Jury Awards Okla. Couple $3.6M in Damages for Oilfield Accident

A federal jury has awarded an Elk City, Okla., couple $3.6 million in damages as a result of the husband’s injury in an oil-field accident last summer.

Juan and Veronica Lara sued Grey Wolf Drilling Co. after a pipe fell on his head July 4 at a Roger Mills County oil rig operated by the Houston-based company.

The parties agreed Grey Wolf was responsible for the accident, but it was up to a federal jury in Oklahoma City to decide on damages.

Lara’s attorney, Howard Berry III, says Lara suffered a brain injury and vision loss in the accident and probably won’t be able to work again.

Officials for the company say they are disappointed with the amount of damages awarded by the jury, but understood the panel wanted to ensure Lara was cared for.

Grey Wolf said in a statement the company “truly regrets that the underlying incident occurred and wishes the best for the Lara family.”

Information from: The Oklahoman, www.newsok.com