Baton Rogue

Industrial Accident Attorneys

Manufacturing & Factory Worker Lawyers in Baton Rouge

Heavy machinery, noxious chemicals, volatile gases—these are the realities of thousands of industrial worksites across Louisiana. Industrial workers put themselves at risk every day to make a living, but no job is worth a life. When someone is injured at work, the companies responsible have an obligation to compensate them for their losses. When companies refuse to do the right thing, people call Clayton, Frugé & Ward.

Our firm handles industrial claims involving:

Our Baton Rouge industrial accident attorneys fight for the financial and medical relief injured plaintiffs need, including 100% coverage of medical costs, current and long-term wage replacement, and compensation for physical pain and emotional suffering. Our attorneys have recovered more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements. Our one goal is getting injured workers and their families everything owed to them by negligent companies or bad faith insurers.

Call (225) 209-9943 or send us a message to schedule a free consultation. We’ll discuss your legal options and how we can help.

Understanding Baton Rouge's Industrial Accident Landscape

Baton Rouge has a thriving industrial sector, with numerous chemical plants, refineries, and manufacturing hubs located along the Mississippi River and throughout the region. As a result, industrial accidents here vary significantly in type and severity as workers face unique hazards, from chemical exposure to fires, explosions, and electrocution. 

Louisiana has its own labor laws, along with OSHA regulations, that industrial companies must adhere to in order to operate safely and legally. However, compliance varies, and sometimes companies may not follow through with their safety obligations. Unfortunately, this greatly increases the risk of accidents. 

Common factors that contribute to industrial accidents in Baton Rouge include:

• Noncompliance with safety standards by companies or contractors
• Unsafe or outdated equipment, which can malfunction or lack proper safeguards
• Poor training, leading to improper use of machinery or handling of hazardous materials
• Inadequate emergency response protocols during accidents, spills, or fires

Employers and site managers are responsible for staying current with both federal and state-specific safety guidelines. When regulations are ignored or improperly enforced, the risk to worker safety increases dramatically, and those responsible can be held accountable.

How Our Industrial Accident Lawyers in Baton Rouge Can Help

Often, those responsible for industrial accidents have virtually limitless resources. Large companies typically have an army of lawyers, adjusters, and staff dedicated to a single purpose: making sure you get as little as possible. Because of this, it's incredibly difficult to get what you need on your own. But, with an experienced and aggressive litigator in your corner—a law firm that’s dealt with these defendants before and knows what it takes to beat them—you put yourself in the best possible position when it comes to winning your case and, most importantly, securing the compensation you need to move forward.

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we have a long history of success. We've recovered:  

• $171 million for a plant explosion that injured multiple workers
• $60 million for another plant explosion that injured multiple workers
• $46 million for a fatal accident involving workers engulfed in clay on a vessel
• $37 million for a dock worker who lost a leg in a job-related accident
• $18 million for four workers who survived a devastating plant explosion

The complexities of industrial accident cases require a deep understanding of not only the legal nuances of these claims but also of the specific challenges posed by different kinds of industries and working environments. Each accident type, whether it's related to a factory malfunction or chemical exposure, has unique repercussions that need careful consideration. Our firm stays up to date on the latest industry safety standards, evaluating every detail to build a strong case. Our extensive resources enable us to effectively counteract corporate legal tactics, leveling the playing field and providing you with the aggressive representation you deserve.

We help clients through industrial accident claims in Baton Rouge by offering:

• Thorough investigations to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a compelling case
• Knowledge of Louisiana legal frameworks that impact compensation and liability
• Experience handling complex insurance negotiations with local and national carriers
• Clear communication about every step in the legal process so clients can make informed decisions

Some lawyers balk at tough cases like these, but not us. Our Baton Rouge industrial accident attorneys have a reputation for taking cases other firms turn down. Our confidence comes from our willingness to invest whatever it takes to win each case: thorough investigation, meticulous planning, and aggressive advocacy. It’s why our firm has a history of securing record-setting results.

Common Industrial Worksites & Hazards in Baton Rouge

The city of Baton Rouge is home to a range of industrial worksites, each presenting unique dangers to the workers who keep these sites running. From sprawling chemical plants near the Mississippi River to manufacturing facilities and shipping centers along I-10, industrial employees face exposure to hazardous materials, heavy machinery, and dangerous environments every single day. The risk of accidents is high due to complex machinery, long shifts, and the presence of combustible chemicals.

Our team understands the distinctive challenges that come with each type of industrial workplace. For example, plant workers must contend with the constant presence of pressurized systems, while refinery employees often work with flammable substances. Frequent activity near highways and transportation hubs increases the risk of vehicle-related incidents. When these hazards converge, it can create serious threats to worker safety—even when employers strive to follow guidelines and protocols.

