Construction workers are exposed to a high-risk work environment. Due to the nature of their work, they remain vulnerable to accidents, that could lead to minor to major injuries and may even be fatal. These injuries can impact their lives, affect their day to day lives, and even restrict them from working. Construction accident attorneys across the country have witnessed a significant increase in cases of construction-related injuries among workers.
Common Accidents Leading to Fatalities Among Construction Workers
A recent report released by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) highlighted the “fatal four”, that is, the primary causes of fatalities among construction workers. They are as follows:
- Falls – is the most common cause of fatalities among construction workers. Nearly 36.5% deaths occur due to falls. This could be result of falling into unprotected holes, falling off a ladder, etc. It is important that all sites follow OSHA’s fall protection protocol to keep the workers safe.
- Struck by an object – accounts for 10% of fatalities. This could be due to swinging, falling, or misplaced objects. Other causes may include faulty equipment, negligent driving of a vehicle, or a slippery surface / shifting material.
- Electrocutions–Nearly 9% deaths occur due to electrocutions on the work site. This could be due to faulty wiring, inadequate maintenance. The onus lies on the employer to ensure that all OSHA protocols are followed with respect to power and electricity maintenance on the work site.
- Caught-in or caught-between: A construction site is full of large and heavy equipment managed by the workers. In such a scenario, it is possible to get caught in or between. About 2.5% fatalities are caused due to this reason.
The above are responsible for more than half (57%) of all fatalities among construction workers at their work place.
Involved in a construction-related accident
Accidents at a construction site can be a result of various reasons in addition to the ones mentioned above. However, if the cause of the accident was avoidable and occurred to employer’s negligence, you’re owed a fair compensation for your physical injuries, mental trauma and other associated impact. We recommend you hire an injury attorney to represent you.
Work with a top injury lawyer
In most cases, the employer or another party at-fault may try to settle the case by providing only the workers’ compensation, but you deserve more. It is important that the injury attorney accounts for all your pain and suffering, and takes it into account while identifying a just and fair settlement for you.
If you or someone you know has suffered an injury as a construction worker due to someone’s negligence, you need the top injury lawyer, contact Siler & Ingber today. Call us on 1-877-529-4343 or complete our online form on this page to schedule a case evaluation with one of our experienced construction accident attorneys. Our consultation is free and we do not charge a fee unless we win your case.