How common are construction accidents?

Working in the construction industry is dangerous. In fact, studies show that approximately 20% of workplace deaths that occur each year are attributable to those who work in construction. Thousands of other construction workers are injured in on-the-job incidents each year, too. This means that if you work in this field, there’s a significant chance that you’re going to be injured at some point in your career.

How can you suffer from a construction injury?

As with any profession, there are a lot of different construction injuries. Among the most common are:

• Repetitive stress injuries: This injury can occur if you move certain parts of your body in the same way over a significant period of time. Those who frequently use a jackhammer, for example, may suffer arm, wrist or shoulder injuries. These injuries can cause chronic pain that is difficult to treat.

• Falls: A lot of construction workers are injured when they fall from significant heights, such as when scaffolding collapses.

• Falling objects: Construction workers utilize a lot of tools, and sometimes, those tools are accidentally dropped or kicked off of scaffolding or scissor lifts. Those who work at ground level can then be struck by these falling objects, which can cause them a significant amount of harm.

• Trench collapses: Workers who perform their duties in trenches need to ensure that the trench walls are properly supported and that there’s a clear escape plan in the event of trench collapse. Far too often, workers who are trapped in a trench collapse are left without oxygen, which can result in brain injuries and death.

• Electrical shock: Construction workers frequently have to utilize power tools and electrical wiring. If the tools are damaged or mishandled, a worker can be electrocuted.

• Lack of safety gear: Although construction companies are required to provide their workers with appropriate training and safety equipment, far too often, corners are cut. When this happens, a worker can be left without the protection that they need. This means that they may be left without a hardhat, eye protection, or ear plugs. Any of these shortcomings can leave a worker with extensive injuries.

Remember, these are just some of the ways that a construction worker can be injured on the job. There are a lot of dangers out there that you need to be aware of, so make sure that you’re assessing your work area to protect yourself as much as possible.

What are your options if you’ve been hurt?

If you’ve been hurt in a construction accident, you’ve got a lot on your plate. You’re probably dealing with extensive physical and emotional pain, and the costs of your medical treatment is probably quite extensive. Making matters worse is the fact that you’re unable to work to earn a wage, which can make it hard to put food on the table and keep a roof over your head.

When it comes to recovering your damages, you may have a few options. For example, you might be able to seek out workers’ compensation benefits to help offset your losses, but you might also be able to file a third-party lawsuit, which is distinct from a workers’ compensation claim. A third-party claim is much more likely to provide you with compensation that you need to fully cover from your injuries, which is why you may want to explore this route if your injuries were caused by the fault of someone other than your direct employer.

We know that it’s stressful to deal with a legal action while you’re trying to recover from your injuries. But that’s why skilled legal teams like ours are here to help. If you’d like to learn more about how to build your case, please consider reaching out to a legal team that you think will aggressively fight for your interests.