Baton Rouge's industrial sites expose workers to a variety of hazards, including:

• Chemical exposure and burns from leaks, spills, or equipment failures
• Machinery entanglement in conveyor systems, moving parts, or malfunctioning equipment
• Falls and dropped objects from catwalks, scaffolding, or warehouse shelving
• Explosion risks in chemical storage or near active processing units

As one of Baton Rouge's most trusted industrial accident law firms, we have experience handling complex cases involving plant explosions, finery fires, transportation accidents, and other types of industrial incidents. Our deep familiarity with local industrial settings, such as the Port of Greater Baton Rouge and facilities along the river, helps us shape our approach and effectively advocate for clients facing injuries in these critical industries.

First Steps After an Industrial Accident in Baton Rouge

If you or a loved one had a serious accident at an industrial worksite, this is a critical time. The next few steps you take could shape your recovery and even the rest of your life. Fortunately, the first few steps are generally the same, regardless of job, employer, or injury. Once those steps are over and you realize what you're up against, you may want a lawyer's help.

Here are the steps you need to follow:

• Seek medical help
• Notify your employer of the injury, within 24 hours if possible
• Follow the doctor’s orders
• Call an attorney

You may be asked to see the company's preferred doctor, but you have the right to see your own doctor if you're unhappy with their care. Whatever medical care you get, it’s vital that you get seen quickly—the best way to protect your health is by receiving thorough medical intervention as quickly as possible.

If you can, try to collect and/or save any evidence from the accident, as this can be crucial for any future legal proceedings. Photographs, witness statements, and official reports often form the backbone of a personal injury case. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we guide clients through this process, ensuring nothing is overlooked. Our attorneys can help gather evidence, protect your rights, and put together a powerful case on your behalf.

Why You Need an Experienced Industrial Accident Attorney in Baton Rouge

The injuries you’re facing could cost more than your family can afford to pay. You didn’t deserve what happened to you, nor do you deserve to spend the rest of your life paying for it. The party that caused your accident should pay for the losses you’ve endured, but, in our experience, they typically need to be brought before a jury before they do the right thing.

If you want a chance at the resources necessary to rebuild your life, it's wise to have a proven trial law firm on your side. Because Clayton, Frugé & Ward has secured over a billion dollars in verdicts and settlements, companies know to take us seriously—which means they’ll know to take your claim seriously.

It all begins with a free case consultation. Call (225) 209-9943 or send us an online message to schedule a time to talk with a Baton Rouge industrial accident attorney.

Baton Rogue Industrial Accident FAQ

What Should I Do After Being Injured in an Industrial Accident?

After an industrial accident, your first step should be to seek medical attention, even if you think your injuries are minor. Immediate medical evaluation can allow providers to detect injuries that are not obviously visible. It also provides essential documentation for any future injury claims. 

Once you have received adequate medical care, notify your employer about the incident as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. Documentation is key. Gather and keep important evidence, such as incident reports, medical evaluations, receipts, and any communication with your employer or their insurers.

It's also crucial to consult with a qualified attorney who understands the complexities of industrial accident cases. An attorney at our firm can guide you on the necessary legal steps and help you understand your rights and options under the law. 

What Common Defenses Might Companies Use Against an Industrial Accident Claim?

Companies often employ several defenses in industrial accident cases to mitigate or deny their liability. One common argument is contributory negligence, where the defendant claims that the injured party failed to adhere to safety protocols or was otherwise negligent, thereby contributing to their own injury. They may also argue that the accident was an unavoidable incident, beyond anyone's control, or claim that they complied with safety standards, shifting blame to unforeseen product malfunctions or third-party negligence. An experienced attorney can anticipate these strategies and prepare a detailed case that highlights negligence or lapses in safety that contributed to the accident. Our team conducts exhaustive investigations to uncover any oversight or misconduct by companies to counter these defenses effectively.

What Types of Compensation Are Available for Industrial Accident Survivors?

Survivors of industrial accidents can claim several types of compensation depending on the nature and severity of their injuries. This includes medical expenses for immediate and ongoing treatments, rehabilitation costs, and compensation for lost wages or loss of future earning potential. Additionally, victims may be entitled to damages for pain and suffering or for reduced quality of life.

These claims often involve complex calculations, especially when predicting future losses or needs for severe injuries. Our legal team is proficient in assessing these factors to ensure that claims reflect the full scope of the incident's financial, physical, and emotional impacts on our clients' lives. We always advocate for the maximum compensation allowed.

How Do Louisiana's Industrial Laws Impact Your Case?

Louisiana has stringent labor and safety laws designed to protect workers. Understanding these regulations can significantly impact the outcome of an industrial accident case. For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards that employers must follow, and deviations from these can form the basis of a negligence claim.

Additionally, Louisiana's unique workers' compensation statutes play a critical role in legal strategies. Our team is well-versed in how these state-specific regulations influence proceedings and ensures that our advocacy reflects a deep understanding of all relevant local legal frameworks.