The Realities of Construction Accidents
One of the most dangerous industries to work in is construction. Construction work involves countless hazards that injure tens of thousands of construction workers every year. But construction could involve less dangerous working conditions. There are federal regulations in place that all construction companies must follow to ensure the safety of their employees. You never know what’s just around the corner. Here’s a look at the realities of construction accidents, as well as how the dedicated Team at Stanley Law Offices gets their hardworking crew, working for you, if you’re a victim.
Types of Construction Accidents
Each year in the United States, over 150,000 construction workers are injured on the job, with roughly 1,000 of those injuries fatal. In 2017 alone, one in five work-related deaths occurred in the construction industry. The overwhelming majority of these incidents could have been prevented if the employers of those workers had taken the necessary safety precautions and measures to make for a safe job site.
According to the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the most commonly fatal construction accidents are the “Fatal Four,” which include falls, being struck by or blunt contact with an object, electrocution and getting caught in or between machinery and other materials. Other accidents – fatal or not – involve the following:
- Lack of head protection
- Overexposure to toxic chemicals
- Faulty communication about potential hazards on the job site
- Injuries related to scaffolding, excavations, collapsing trenches and more
Determining Fault for Construction Accidents
Whether you were injured on the job site of a massive new building or at the remodeling of a small home, determining fault for any injuries and illnesses resulting from construction accidents can be complicated. Any project can involve contractors, subcontractors, property owners or developers, engineers, design professionals, suppliers and more. Fault for any potential worker injuries should be specified in the contracts between involved parties. In case it’s not, get our hardworking crew, working for you.
Options for Construction Employees
Victims of construction accidents have two legal options when it comes to getting the justice they deserve. One is workers’ compensation, or workers’ comp. It’s insurance employers have to compensate employees for injuries, and protect the company from civil lawsuits. Even if the employer was not negligent, any employees injured on the job are entitled to workers’ comp.
There are some cases in which workers’ compensation doesn’t apply. That’s because workers’ comp can only be given to employees directly from their employer, and sometimes construction accidents affect employees of other companies, subcontractors or other entities. When this is the reality, you can opt to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party or parties.
Enforcement of OSHA Regulations
Due to the realities that come along with this line of work, OSHA has a number of regulations in place that employers in the construction industry must adhere to. These include eliminating the presence of hazards, establishing communication guidelines and ensuring the tools and equipment used by employees are safe and up to code.
If you’re concerned about your employer’s adherence to OSHA regulations, all construction employees have the right to request an inspection by your local OSHA area director. The inspection will determine whether your employer is violating OSHA regulations. They’ll also identify any hazards that have gone unnoticed. Your employer is prohibited from retaliating against you for filing a complaint to OSHA.
There for You
If you’ve been injured at work due to a construction accident, you need and deserve the Maximum Award. Joe knows it takes true grit to win a case. Stanley Law Offices can help you navigate the difficult process. Don’t go it alone… Contact us Now.
