San Antonio Industrial Accident Attorney

Experienced Work Injury Lawyers, Fighting for Your Rights

Industrial jobs power our state's economy, from oil and gas to manufacturing, construction, and shipping. While these sectors are crucial to our area's growth, industrial jobs are also among the most dangerous of all occupations. When something goes wrong on a construction site, at an oil refinery, or in any other industrial setting, the consequences can be devastating. If you or someone you love has been involved in an industrial accident, you’re probably dealing with a lot right now: medical bills, missed work, physical challenges, emotional distress, and a whole lot of questions.

At The Warrior Law Firm, our San Antonio industrial accident attorneys are here to explain your rights and legal options. You could be entitled to financial compensation, and we're ready to guide you through the process, make sense of your options, and fight for the full, fair recovery you deserve. We work hard to make sure complicated legal issues are clear and easy to understand, so you can focus on healing while we take care of the rest.

For a free consultation, call us today at (210) 598-5006 or contact us online.

What Is an Industrial Accident?

In the simplest terms, an industrial accident is any accident or traumatic event that occurs in an industrial setting, such as construction, manufacturing, oil and gas production, or agriculture. These incidents may involve anything from slips and falls to contact with heavy machinery, toxic exposure, or explosions. These accidents are almost always preventable. They happen when safety procedures break down, when employers cut corners, or when large companies prioritize profits over people. 

Examples of Industrial Accidents

Because so many different jobs fall under the umbrella of “industrial occupations,” there are many different types of industrial accidents that can (and frequently do) occur. Some of the most common include: 

• Machinery malfunctions and equipment failures
• Explosions or fires
• Exposure to toxic chemicals or fumes
• Falls from scaffolding or platforms
• Electrical shocks and arc flash incidents
• Crushing injuries from forklifts, cranes, or other vehicles
• Confined space accidents
• Repetitive motion or overexertion injuries

In an industrial setting, even one small mistake can lead to a life-changing, catastrophic injury. Under Texas law, people involved in workplace accidents have the right to seek compensation for the effects of their injuries, from related medical expenses to lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering. Whether through workers' compensation or a third-party personal injury claim, you have options, and our team can help.

In San Antonio, Industrial Work Comes With Unique Risks

San Antonio is home to a wide range of industrial operations, including major oilfield services, manufacturing plants, construction projects, and logistics hubs. These industries come with inherent hazards, and in Texas, the law doesn't always work the way you might expect.

When it comes to seeking compensation after an industrial accident in San Antonio, here are some things that can complicate your case:

• Texas is the only state that doesn't require employers to carry workers' comp. That means some injured workers can file a personal injury lawsuit directly against their employer or another party, especially if negligence was involved.
• OSHA violations are common in high-risk industries across Bexar County, and instances are likely under-reported. Common violations include improper training, inadequate safety equipment, and poor lockout/tagout procedures. 
• Contractors and subcontractors are everywhere on industrial sites, which can make liability complicated. Multiple parties may be responsible for an accident, making it more challenging to determine who is liable for your damages.

At The Warrior Law Firm, our industrial accident lawyers in San Antonio are well-versed in Texas personal injury and workers' compensation laws. We know how to build powerful, evidence-based claims that clearly demonstrate liability, as well as the full extent of our clients' injuries and losses. What's more, we are not afraid to take on large corporations and insurance companies, and we have the track record to prove it.

Common Industrial Accident Injuries

Some injuries heal with time; others leave a lasting mark on your body, your career, and your future. Due to the dangerous nature of the work, industrial accidents tend to lead to especially serious injuries and, in the worst cases, death.

Here are some of the most common injuries we see in these cases:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Severe burns
• Amputations and crushed limbs
• Respiratory damage from toxic exposure
• Broken bones and internal injuries
• Vision or hearing loss
• Electrocutions
• PTSD or emotional trauma

These injuries often require extensive medical care and time away from work. If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you shouldn’t be left to deal with the consequences on your own.

What Compensation Can You Recover After an Industrial Accident?

Every case is different, but in general, an industrial accident claim may include compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life

The exact amount depends on your injuries, your ability to return to work, and the circumstances of the accident. Our skilled San Antonio industrial accident lawyers can evaluate your case and explain what you may be entitled to pursue.

How Workers’ Compensation Affects Industrial Accident Claims in Texas

In Texas, employers are generally not required to have workers' compensation insurance. If your employer does carry workers’ compensation, however, you may be limited to filing a workers’ comp claim. This is because workers' comp is a no-fault system, meaning you don't have to prove anyone was negligent in order to receive certain benefits, including medical expenses and partial wage replacement. However, workers' compensation is limited and may not be enough to cover the full costs of an industrial accident.

