$5,250,000 Settlement

Case Overview

Our client, a hardworking oil rig floorhand, suffered catastrophic injuries when critical drilling equipment malfunctioned in sub-freezing weather. Despite repeated safety concerns raised by the crew about operating in extreme cold, work continued under pressure to maintain production. Moments later, a heavy steel component failed and struck the worker with tremendous force.

Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP took swift action to uncover the truth behind this preventable tragedy. Our investigation revealed clear evidence of negligence — including ignored safety warnings, equipment malfunction, and a failure to halt operations in hazardous conditions. The case resolved for $5,250,000, providing our client with the resources needed for long-term care and financial security.

The Incident

The floorhand was part of a drilling crew performing routine operations during a severe cold snap. Crew members had voiced concerns about the reliability of the rig’s rotary equipment and hydraulic systems in freezing temperatures, but those concerns were dismissed.

During tripping operations, the rotary machine’s clutch failed to engage properly, causing the tongs to spin in the wrong direction. A 1,000-pound steel component moved suddenly and struck the worker, causing devastating injuries.

The injured worker was immediately airlifted for emergency medical treatment.

The Injuries

The incident resulted in severe and permanent injuries, including:

• Multiple compound fractures
• Internal organ trauma
• Permanent nerve and tissue damage

The worker required multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation and now faces lifelong physical limitations and chronic pain.

The Employer’s Failures

Armstrong Lee & Baker’s investigation revealed that this tragedy could have been prevented with proper safety enforcement and equipment maintenance.

Key findings included:

• Failure to Act: Supervisors had full authority to stop work but failed to do so despite known risks.
• Negligence Under Pressure: Production goals were prioritized over worker safety.
• Equipment Malfunction: Mechanical failure occurred due to cold-weather stress and inadequate maintenance.
• Ignored Warnings: Crew members raised safety concerns before operations began, which were disregarded.

The Legal Strategy

Our firm worked with leading experts in oilfield safety, mechanical engineering, and occupational health to prove that this incident was the direct result of negligence and poor oversight. Through detailed technical analysis and testimony, we demonstrated how preventable equipment failures — combined with management pressure — created the perfect conditions for disaster.

Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP built a clear and compelling case showing that multiple opportunities to prevent harm were ignored.

The Outcome

Our relentless advocacy resulted in a $5,250,000 recovery for our client — reflecting both the severity of the injuries and the clear failures that led to them. This result provided essential financial support for ongoing medical treatment and ensured accountability for those responsible.

At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, we stand up for oilfield workers who are injured because safety took a back seat to production. We fight to make sure that no worker or family suffers in silence when preventable hazards cause lasting harm.

Key Takeaways

• Cold Weather Hazards: Equipment performance can degrade rapidly in freezing conditions if not properly inspected and maintained.
• Safety Over Production: Supervisors must never prioritize operational goals over human safety.
• Empowered Workers: Stop-work authority is critical — every worker has the right to refuse unsafe tasks without fear of reprisal.