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Injured While Operating Heavy Equipment in Texas? Know Your Rights.

10.26.2023
Safety engineering and a helmet resting on the details of the co
Heavy equipment operators work some of the most dangerous jobs in Texas. Bulldozers, excavators, cranes, forklifts โ€” these arenโ€™t just machines. Theyโ€™re hazards if not handled or maintained properly. And when accidents happen, the consequences are serious.If you were injured while operating heavy machinery on a construction site, oilfield, or industrial job, this page is for you. Weโ€™ll explain what legal options you have, who could be held responsible, and how to protect your future.

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  • Poor maintenance or outdated machines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 โ€” and often caused by someone elseโ€™s negligence.

What Kind of Compensation Can You Recover?

If youโ€™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 โ€” like a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner.

Can You Sue or Is It Just Workers’ Comp?

Texas doesnโ€™t require private employers to carry workersโ€™ comp. If your employer doesnโ€™t have it โ€” or a third party was involved โ€” you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Hereโ€™s how it typically breaks down:

  • Workersโ€™ comp: Limited benefits, but no need to prove fault
  • Third-party claim: More compensation, but you must prove negligence

Weโ€™ll help you figure out what applies in your situation and pursue the best path forward.

Weโ€™ve Handled Cases Like Yours

At Cesar Ornelas Law, weโ€™ve represented Texans whoโ€™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:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately
  2. Report the injury to your employer or supervisor
  3. Document the scene and equipment (if possible)
  4. Donโ€™t sign anything from your employer or their insurer
  5. 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 shouldnโ€™t have to figure this out alone. Weโ€™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.

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