Forklifts, bulldozers, cranes, and other heavy machinery are vital to industries like construction, warehousing, and manufacturing. But when these powerful machines are misused, poorly maintained, or operated by untrained personnel, the results can be devastating.
At McCallum Law Firm, we represent injured workers and contractors across the Dallas-Fort Worth area who have suffered serious harm from forklift and heavy equipment accidents. If you’ve been hurt on the job, you may have more legal options than you think.
The Hidden Dangers of Heavy Equipment
Operating or working near heavy machinery presents daily hazards. Common causes of accidents include:
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Untrained or negligent operators
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Faulty brakes or hydraulic systems
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Blind spots and inadequate warnings
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Overloading or improper use of equipment
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Falling loads or collapsing structures
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Reversing accidents and runovers
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Inadequate supervision or safety protocols
Even with safety measures in place, one moment of carelessness or a mechanical defect can result in life-changing injuries.
Common Forklift and Machinery-Related Injuries
Injuries from forklifts and other heavy equipment tend to be severe due to the size and force involved. These can include:
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Crushed limbs or amputations
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Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
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Brain injuries from being struck or thrown
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Internal bleeding or organ damage
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Broken bones and lacerations
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Fatalities from rollovers or being pinned
Some injuries result from direct contact, while others stem from secondary hazards like falls from elevated work platforms or exposure to hazardous materials.
Can You Sue If You're Hurt on the Job?
If you're injured while working, your options depend on the circumstances and your employer's insurance situation.
1. Workers' Compensation
Texas does not require all employers to carry workers' comp. If your employer does have coverage, you may be eligible for:
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Medical care
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Temporary or permanent disability benefits
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Death benefits for surviving families
However, you cannot sue your employer in most cases if you receive workers' comp.
2. Non-Subscriber Employers
If your employer does not carry workers' comp (a common situation in Texas), you can file a personal injury lawsuit directly against them if their negligence caused your injury.
3. Third-Party Liability
You may also be able to sue a third party such as:
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Equipment manufacturers (for defective machinery)
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Subcontractors or site managers
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Property owners who failed to maintain safe conditions
At McCallum Law Firm, we investigate every angle to identify all potentially liable parties.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
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Lost wages and future earning potential
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Pain and suffering
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Permanent disability or disfigurement
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Wrongful death damages
We work with vocational experts, medical specialists, and safety professionals to build strong, evidence-backed cases.
Why Choose McCallum Law Firm?
Forklift and machinery accident cases require a deep understanding of workplace safety regulations, OSHA standards, and liability laws. At McCallum Law Firm, we bring:
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Decades of personal injury experience
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Dallas-based legal insight with knowledge of local job sites and contractors
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Aggressive pursuit of full compensation, whether through negotiation or trial
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No fees unless we win – you don’t pay us out of pocket
You’ve already suffered enough—let us handle the legal burden so you can focus on recovery.
