Every year hundreds of construction workers are injured or killed on the job. Construction work is one of the most dangerous professions. Here are some facts about construction accidents that you should know:
The Fatal Four
OSHA has discovered the most common reasons for construction site deaths and labeled them the “fatal four.” The fatal four include falls, struck by an object, electrocutions, and caught in or between objects. A majority of construction site deaths can be attributed to one of the fatal four.
Construction Deaths Top Workplace Fatalities
Everyone knows that being a construction worker is a risky job. It is estimated that 20% of workplace fatalities take place in the construction industry. Construction site fatalities are on the rise. In addition to fatalities, there are thousands of workers who sustain serious, life-altering injuries on the job.
Liability in Construction Accidents
The property owner and construction company are generally the two entities liable for construction site injuries. However, there could be other responsible parties. If an injury is caused by defective equipment, then it could be the manufacturer that is liable. A sub-contractor could also be held liable. Determining liability in a construction accident can be complex, and thorough investigations are required. That’s why it can be helpful to hire an attorney if you’ve been injured on a construction site.
More Than Worker’s Compensation May be Available
If you’ve been injured on the job, then you are probably entitled to collect worker’s compensation. However, worker’s compensation will not cover all of your damages. While you can’t sue your employer for those damages, there may be other entities who are liable, as noted above. A third-party claim may result in collecting further damages such as pain and suffering.
Lack of Experience and Training
A lack of experience and training is at the root of most construction accidents. Workers who have been on the job for a short time are at greater risk of injury. Employers are required to provide adequate and ongoing safety training to all construction workers.
Contact a Construction Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, you should have an experienced construction accident attorney evaluate your case. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have been helping injured construction workers for over 50 years. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.