The construction industry is notoriously dangerous. Job sites involve a multitude of hazardous conditions–a virtual breeding ground for construction accidents. Construction workers regularly have to operate heavy machinery, work in extreme heights, and even work with live electrical wires. Indisputably, construction accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and when these occur, the victims and their families may be eligible for financial compensation.
Recent Statistics Involving Construction Accidents
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics has recently reported the following:
- Between 2015 and 2018 there was an approximate 5% increase in construction accident fatalities.
- In 2018 alone, there were 1,038 construction accident fatalities.
- Common causes of death involve falls, electrocutions, being hit by an object, and caught in between large items.
Common Types of Accidents in the Construction Industry
Accidents in the construction industry can vary. The following are some of the most common accidents that can lead to serious injuries:
Heavy Machinery: Accidents can involve cranes, forklifts, or other heavy machinery. These accidents can occur as a result of operational error, exposure to toxins, lack of training, or misuse of equipment.
Electrocutions: Serious injuries can result from electrocutions. Construction workers who work with or around live and exposed wire run the risk of serious injury, such as internal burns, surface-level burn injury, serious falls, permanent disability, catastrophic brain injury, or death.
Falls: Falling can occur from both low or high altitudes. When it comes to construction site accidents, nearly half of the falls occur as a result of a slip and fall. These can occur as a result of obstructed walkways or even slippery walkways. Regrettably, a fall can also occur from a high altitude. When a fall occurs from a particularly high altitude, the victim can suffer traumatic brain injury and even death.
Accidents Involving Scaffolding: According to the United States Department of Labor, about 70% of scaffolding accidents that resulted with injury to workers occurred as a result of a plank or other scaffold support that gave out, slip and falls, or the victim being struck by a falling object.
Following a Construction Accident, Seek Legal Recourse and Obtain the Support of Experienced Counsel
Construction accidents regularly, and unfortunately, a majority of them result in permanent injuries. Victims who have suffered injuries while working in a construction site may be eligible for compensation. Depending on the facts of the individual case, compensation can be sought from the construction company, the project manager, contractor or subcontractor, to name a few. In the event of a tragic death, the victim’s family can seek restitution from through a wrongful death claim.
At SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation, helping victims obtain financial compensation for their injuries is a main priority. The attorneys at SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation understand that construction accident victims often endure physical, emotional, and even financial hardship following the accident. As a result, the attorneys at SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation work diligently and aggressively to help victims obtain the maximum amount of compensation available. Following an accident, seek proficient legal support; consider contacting the attorneys at SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation today, for a no-obligation consultation.
