More than 100 construction workers were killed during the construction of the Hoover Dam in the 1930s. Eleven workers were killed during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge that same decade. Thankfully, today’s construction sites are safer than they were eighty years ago. Nonetheless, in terms of fatalities, construction laborer continues to be one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S. In fact, each year, one in ten construction site workers suffers some form of on-the-job injury. And every year, more than 1,000 workers are killed on construction sites. Many construction site accidents involve:
- Falls from scaffolding
- Crane collapses
- Fires and explosions
- Building collapses
- Faulty tools or equipment
- Electrocution
- Dangerous chemicals
- Falling objects
Construction site accidents are often caused by overworked and under-trained employees, crowded construction sites and faulty equipment. Tight construction timelines can often lead companies to cut corners when it comes to safety. Builders faced with cost overruns may scrimp on needed safety equipment.
When a worker is injured or killed in a construction site accident, property owners, employers, architects, manufacturers, and insurance companies may often be held responsible for:
- Faulty machinery/tools
- Unsafe procedures or working conditions
- Negligent management
- Inadequate training
- Explosions or fires
- Failure to provide necessary safety equipment
- Unrealistic employer demands that led to safety shortcuts
- Exposure to toxic fumes or substances
Workers involved in a construction accident may be out of work for a long time due to injuries; the majority of injuries lead to a loss of work lasting at least 30 days. Doctor/hospital bills, loss of income and the possibility of impairment resulting in a lifelong inability to work can be financially and emotionally devastating to a person or family. Since construction work usually involves manual labor that requires use of the full body, serious injury can destroy a career. Due to the specific and technical training of many construction jobs, it may be especially difficult for the accident victim to find a career in a different field.
While government agencies including OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) and NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) exist to protect construction site and other workers, like many government agencies, they are overwhelmed and underfunded. Far too often, serious safety violations are discovered only after they have led to needless and preventable injuries and deaths.
At Heygood, Orr & Pearson, we have represented numerous workers who were killed or injured in construction site accidents. Our board certified trial lawyers have the skill and experience necessary to obtain the best possible outcome for accident victims. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more about your legal rights and options.
