Oil pipelines are critical components of the nation’s energy infrastructure, responsible for transporting millions of barrels of crude oil and refined products across the country every day. While these underground arteries support the energy economy, they also pose serious risks when not properly maintained or monitored. Oil pipeline incidents are often catastrophic. Explosions, fires, and ruptures can cause devastating injuries, loss of life, environmental damage, and property destruction – especially for workers on the line and residents living nearby.
At Kherkher Garcia, we are committed to protecting the rights of those affected by pipeline incidents. Whether you are an oilfield worker injured on the job or a resident harmed by a nearby explosion or leak, our experienced legal team is here to help. Below, our petrochemical injury attorneys provide a helpful guide if you work in, or live near, a pipeline.
The Purpose and Scope of Oil Pipelines
Oil pipelines are used to transport crude oil, gasoline, diesel, and other petroleum products from production sites to refineries, storage terminals, and distribution centers. In the U.S., the pipeline network spans more than 190,000 miles and is managed by a mix of public and private operators, including major companies like Kinder Morgan, Enbridge, and Colonial Pipeline.
These pipelines typically operate under high pressure, especially when transporting crude oil or natural gas liquids. Because they are buried underground or located in remote areas, damage or degradation can go unnoticed for extended periods – creating dangerous conditions that can lead to catastrophic events.
Examples of Pipeline Incidents
Kinder Morgan Pipeline Fire
A pipeline fire broke out in January between East Bernard and Lissie in Wharton County. According to the Wharton County Sheriff’s Office, the gas line is operated by Kinder Morgan. KM planned to shut the valve supplying the line soon after the fire started, and no injuries were reported. The fire was expected to burn out naturally as pressure decreased.
Mansfield Pipeline Fire
In Mansfield, a wrong-way driver crashed into a natural gas pipeline, causing a significant fire and prompting evacuations within a one-mile radius. The driver suffered critical burn injuries and was airlifted to a hospital. Atmos Energy shut off the gas supply, and the fire was extinguished after a few hours. No other injuries were reported.
Deer Park Pipeline Explosion
A massive explosion occurred when an SUV crashed into a pipeline valve near Spencer Highway, igniting a fire that burned for over 12 hours. The blaze forced the evacuation of nearly 1,000 homes and damaged nearby properties. The pipeline, owned by Energy Transfer, carried natural gas liquids. Investigations suggest the crash was accidental, but the incident raised concerns about pipeline safety in residential areas.
Galveston Pipeline Explosion
A welder suffered severe burns over 40% of his body during an explosion at the Port of Galveston while installing a valve on a crude oil pipeline. The worker has filed a lawsuit alleging negligence by the companies involved. The incident underscores the dangers faced by pipeline workers and the importance of stringent safety protocols.
The Work Behind the Pipes: Dangerous Conditions
Working on or around oil pipelines is inherently hazardous. Pipeline construction, maintenance, and emergency response require workers to operate heavy machinery, weld under pressure, handle flammable substances, and work in confined or remote spaces. Pipeline jobs often include:
- Welders and fabricators
- Heavy equipment operators
- Inspectors and corrosion technicians
- Pipeline engineers and supervisors
- Leak detection specialists
- Emergency response crews
These workers face risks every day, including toxic exposure, mechanical failure, fire, and explosion.
Common Causes of Oil Pipeline Incidents
Pipeline accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. While human error and equipment failure are common contributors, natural forces and criminal activity can also play a role. Some of the leading causes of oil pipeline incidents include:
Corrosion and Material Degradation
Pipelines are made of steel or plastic and are subject to corrosion over time, especially when exposed to moisture, chemicals, or soil contaminants. Without proper inspection and maintenance, small leaks or weak points can evolve into full ruptures.
Equipment Failure or Defective Materials
Poorly manufactured components, defective valves, or malfunctioning pressure systems can lead to uncontrolled releases of oil. When systems designed to prevent accidents fail, the results can be explosive.
