our approach emphasizes immediate investigation: preserving logbooks, maintenance data, and expert reports to mount a proactive defense.

Rapid response is critical in catastrophic injury and fatality cases. Our attorneys and investigators mobilize immediately after an incident to gather facts, secure evidence, and coordinate with company representatives and insurers. Preserving time-sensitive information such as electronic data, security footage, and witness statements is key to building a successful defense.

We work alongside safety and claims teams to ensure investigations comply with both internal policies and external reporting requirements. By acting early, we help our clients control the narrative, avoid spoliation risks, and prevent the case from being defined by incomplete or misleading information.

While many cases resolve through settlement or mediation, our attorneys are prepared and experienced trial lawyers. We have defended dozens of high-exposure cases to verdict across Texas. Our trial strategy combines technical understanding with compelling presentation, explaining industrial processes clearly and credibly to jurors unfamiliar with oilfield operations.

We are equally focused on helping companies mitigate future risk. Through ongoing counsel, we assist clients in updating safety programs, reviewing contractor agreements, and identifying vulnerabilities that could create future litigation exposure.

At Fee, Smith & Sharp LLP, our mission is to protect oil and gas industry clients from the financial and reputational consequences of catastrophic injury and wrongful death litigation. We bring decades of combined courtroom experience and a deep understanding of the laws and science that govern energy operations in Texas and the Gulf region.

Our team has successfully defended cases involving multiple fatalities, complex engineering disputes, and parallel OSHA investigations. We know how to engage with juries, negotiate strategic settlements, and deliver results when trial becomes necessary.

For energy companies, contractors, and insurers facing serious claims across Texas – including the Permian Basin, Eagle Ford Shale, and Gulf Coast regions – our trial lawyers stand ready to defend your interests with skill, professionalism, and industry insight.

Contact us through our online form to schedule a consultation with the Texas oil and gas litigation team at Fee, Smith & Sharp LLP today.