Construction is routinely listed in official reports as being among the most dangerous jobs in the US. However, just because there are known risks does not mean that accidents, injuries, and deaths are at all acceptable or that they should be tolerated. If you or someone you love has been involved in a construction-related accident it is imperative that you protect your rights be seeking a knowledgeable construction accident litigation attorney.
The Causes of Construction Accidents
Construction sites are filled with a number of very serious hazards. There are massive, heavy pieces of equipment, steel, concrete, and wooden beams, other heavy materials, and elevated platforms, all amidst a constant buzz of activity. One wrong step, careless action, or equipment malfunction can result in a major accident in the blink of an eye. The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies the following “Fatal Four” broad types of construction accidents:
- Falls
- Being struck by an object
- Electrocutions
- Getting caught in or between something
In addition to these accidents and the various frightening iterations of ways they can occur, there are quite a few other types of hazards at construction sites. For examples workers may also fall victim to:
- Toxic fumes
- Hazardous materials
- Fires and explosions
- Machinery accidents
- Auto accidents while on the job
The Suffering of Construction Accident Victims
Construction accidents result in severe pain and suffering for thousands of workers every year. Many workers are also saddled with the need for medical procedures and surgeries, physical therapy, and costly medical and hospital bills. It is also a cruel irony that construction workers have a high need to be physically active due to their jobs and yet these same jobs make them susceptible to injuries which can easily sideline them and rob them of the ability to work.
The Consequences of Construction Accidents
- Physical pain
- Disabilities
- Emotional trauma and psychological anguish
- Costly medical bills
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Surgeries
- Medical devices and prosthetics
- Confinement to wheelchairs or crutches
- Lost wages
- Lost future wages and diminished earning capacity
- Inability to enjoy life
The Parties Responsible for Construction Accidents
There are several potentially culpable parties who may be responsible for a construction accident depending on the particular circumstance of the accident. In some cases the accident may arise as a result of an action or active mistake, such as someone operating equipment and machinery at a time or place when they should not have been. Other times the accident may be due to negligence, such as failure to clear away debris, poor maintenance of equipment, or a lack of training with regard to safety and emergency protocols. Legally responsible parties may include any or all of the following:
- Employer
- General contractor
- Property owner
- Manufacturer of defective or dangerous item
- Legal Tips for Construction Accident Victims
If you are injured at a construction site the most important thing you can do is seek immediate medical attention. Even if the injury seems minor it is important to be thoroughly checked out by a doctor because some injuries may worsen over time or not be immediately apparent at all. Next consider the following:
- Document your injury. If possible take pictures
- Record all witness statements and contact information
- Keep a copy of all medical bills and expenses related to the injury
- Follow your doctor’s orders but…
- Consider a second opinion when necessary
- Don’t sign anything from your employer or insurance company until you can…
- Consult an accident litigation attorney experienced at handling construction cases
Dies & Parkhurst Wins Justice for Construction Accident Victims
Dies & Parkhurst is an experienced accident litigation law firm. We understand the intricacies involved in construction accident cases and we are dedicated and tireless when it comes for fighting for our clients’ legal rights and helping them get the justice and compensation they deserve for their injuries. If you have been injured in a construction-related accident please contact us to setup a consultation so that we can advise you of your legal rights.
