Construction work is physically demanding and often takes place in fast-paced environments. While safety measures are intended to reduce risks, accidents on job sites continue to happen every year. Attorneys like our colleagues at Cohen & Cohen can attest that many of these accidents stem from preventable conditions. Discussing your specific accident and injuries with an attorney can help you determine if you are eligible for a construction accident claim.
Falls From Heights
Working on scaffolding, ladders, or unfinished structures puts workers at constant risk of falling. A slip or misstep can result in severe injuries. Proper guardrails, fall arrest systems, and training are critical in reducing these incidents, but when these safeguards are ignored, the chance of harm increases significantly.
Falling Objects
Tools, materials, and debris are often lifted or stored above ground level. If items are not properly secured, workers below can be struck, sometimes with devastating consequences. Simple precautions like toe boards, netting, and helmets make a big difference, yet accidents still occur when safety rules are overlooked. A personal injury lawyer will investigate your accident and determine who is liable for the objects that caused your injury.
Electrocution Hazards
Live wires, unfinished electrical systems, and contact with overhead power lines are common risks on job sites. Even brief contact with electricity can cause serious injuries or be fatal. Accidents of this nature often happen when wiring is left exposed or when workers are not warned about active circuits in their work area.
Equipment And Machinery Accidents
Heavy machinery such as forklifts, bulldozers, and cranes play a major role in construction. However, they also present significant dangers. Workers may be injured by rollovers, crushing incidents, or improper operation of equipment. Regular inspections, maintenance, and training can help, but accidents often trace back to skipped safety checks or inexperience.
Trench And Excavation Collapses
Trenches and excavations pose a unique hazard. When soil or materials shift unexpectedly, workers can become trapped. These accidents are frequently life-threatening. Proper shoring, sloping, and monitoring are key to prevention, but rushed timelines or ignoring soil conditions often lead to collapses. These accidents can lead to serious consequences, necessitating prompt and serious legal action in return.
Slips, Trips, And Everyday Falls
Not all accidents involve heights or heavy equipment. Construction sites are filled with uneven ground, debris, cords, and slick surfaces. These everyday hazards cause many injuries, from sprains to broken bones. Regular site clean-up and clear walkways are essential but often neglected in busy environments. A construction accident attorney can help you understand how to file a claim after a slip and fall at work.
Chemical Exposure And Hazardous Materials
Some construction projects involve working with chemicals, adhesives, or asbestos-containing materials. Without protective equipment or proper ventilation, workers may suffer burns, respiratory issues, or long-term health effects. Awareness and training go a long way in reducing these risks.
The Importance Of Legal Representation
When construction accidents occur, the effects can extend far beyond the worksite. Medical bills, lost wages, and long recovery times place enormous strain on injured workers and their families. In these situations, having an experienced lawyer can make a significant difference. Workers may be entitled to compensation that helps them move forward after a serious accident.
