When accidents at construction sites occur, they’re often severe. Heavy machinery, cumbersome materials, and precarious heights can all contribute to catastrophic personal injury. While construction site safety should be a high priority, risks can never be entirely eliminated, and when accidents happen, those injured suffer and sometimes lose their lives.
Common Construction Site Injuries
According to the most recent OSHA report, fatalities in the private construction industry increased by 5% in the 2019 fiscal year, totaling 1,061 deaths. Loss of life is the most tragic result of construction site injury, but many other incidents can also have devastating long-term consequences. The most common injuries reported in the construction industry include:
- Burns
- Eye injury
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injury
- Back and spine injury
Many construction site injuries can be attributed to falls. While all employers have an obligation to maintain a safe workplace, this duty is particularly important at construction sites. Despite this requirement, OSHA lists the following among the most frequent workplace violations specific to construction sites:
- Fall protection
- Scaffolding
- Ladder safety
Accidents happen, but construction accidents frequently occur because of another’s negligence or oversight.
Costs of Construction Site Injuries
The costs associated with an injury sustained on a construction site begin the moment the accident occurs. When you’re injured, you need to receive medical care, often from an expensive emergency room. You may need to take days, weeks, or even months off of work. Many of those injured are permanently prevented from returning to work and might even need lifelong rehabilitation to maintain their quality of life.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury as a result of a construction accident, you’ll need to worry not only about the physical recovery process but the economic recovery process as well. Fortunately, you are most likely entitled to financial recovery through workman’s compensation, disability insurance, and third-party lawsuits. That said, the process can be frustrating for those suffering from the trauma of an injury.
D’Intino Law Firm works tirelessly to help those injured at construction sites, including employees, visitors, or those who just happen to be walking through. If you or someone you love has been hurt at a construction site, call our office today at 267-491-9111 for a free consultation.
