Understanding the Severity of Construction Site Injuries and How Can They Be Prevented

 Posted on February 14, 2023 in Work Injuries

Construction sites are one of the most hazardous work environments of any occupation. Despite the numerous safety measures in place, accidents continue to happen, leading to devastating consequences for workers and their families. In Texas, the construction industry is a significant contributor to the state's economy, and with the ongoing growth, it is essential to understand the common causes of construction site accidents.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for construction site injuries to result in fatalities. Today, we will examine common causes of construction site accidents and what can be done if you or someone you love is injured or killed while on the job. Suppose a construction site injury has impacted you. In that case, you will need aggressive legal representation as you determine what caused your injury and whether compensation can or should be pursued against your employer. Consider contacting a knowledgeable workers' compensation attorney who will fight to protect your rights and pursue a case outcome in your favor.

What Are Common Causes of Construction Site Injuries?

Many different causes may be to blame for construction site injuries. These include the following:

• Falls - One of the leading causes of construction site accidents is falls. Workers may fall from elevated surfaces, such as roofs or scaffolding, due to a lack of proper fall protection equipment or inadequate training. Falls can lead to severe injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and even death. To prevent falls, workers should always use appropriate personal protective equipment and be trained in proper fall protection techniques.
• Electrocution - This can happen when workers come into contact with electrical current from power lines, electrical panels, or machinery. To prevent electrocution, workers must be trained to identify potential electrical hazards and to use the appropriate protective equipment when working near electrical sources.
• Heavy machinery – Construction sites are often filled with heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavation equipment. These machines can injure or kill workers if proper safety measures are not in place. To prevent accidents involving heavy machinery, workers must be trained in how to operate and maintain such machines.
• Unsecured materials and equipment – If materials or equipment are not secured correctly, they can fall and cause injuries to workers. To prevent these accidents, workers must be trained in the proper methods of securing materials and equipment and must be vigilant in ensuring that everything is adequately secured.

Employers have a duty to maintain safe working conditions to prevent employees from reasonable harm. If someone is gravely injured at a construction site due to the negligence of their employer or third party, that person may sue their employer or third party. Many jobs, but not all, offer their employees workers' compensation insurance that covers injuries and deaths. If an employer does not provide this type of insurance, the employer may be vulnerable to individual lawsuits.

Contact a Dallas, Texas Workplace Injury Attorney

Construction site injuries are no laughing matter. If you have been injured or someone you love has been injured or killed at a construction site, contact the experienced Dallas, TX workers' compensation lawyers at Clark Law Group. Call 469-906-2266 for a private consultation.

Source: https://www.osha.gov/fatalities