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Originally Posted On: https://www.employmentlawhandbook.com/workplace-behavior/most-common-construction-accidents/

Construction work is one of the essential jobs, but also one of the most hazardous jobs. Constructing large edifices using heavy machinery can easily lead to workers’ injuries. While there are many precautions out in this type of construction jobs, not all risky scenarios can be helped.

As a result,accidents do happen,sometimes leading to permanent injuries or death. Unsurprisingly, some construction accidents are more prevalent than others. This article provides a brief overview of the common construction accidents and how you can go about them.

Falls

Falls are the most prevalent types of construction accidents. They often occur when workers fall from scaffolding, cranes, roofs, ladders, chimneys, and other heights at work. The severity of these falls depends on the construction distance off the ground. Falling can break bones, cause back injuries, permanent disability, and even death.

Medical costs of injuries resulting from these falls are covered by a worker’s compensation insurance. You can file a worker’s compensation claim  and a personal injury lawsuit against the party involved. Oftentimes, construction organizations can be responsible for falling.

Machinery-Related Accidents

Many heavy machineries used in construction sites are hazardous. A malfunctioning machine or insufficient safety training in handling these and other tools can cause serious accidents which can lead to deep cuts, crushed limbs, or death.

With a worker’s compensation, you can get money to cover your medical bills and lost wages.  Professional and experienced lawyers can help you claim your right to compensation without breaking a sweat.

Fires and Explosions

There are many causes of fire and explosions  in construction sites. Common ones are caused by electrical errors where the electrical wires short-circuit or where machinery hits power lines. Other causes could be open fuel sources that can cause fire if in contact with heat.

Explosions, on the other hand, can be more lethal compared to fire. Construction workers can suffer life-changing injuries  when explosions occur due to:

• Incorrect use of storage of chemicals
• Pressurized containers
• Explosions during project demolition
• Equipment explosions if in contact with live electrical wires

Trench of Building Collapses

Trench or building collapse occurs commonly in construction sites. It can be a trench that’s under construction, a building under construction or being demolished. This can cause serious injuries or even kill those inside.

Even when the cause of the collapse cannot be directly identified, your lawyer can still apply a legal negligence theory. You can still be compensated without evidence of the defender’s negligence.

Common Injuries on Construction Sites

The construction accidents above can cause a myriad of medical conditions whose compensation depends on the circumstances and severity of the accident. These injuries include:

• Broke bones or fractures
• Limb amputation
• Burns sustained from fires, explosions, or electrocutions
• Cuts or lacerations
• Injuries from being impaled by construction objects
• Head or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Hearing loss caused by loud noises
• Vision loss
• Death

What to Do If You’re Injured on a Construction Site

If you’ve suffered any of the above injuries at a construction site, you can take legal steps to claim for a settlement and/or restore your health.

1. Assess your injuries by seeking emergency medical care
2. Alert your manager or supervisor at work, but don’t give too much details
3. Hire a competent construction accident attorney from gorayeb.com who can protect you from predatory insurance companies

Endnote

The best thing to do after suffering an injury at a construction site is to involve a construction accident attorney. The attorney can protect your legal right to compensation to cover your injuries and wages.