Texas Heavy Equipment Injury Lawyer

Heavy equipment injuries can have devastating consequences, including permanent disabilities or even fatalities. In Texas, where industries such as construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing regularly rely on heavy machinery, the risk of a costly and life-altering injury is high. Below we discuss how these injuries happen and what your rights and legal options might be. If you or a loved one was harmed by malfunctioning equipment, negligence at work, or the employer’s failure to provide a safe environment, contact the Gilbert Adams Law Offices in Beaumont to explore your options with a skilled and experienced Texas personal injury lawyer.

Common Causes of Heavy Equipment Injuries

Heavy equipment injuries can occur due to a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:

• Operator Error: Lack of training, fatigue, or negligence can lead to operator mistakes that result in injuries to others.
• Equipment Malfunction: Defective machinery or failure to maintain equipment properly can cause unexpected failures and serious injuries.
• Unsafe Work Environment: Inadequate safety measures, poor lighting, or cluttered work areas can contribute to mishaps.
• Improper Loading: Overloading or incorrectly loading equipment can lead to tipping or collapse.

Types of Heavy Equipment Injuries

Injuries related to heavy equipment misuse or defects can be severe and life-altering, including:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can occur from falls or being struck by heavy objects.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can lead to paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
• Broken Bones: The sheer weight of heavy equipment can easily break bones upon impact.
• Amputations: Limbs can be crushed or severed in accidents involving heavy machinery.
• Burns and Lacerations: Explosions, fires, or sharp edges can cause serious burns and cuts.

Legal Recourse for Victims of Heavy Equipment Injuries

Victims of heavy equipment accidents may have several legal options to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses:

• Workers’ Compensation: If the injury occurred while on the job, you might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which can cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. Not all Texas employers subscribe to workers’ comp in Texas, though.
• Personal Injury Lawsuit: If the employer is a non-subscriber to workers’ compensation or the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as an equipment manufacturer or a third-party contractor, you could file a personal injury lawsuit seeking damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost income, and more.
• Product Liability Claim: If a defective piece of equipment caused the accident, you might have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor. Texas product liability law covers design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn or marketing defects regarding heavy equipment and machinery.

The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a heavy equipment injury can be overwhelming, and seeking financial compensation and justice during this difficult time can be stressful or impossible without professional legal help. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:

• Investigating the Injury: Your attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to determine the cause of the injury, identify liable parties, and document the full impact of the injury on your life.
• Handling Insurance Claims: Your lawyer can deal with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement.
• Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Gilbert Adams Law Offices for Legal Assistance

At the Gilbert Adams Law Offices, we understand the complexities of heavy equipment injury cases. Our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling injury claims in a variety of industrial settings and are dedicated to advocating for the rights of accident victims throughout Texas. If you or a loved one has been injured in a heavy equipment accident in Houston, Galveston, or throughout Texas, call our Beaumont law office today at 409-835-3000 for a free consultation to explore your legal options and discuss how we can help you on your path to recovery.