In Texas, workers' compensation benefits can cover:

• Medical bills
• A portion of your lost wages
• Disability benefits

Workers' comp does not provide any compensation for pain and suffering, and the payments are often far less than what you'd get in a lawsuit. If a third party (like a contractor or equipment manufacturer) played a role in your accident, you might still be able to sue in addition to collecting workers’ comp.

If your employer does not carry workers’ compensation insurance, you may have the right to file a nonsubscriber claim. This is a lawsuit that holds the company directly accountable. Texas nonsubscriber cases can result in significantly higher recoveries for victims, though specific outcomes are never guaranteed. 

Why You Should Call a San Antonio Industrial Accident Lawyer

Industrial accident cases aren’t like other injury cases. They’re complex, they often involve multiple liable parties, and the stakes are usually very high. Insurance companies and employers may try to shift blame, deny liability, or get you to accept a lowball settlement. That’s where we come in.

At The Warrior Law Firm, we’ve helped countless workers and families get the support they need after devastating accidents. We know how to:

• Investigate the accident and determine who is liable
• Deal with employers, insurers, and third parties
• Maximize your recovery through negotiation or trial
• Explain every step of the process in plain English (or Spanish)

If you’ve been injured in an industrial accident, you don't have to face the future alone. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way and fight for the fair recovery you deserve.

San Antonio Industrial Accident FAQ

What should I do after an industrial accident?

The first thing you should do after an industrial accident is seek immediate medical attention. Many industrial injuries require extensive treatment or hospitalization. Even if your injuries do not seem severe at first, always see a medical professional to receive the diagnosis and care you need. 

It's also important to document everything as much as you can. If possible, take pictures of the scene where the accident occurred, as well as any relevant circumstances, such as broken equipment, missing warning signs, or poorly maintained PPE (personal protective equipment). If you are unable to document the actual scene where the event took place, you should still be sure to document your injuries and all medical care you receive. Ask for copies of your medical records, hang onto receipts, and keep a journal detailing your physical and emotional recovery. All of this can be invaluable evidence for your future claim.

Notify your employer about the incident as soon as possible. Depending on whether you file for workers' comp or pursue a third-party personal injury lawsuit, certain deadlines for reporting your injury may affect your right to file. The sooner you tell your employer about what happened, the better. It's best to do this in writing (e.g., by email, letter, etc.) so that you have a paper trail documenting your communications with your employer. 

As soon as possible, reach out to an industrial accident attorney in San Antonio. These cases are rarely straightforward, and an attorney can help you protect your rights and take the next steps in the legal process. 

Can I sue my employer for an industrial injury in Texas?

Yes, in some cases, you may be able to sue your employer directly after an industrial accident. For example, if your employer is a nonsubscriber, meaning they don't carry workers' compensation insurance, you could be eligible to sue them for damages. If a third party, such as a product manufacturer or subcontractor, was involved in the accident, you could also have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit, either in addition to or in place of a workers' compensation claim. 

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

You could still have a claim under Texas's “modified comparative negligence” rule. As long as you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover compensation, but the amount you will be able to recover will be reduced by whatever percentage of fault is assigned to you. For example, if you are seeking $100,000 in damages, but you are found to be 20% at fault, that amount will be reduced by 20%, or $20,000. This means that you would only be eligible to recover $80,000 in damages.

How long do I have to file an Industrial Accident claim?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. So, if you are filing a third-party lawsuit or a nonsubscriber claim, you have two years to do so. The statute of limitations for workers' compensation claims is just one year from the date of injury, but you must notify your employer of the incident within 30 days to protect your right to workers' compensation benefits. 

How much does it cost to hire an Industrial Accident Lawyer in San Antonio? 

Because we offer contingency fees, you pay nothing unless we win. Our firm handles the upfront costs and only collects a portion of the total recovery once we have secured a settlement or verdict on your behalf. This means there are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs when you hire our team. 

Talk to a San Antonio Industrial Accident Attorney Today

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious workplace injury, you deserve answers, support, and a team that’s ready to fight for your future. At The Warrior Law Firm, we make the legal process clear and manageable, so you don’t have to deal with it alone.

Call (210) 598-5006 today to schedule your free consultation with one of our San Antonio industrial accident lawyers. We’re ready to listen, help, and fight for you.