-
October 26, 2023
- Blog
- By Cesar Ornelas
Common Causes of Heavy Equipment Injuries in Texas
- Equipment malfunctions or defects
- Inadequate safety training or supervision
- Poor maintenance or outdated machines
- Unsafe job site conditions or lack of signage
- Being struck by or crushed between equipment
- Falls from equipment or scaffolding
Many of these injuries are preventable — and often caused by someone else’s negligence.
What Kind of Compensation Can You Recover?
If you’ve been injured operating heavy equipment, you may be eligible for one or more of the following types of compensation:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and future income
- Pain and suffering
- Disability or permanent impairment
- Wrongful death (for surviving family members)
This is especially true if someone other than your direct employer is responsible — like a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner.
Can You Sue or Is It Just Workers’ Comp?
Texas doesn’t require private employers to carry workers’ comp. If your employer doesn’t have it — or a third party was involved — you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Here’s how it typically breaks down:
- Workers’ comp: Limited benefits, but no need to prove fault
- Third-party claim: More compensation, but you must prove negligence
We’ll help you figure out what applies in your situation and pursue the best path forward.
We’ve Handled Cases Like Yours
At Cesar Ornelas Law, we’ve represented Texans who’ve been seriously injured while operating:
- Cranes on commercial job sites
- Forklifts in warehouses
- Backhoes at residential construction projects
- Oilfield equipment in West Texas
We know how to investigate, who to go after, and how to fight for maximum compensation.
What to Do After a Heavy Equipment Injury
After any work-related equipment injury, take these steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the injury to your employer or supervisor
- Document the scene and equipment (if possible)
- Don’t sign anything from your employer or their insurer
- Contact an experienced injury attorney
Fast action can preserve evidence and make or break your claim.
Talk to a Heavy Equipment Injury Lawyer in Texas
You shouldn’t have to figure this out alone. We’ll investigate your claim, explain your rights, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call Cesar Ornelas Law today or contact us online for a free consultation.
