Maison Law helps workers that are injured on the job at oil fields run by Sentinel Peak Resources in California. If you’ve been hurt while working on a Sentinel Peak Resources oil field, it can be tempting to just tough it out. Many workers are used to handling issues on their own. But oil field injuries aren’t simple. Our team can make things easier. Set up a free consultation today to learn more.
Should I Talk to a Lawyer?
It’s a good question—and one we hear a lot in these situations. Most people in this situation aren’t looking for a legal fight—they just want to get better and get back to work. But talking to a lawyer isn’t about starting a fight; it’s about making sure you’re not the one stuck with medical bills or lost pay that should’ve been covered. Here’s what our team can do for you in a free initial consultation:
- Help you file or fix your workers’ comp claim.
- Make sure the injury is reported correctly.
- Get the paperwork and statements you’ll need later.
- Look into whether a civil claim applies if another contractor or piece of equipment caused the accident.
Sometimes just one call helps you understand what’s worth going after—and what isn’t. And typically, it’s the information you have that can further guide you.
What Kind of Information Will Actually Help My Claim?
You don’t need to be a lawyer or have perfect paperwork. You just need to start keeping track of the details that paint an honest picture of what happened. Here’s what information can help you do that:
- Accident details. A clear timeline of what you were doing when the accident happened can really help. Try to note the date, time, and
- Witness information. If anyone saw what happened — even if they just came over to help — their statement can help confirm your account.
- Medical records. From the emergency room in Bakersfield to your follow-up doctor visit, every record matters. These show how your injury developed and how it’s impacting your ability to work.
- Pictures/videos. If you can safely get photos of the scene or the equipment involved, do it. Conditions can change fast once the site is cleaned or repaired.
- Safety issues. If you noticed something off before the accident—a worn hose, a missing guard, or equipment that hadn’t been checked—write it down while it’s fresh.
You don’t have to have everything perfect. The key is to hold onto the little pieces before they get lost or forgotten. And once you have all that, you can start thinking about the next step–filing a claim.
What Type of Claim Will I Need to File?
Another huge question you probably have is pretty simple: what kind of claim can I file? The answer depends on a couple key points:
- Whether or not you’re a full-time employee.
- Whether or not negligence caused your accident.
Answering these two questions is important, but every situation is different. Instead, here’s an overview of how the two processes typically work:
- Workers’ comp claim. If you’re a full-time employee of Sentinel Peak or one of its contractors, you’re probably covered under California’s workers’ compensation system. All you have to do is file a claim and start receiving benefits like:
- Certain necessary medical expenses
- Part of your lost wages
- Temporary/permanent disability benefits
- Injury claim. If someone’s negligence caused your injury—maybe a subcontractor skipped a maintenance check or a part failed because it was defective—you might also be able to file a personal injury claim. That can cover losses that workers’ comp doesn’t, like:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost income or a loss of earning potential
- Property damage replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
Filing both types of claims isn’t unusual in oil field cases. These worksites are complicated, and multiple companies often share responsibilities for safety, maintenance, and training. That’s why it’s important to look into what actually caused your accident.
How Do Accidents Happen on Sentinel Peak’s Taft Oil Fields?
Oil field work is unpredictable—and even when you follow every rule, things can go sideways. This is how you can end up hurt in an accident, but the underlying cause is important when it comes to your potential options. Here’s a look at some of the more common causes:
- Poor maintenance of equipment is common. A stuck valve or worn-out pump can burst, leak, or spark a fire in seconds.
- Chemical and gas exposure can build up quietly. Breathing fumes or handling fluids can cause burns or respiratory issues that appear days or weeks later.
- Slips and falls happen often. Between oil residue, wet grating, and uneven ground, even experienced workers can get caught off balance.
- Fatigue is a factor. The long, rotating shifts typical in Taft’s oil fields make it harder to stay alert late in the day.
- Missed safety checks increase risk. Short staffing or rushed supervisors mean hazards sometimes slip through.
Understanding how an accident happened isn’t about pointing fingers—it’s about making sure you have the facts when you file your claim and helping prevent someone else from going through the same thing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my job if I report the injury?
No. California law makes it illegal for employers to retaliate against workers who report injuries or safety problems. If they do, that can open up an additional claim.
What if my injury showed up slowly?
You can still file. Injuries from long-term strain or exposure—like joint pain or chemical irritation—are covered once a doctor connects them to your job.
Do I have to prove anyone was at fault?
Not for workers’ comp. But if a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer caused your injury, proving responsibility can help expand your recovery options.
Contact Maison Law If You’re Injured at a Sentinel Peak Resources California Oil Field
If you’ve been injured at a Sentinel Peak Resources oil field, don’t wait to see what happens. These claims move fast—and it’s easier to protect your rights when you act early. By working with our California oil field accident lawyers at Maison Law, we’ll make things easier by reviewing what happened, handling the paperwork, and making sure your claim is backed by solid evidence. Set up your free consultation today.
