Common Construction Site Accidents
Workers on construction sites are exposed to several hazards on a daily basis, which may lead to serious or fatal injuries. Not all construction site accidents are the cause of negligence, and if it is it’s not always clear who was at fault. You might have been injured due to employer negligence or by the negligence of a contractor or other third party. And then an employer’s workers’ compensation insurance might not cover the entire cost of your injury.
If you’ve been injured and need help understanding what you should do next give us a call or read more about Construction Site Lawsuits.
Some of the most common types of construction site accidents include, without limitation, the following:
- Equipment injuries – the reckless or careless operation of heavy machinery such as hoists, tractors, and cranes can cause injuries to those nearby. Equipment malfunctions arising from a defect is another common issue.
- Slip, trip, and fall injuries – misplaced debris and poor weather can lead to slips, trips, and falls on a construction site.
- Explosions – when hazardous materials are mishandled, it can cause explosions that can seriously injure or cause the death of workers nearby.
- Falling objects – falling objects from high up such as roofing materials and support beams can sometimes fall and cause injuries to those who are working in lower places.
- Electrocution – when a worker is not aware of a nearby electric current, or if a power line was hit during an excavation accident, there is a large risk of electrocution, which could cause serious injuries and even death.
- Scaffolding and ladder accidents – working in high places is very risky. Falls from significant heights can lead to severe injuries and even death.
When it Can be Workers’ Compensation, Personal Injury or a Third Party Lawsuit
Construction sites are busy places. There are many types of people working on the site, heavy equipment, and a bunch of activities. When construction site accidents happen it’s not always clear if it was negligence or who could be responsible. When it comes to a claim regarding workers’ compensation or a personal injury it’s important to understand your options.
Accidents Involving Workers’ Compensation
When you’ve had a construction site accident, or you get sick on the job, and it involves where you work or the conditions directly related to your job you can file a workers’ compensation claim.
To learn more about workers’ compensation and if you have a case, view our Workers’ Compensation Page.
Accidents Involving Personal Injury
When a construction site accident is due to the neglect of an employer, or another employee you might have a Workers’ Compensation claim or a personal injury claim. Each accident can be different and an investigation should be conducted to see what best fits your claim.
Workers’ Compensation is similar to Personal Injury but is vastly different in what legislation is involved. Learn more about personal injury and if you have a case on our Personal Injury Page.
Accidents Involving a Third-Party
It’s also possible that your accident was the cause of neglect by another contractor, subcontractor, or another business operating in the same space. If this is the case it’s likely going to be a personal injury claim against that person or that business.
Collect Evidence in a Construction Site Accident
Regardless of who was at fault for the accident you’re going to want to collect as much evidence as you can. It’s a similar process for how to treat farming accidents, read more about 4-steps after a farming accident.
Basically, you’ll want to do the following:
- Seek Medical Attention. No matter how minor. If there is a chance you’ll lose work, you’ll need adequate documentation.
- Document Everything. Take photos, videos and record yourself talking about what and how it happened.
- Report the Accident to the Employer.
- Contact our Construction Site Accident Lawyer. It’s Free – (815) 964-8303
Construction Site Accident Free Consultation
Construction site accidents aren’t as cut and dry as filing a workers’ comp claim. Sometimes you’re a contractor or subcontractor that was injured – or you were injured due to the neglect of a contractor or subcontractor.
For help in determining if you have a case and how strong it is, we advise you to give us a call. Everything is secure and confidential. Reach out with any questions you might have – Text or Call (815) 964-8303 – Email contact@rockfordpersonalinjuryattorney.com.
One call can go a long way.