The construction industry is one of the most dangerous industries for workers in the United States and the state of Florida. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), out of the 3,929 worker fatalities in 2013, 20.3 percent were in the construction industry. The following takes a look at some of the most common construction site accidents and injuries.
Falls from Heights and Slip and Fall Accidents
Both falls from heights and slip and fall accidents are extremely deadly for construction workers. According to OSHA, 294 out of the total 796 deaths in the construction industry in 2013 were caused by a fall. These falls are usually from great heights, and the result of a improper fall protection or adherence to scaffolding or other safety requirements.
When a fall is not fatal, it can cause serious injuries such as a broken back, broken bones, internal injuries, and a traumatic head injury.
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(855) 529-0269Being Struck by an Object
Being struck by an object is another common – and deadly – construction site accident. A worker struck by an object was responsible for 10.3 percent of all construction worker deaths in 2013.
Often, being struck by an object involves a falling object or debris, such as the following.
- Tools
- Building materials
- Heavy beams or equipment
One of the most serious injuries that a worker may sustain from a falling object is a traumatic brain injury.
Construction Site Electrocutions
Getting electrocuted is a serious injury that can have long-term and permanent consequences, or can result in death. Electrocutions were responsible for 8.9 percent of construction worker deaths in 2013.
An OSHA training guide on electrocutions states that common causes of electrocutions are worker contact with overhead power lines, contact with energized sources (like damaged wires), and the improper use of extension cords or flexible cords.
According to Medline Plus, an electrocution can cause these injuries.
- Cardiac arrest
- Muscle, nerve, and tissue damage
- Thermal burns
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(855) 529-0269Being Caught In/Between Machinery
Another devastating type of accident that was responsible for 2.6 percent of construction worker deaths in 2013 was workers being caught in, or between, machinery and construction equipment.
When the safety regulations for machinery guarding aren’t met, a worker is at risk of being caught in a piece of machinery.
Injuries that may result from being caught in a piece of machinery are listed.
- Limb or extremity amputations
- Internal injuries
- Broken bones
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Many construction workers work around motor vehicles, especially those on roadside construction sites where accidents happen. Motor vehicle accidents involving construction workers can be caused by workplace practices or a third-party (such as a passenger car speeding by).
Injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident for a construction worker can include these.
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- External injuries
- Death
How an Attorney Can Help You
If you have been in a construction accident and sustained injuries, an attorney can help you to understand your rights and options moving forward. In most cases, a worker has the right to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
In some cases, though, a worker also the right to file a third party liability claim for benefits. At Chalik & Chalik, our attorneys can guide you through your rights, and help you recover the maximum amount of compensation you’re entitled.
If you’ve been injured in a construction site accident, let our legal team help you. Start by calling us today at 855-529-0269.
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