Houston, Texas, has a booming economy driven by industries like oil and gas, real estate development, and infrastructure expansion. As a result of its rapid growth in the last couple of years, construction sites, roadways, housing developments, and towering oil and gas refineries have seen constant growth. With this expansion comes an increased presence of heavy machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, skid steers, excavators, and forklifts. These powerful machines pose a significant risk to construction workers, contractors, and bystanders.
Big machinery accidents can result in devastating injuries, including crushed limbs, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and even fatalities. When these accidents occur, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and determine if the accident was caused by equipment failure, improper maintenance, lack of safety protocols, or employer negligence. Injured workers, contractors, and bystanders may be entitled to compensation through worker’s compensation claims, personal injury lawsuits, or third-party liability claims.
The Ghuneim Law Firm is dedicated to leveraging years of experience to guide victims and their families through the complexities of their legal rights, helping them secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and financial relief during challenging times.
What Types of Heavy Machinery Are Usually Involved in Accidents
- Cranes and bulldozers
- Excavators and forklifts
- Backhoes and Back-end and front-end loaders
- Compactors and Drilling, punching, and shearing equipment
- Cement mixers, road graders, and rollers
Common Types of Heavy Machinery Industries and Accidents
Every year, thousands of workers in the United States are injured on the job. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA) noted over 19,000 inpatient hospitalizations and amputations between 2022 and 2023. The top five industry sectors were:
- Agriculture and Forestry
- Mining and Oil and Gas Extraction
- Utilities
- Construction
- Manufacturing
Construction and manufacturing industries have the highest hospitalizations and amputations year after year due to their nature of operating heavy machinery. OSHA reported that 23% of employees were caught in or compressed by equipment and objects, and 25% were caused by machinery.
Reports showed that the most common causes for accidents in these industries were:
- Falling while trying to get on or off heavy machinery
- Getting pinned between a wall and a piece of machinery
- Getting dragged by a piece of machinery due to loose clothing or improper safety code
- Getting run over by a large piece of machinery due to blind spots
- Being crushed underneath a structure
For example, a construction worker was assigned to guide an excavator operator while repositioning a concrete barrier. Due to poor communication and limited visibility, the operator mistakenly moved the excavator’s arm too close to the worker and crushed him between the machine and the concrete barrier, resulting in severe crush injuries to his pelvis. An investigation by our law firm determined that the company had poor procedures and safety protocols, which allowed for a successful personal injury claim against the construction company.
In another example, a forklift operator received a mandate from his employer to carry loads too heavy to meet productivity quotas. As a result, the load tipped the forklift over, causing significant bodily damage to the operator. Our law firm’s investigation successfully cited safety violations and sought compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help Me?
Our attorneys at the Ghuneim Law Firm have successfully assisted thousands of clients in Texas. We approach heavy machinery personal injury claims by:
- Conducting a thorough investigation through site inspections, collecting evidence, and performing witness interviews
- Establishing liability by identifying responsible parties such as employers, contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. We also review safety violations set out by OSHA regulations
- Secure medical and financial evidence by gathering all medical records and evaluating the full extent of the injuries, treatments, and long-term prognosis
- Negotiating with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlement offers
By leveraging our expertise, resources, and negotiation tactics, we will help you secure the justice and compensation your injury deserves.
What Do I Do Next?
At Ghuneim Law Firm, we understand the complex legal nature of heavy machinery injuries. We are committed to advocating for the rights of all injured individuals and their families. If you or someone you know has suffered an injury, we can help guide you. Contact the Ghuneim Law Firm at 833-GHU-NEIM or at 281-487-8929 to schedule a free consultation.