Martinez Oil Refinery Accident Lawyer

Trusted Results from Real Clients

We’ve helped injured workers and families recover compensation for a wide range of injuries, from chemical burns to catastrophic workplace explosions. Here’s what some of our clients have said:

“These are top-notch attorneys. They always return calls, keep you informed. And when you have questions always do a call back.” – Former Client

"Appreciate all the hard work and getting a resolution in my case in a timely manner." – Former Client

We’re committed to results—and to making sure every client feels heard, respected, and supported throughout the legal process.

Read more client testimonials.

Local Refineries We Work With

Our firm represents refinery workers throughout Contra Costa County, with extensive experience handling claims involving:

• Shell Martinez Refinery (Martinez, CA)
• Marathon Martinez Renewable Fuels Facility, formerly Tesoro Golden Eagle Refinery (Avon/Martinez, CA) 

These facilities are essential to California’s energy infrastructure—but they also pose significant risks to the people who keep them operating. Whether you’re a pipefitter, welder, operator, contractor, or other worker injured in a Martinez refinery, we’re here to help.

Refinery Accidents & Injuries We Handle

Refinery work combines hazardous substances, extreme pressure systems, and volatile environments. Even routine tasks can lead to serious injuries.

We handle refinery injury claims involving:

• Chemical exposure (benzene, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, etc.)
• Burns and scalds from fires, explosions, or hot machinery
• Slip and fall accidents, especially in slick or elevated areas
• Crush injuries from pipes, equipment, or structural collapse
• Amputations and severe lacerations from mechanical hazards
• Repetitive strain injuries from heavy lifting or confined space work

We also represent workers who develop occupational illnesses—including respiratory disease, neurological conditions, or cancer—linked to long-term exposure.

Denied Workers’ Compensation Claims? We Can Help

Refinery injury claims are often denied or disputed, especially when:

• There’s no clear documentation of the incident
• The injury developed over time (e.g., toxic exposure, repetitive use)
• The employer tries to claim it happened off-site or isn’t work-related
• A contractor or labor firm disputes responsibility

If your workers’ comp claim has been denied, don’t give up. We’ve helped countless refinery workers reverse denials and recover benefits through the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) process.

Learn more about how we help with denied claims.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Refinery Workers in Martinez

If you were injured while working at a refinery in Martinez, you may be entitled to the following benefits under California’s workers’ comp laws:

• Medical treatment (covered 100%)
• Temporary disability benefits for missed work during recovery
• Permanent disability compensation if you’re left with lasting impairment
• Job displacement vouchers for retraining if you can’t return to the same work
• Death benefits for families of workers killed in refinery incidents

Even if your employer is a third-party contractor, you still likely qualify for benefits. We’ll help confirm your employment relationship and file all necessary claims.

Do You Also Have a Personal Injury Case?

If your injury was caused by someone other than your employer—such as a negligent contractor, equipment manufacturer, or vendor—you may have a separate personal injury claim in addition to workers’ compensation.

Our attorneys can evaluate whether a third-party claim is available, which could allow you to recover for:

• Pain and suffering
• Full wage loss
• Future medical care not covered by workers’ comp

We pursue both workers’ comp and personal injury claims in refinery cases and can guide you through all available options.

What Makes Refinery Injury Claims So Difficult?

Many workers don’t realize how complex refinery-related workers’ compensation cases can be until they’re already facing pushback. These are not routine claims. Between the size of the companies involved, the number of contractors onsite, and the severity of the injuries, your case may involve:

• Multiple employers or jobsite stakeholders disputing liability
• Insurance companies working aggressively to limit payouts
• Delayed diagnoses or evolving conditions (e.g., chemical exposure effects)
• Higher-than-average costs for medical care and long-term support

In our experience, refinery companies and their insurers are often quick to deflect blame—and slow to offer the full benefits you deserve. That’s why it’s important to work with a legal team that understands how to build a strong case from day one.

We know how to uncover evidence from safety logs, equipment maintenance records, and witness statements to prove your claim and hold all responsible parties accountable.

How We Help Injured Refinery Workers 

From the moment you call, our team gets to work protecting your rights and maximizing your recovery.

1. We investigate your accident and gather evidence from the refinery site, witnesses, and medical providers
2. We file and manage your claim, ensuring all forms and deadlines are handled correctly
3. We fight denials and delays, whether through negotiation or the WCAB process
4. We take your case to court if needed, with experienced trial lawyers ready to go the distance

Whether your injury was traumatic or developed over time, we have the tools and experience to help.

Call For a FREE Consultation: (888) 740-6434

At Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, we’re proud to represent the workers who keep Contra Costa County running. If you or someone you love was injured at the Shell or Marathon refinery—or while performing contract work on any Martinez-area job site—contact us today.

Hablamos español. We represent Spanish-speaking refinery workers across the Bay Area.