A Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help You Understand Your Rights

Types of Construction Accidents

Construction accidents are considered workplace injuries. Unfortunately, accidents that occur on a construction site can be catastrophic, resulting in serious injury or even death. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 985 construction accident fatalities in 2015. Additionally, nearly four out of 100 men and women suffered a work-related injury that resulted in job restrictions, transfers, or time off from work.

Even with strict safety regulations in place, construction work continues to be one of the most dangerous professions. Common construction site incidents include:

• Falls: The most common type of construction accident injuries, falls can occur for a number of reasons. For example, if a worker steps backwards without looking while standing on a structure, the result can be catastrophic. Stairwells can be dangerous as well, and should always have guardrails to prevent unnecessary accidents.
• Electrocutions: Power lines and exposed electrical sources can result in electrocution. Specific regulations should always be followed, and electrical engineers should be present on the job site whenever necessary.
• Struck by an Object: This can occur if a worker is struck by a construction vehicle or a falling piece of equipment. Many of these accidents can be avoided if employees receive proper training and exercise appropriate caution.
• Gas Explosions: Due to unfinished piping and exposed electrical components, fires or explosions can occur.
• Crush Injuries: This type of injury occurs when a part of a construction worker’s body—or his or her entire body—is caught between two objects.

Accidents that occur on a construction site can be catastrophic, resulting in serious injury or even death.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

There are numerous factors that can result in construction site accidents. Some of the most common causes include:

• Damaged Equipment: Construction equipment and machinery should be up to code and in proper working condition.
• Improper Structures: Appropriate attention should be given when assembling structures such as scaffolding. Carelessness could result in collapse, causing injury to anyone standing on it.
• Unsafe Ladders: When using ladders on a construction site, they should be an appropriate height and be opened completely to avoid injury.
• Uneven or Slick Flooring: Damaged or wet walking surfaces can result in slips, trips, and falls.
• Debris: Work tools and construction equipment should never be left in workflow areas.

Filing a Claim following a Construction Accident

If a bystander is injured in a construction site accident, he or she may file a personal injury claim. In many cases, the victim of a construction accident is a construction worker. Following the incident, he or she must typically file a workers’ compensation claim. However, if multiple contractors were present on the construction site, and the worker was injured due to the negligence of another contractor, the victim may be able to file a personal injury claim against said contractor.