Excavation Damage
One of the most common causes of pipeline damage is third-party excavation – such as construction crews digging without knowing there’s a pipeline below. A single strike can rupture a pipe and ignite a dangerous fire or spill.
Operator Error
Failing to follow safety protocols, ignoring warning signs, or mismanaging control systems can lead to a loss of containment. Fatigue, poor training, and communication failures also contribute to human-caused incidents.
Natural Disasters
Floods, landslides, earthquakes, or hurricanes can shift ground positions and damage underground lines. These events often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Sabotage or Vandalism
Intentional tampering with pipelines – whether for theft, protest, or malicious purposes – can create immediate hazards for workers and nearby communities.
The Devastating Consequences of Pipeline Explosions and Fires
When oil pipelines rupture or explode, the results are often catastrophic. Fires fueled by crude oil or refined products are extremely difficult to extinguish and can burn for hours or even days. Victims caught in the blast radius may suffer:
- Severe burns
- Smoke inhalation
- Crush injuries from debris
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputations or disfigurement
- Death
In addition to physical harm, survivors and their families may face lifelong emotional trauma, financial hardship from medical bills, lost wages, and relocation costs. Environmental contamination is also a major concern – oil spills can poison water supplies, destroy ecosystems, and render land uninhabitable.
What Workers Need to Know
If you work in pipeline construction, maintenance, or emergency response, you are entitled to a safe workplace under state and federal law. When employers fail to uphold safety standards, you have the right to take legal action. Here are a few key points every pipeline worker should know:
You Have Rights Even if You’re a Contractor
Whether you’re a full-time employee, subcontractor, or temporary worker, your employer has a duty to protect you on the job. This includes providing personal protective equipment (PPE), safety training, and hazard communication.
Report Unsafe Conditions
If you notice corroded pipes, faulty equipment, or a lack of safety oversight, report it. You are protected from retaliation under whistleblower laws.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you’re injured, get help right away – even if the injury seems minor. Document everything and report the incident to your supervisor.
Contact a Pipeline Injury Lawyer
Workers’ compensation may not cover all your damages, especially in cases involving gross negligence, defective equipment, or third-party liability. A skilled attorney can help you explore all available legal avenues.
What Nearby Residents Should Know
Living near a pipeline puts you at risk – especially if you’re unaware that a line runs beneath or near your property. If a pipeline leaks, ruptures, or explodes, your life, health, and property may be in danger. Here’s what you should know:
Know What’s Underground
Use resources like the National Pipeline Mapping System (NPMS) to determine if you live near a pipeline. Many homeowners are surprised to learn there’s a high-pressure line beneath their neighborhood.
Watch for Signs of a Leak
Signs include the smell of oil or gas, a hissing sound, dead vegetation, or pools of liquid near pipeline routes. If you notice anything suspicious, leave the area and contact emergency services immediately.
Evacuate if Necessary
In the event of an explosion or fire, your first priority is safety. Evacuate and seek medical attention if needed.
You May Have Legal Rights
If you suffer injuries, property damage, or forced evacuation due to a pipeline incident, you may be entitled to compensation. Pipeline operators have a duty to maintain safe operations and warn the public of risks.
How Kherkher Garcia Can Help after Oil Pipeline Incidents
At Kherkher Garcia, we understand the serious nature of oil pipeline incidents. Our attorneys have experience handling complex cases involving industrial explosions, oilfield injuries, and environmental damage. We work with investigators, medical experts, and safety specialists to build strong cases for our clients and fight for maximum compensation.
We help clients recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death
- Long-term care and rehabilitation
Whether you’re a worker injured on the job or a resident impacted by a pipeline disaster, we’re here to fight for you.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been harmed in a pipeline explosion, fire, or leak, don’t wait. Contact the legal team at Kherkher Garcia for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and take the next steps toward justice.
Call us today at 713-333-1030, or fill out our online form to get started. You don’t have to face this alone – we are here to stand up for you.
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