Oil Transportation Safety Issues

Oil and gas are transported from Oklahoma to all parts of the nation, in ever-increasing volumes. These products fuel cars, heat homes and businesses, cook foods, and help our country in many different ways. There are many logistical factors that govern how these energy products are shipped. There are also many safety concerns that need to be considered.

Forbes Magazine discussed some of the safety issues involved with the transportation of oil, gas, and other products. Per their analysis, trucks – which accounts for approximately 4% of all oil shipment methods, are the least safe:

For oil, the short answer is: truck worse than train worse than pipeline worse than boat (Oilprice.com). But that’s only for human death and property destruction. For the amount of oil spilled per billion-ton-miles, it’s truck worse than pipeline worse than rail worse than boat (Congressional Research Service). Even more different is for environmental impact (dominated by impact to aquatic habitat), where it’s boat worse than pipeline worse than truck worse than rail.

According to Forbes, their safety analysis was based on multiple factors:

• Human death and injury
• Destruction to property
• Spillage of oil per billion-ton-miles
• Environmental factors

The dangers of transporting oil via trucks are well documented

Transportation accidents make up a considerable percentage of oil and gas fatalities, both in the oil fields and on the road. When these trucks crash, toxic liquids and gas can spill or leak out, leading to burn injuries or toxic inhalation. Certain products are flammable enough to explode, which can lead to burns, crushing injuries, or death. Drivers often work long hours, especially since oil and gas is typically exempt from HOS regulations, which can lead to collisions and erratic driving. The trucks themselves must be kept maintained and safe; failure to do so can lead to crashes, as well.

Overall, money plays a bigger role than safety

The bottom line for transportation, according to Forbes, isn’t jobs – it’s money. Transportation methods will likely be evaluated on the cost to transport the energy products versus the cost to repair any damages and the cost of human life.

At Cunningham & Mears, our Oklahoma City oilfield accident lawyers represent all victims of oilfield accidents including truckers and any person involved in the transportation of oil, crude oil, natural gas, or other energy products. We understand that nothing will ever replace the loss of a loved one. When a death occurs, we fight to obtain the maximum amount the law permits. For survivors, we demand compensation for all your medical bills, lost income, physical pain, emotional damages, scarring and disfigurement. To discuss your oilfield or oil transportation case, call our trusted Oklahoma City lawyers at 405.232.1212 or use our contact form to schedule an appointment.

Meta Description. All four ways of transporting energy products have inherent dangers. If you or a loved one is hurt in an oilfield accident, call Cunningham & Mears for experienced help today.