Construction Site Accidents at Work

Florida construction sites are the most dangerous job sites for workers. Every year, more fatalities occur at construction sites than at any other workplace. Injured construction workers may file for benefits as they recover from their injuries. Anyone affected by a dangerous Florida construction site accident would be well-advised to call an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to better understand their legal rights and options.

Dangers of Construction Work

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, about half of all fatal workplace falls occur at construction sites. In 2009, construction fatalities declined 16 percent from the year before, but construction fatalities still accounted for the most fatalities of any industry. Construction workers face constant risk of falls, falling equipment, sinkholes, defective equipment, dangerous scaffolds, and dangerous mistakes made by inexperienced co-workers.

Types of Construction Site Accidents

The circumstances on a construction site enhance the risk of injury, making it significantly higher than in other sectors. Construction workers are exposed to a wide range of environmental hazards, toxic materials, and dangerous equipment. If you are not continuously thinking about safety, you might endanger a coworker or yourself at any time.

Victims of any of these types of construction site accidents would be well-advised to discuss their legal options with a skilled workers’ compensation attorney:

• Roof Cave-in: Construction companies are required under state and federal law to provide safe work conditions for their employees. Workers should not be asked to work on top of roofs that are at risk of collapsing. When a worker is on top of a roof, he or she should be properly harnessed and protected from a fatal fall.
• Crane Accidents: Crane operators must be trained to control these large machines. Cranes are notorious for causing serious injuries when they are defective or poorly operated and have the potential to injure workers and others in the area.
• Falling through a Floor: Many construction sites have open holes in the ground or floors of a building. These holes should be properly marked and labeled.
• Loose Scaffolding: When scaffolds are defective or improperly braced, they can cause serious falling accidents.
• Electrical Accidents: There are strict OSHA guidelines regarding how to handle the way electricity is used and installed at a construction site. Failure to follow these safety standards could result in electrocution or serious burn injuries.
• Gas Explosions: Several gas lines usually run through a construction site. It is important to make sure that gas lines are shut off before work begins.
• Defective Power Tools: A third-party claim can hold manufacturers liable for accidents caused by defective equipment.

Rights of a Worker

Workers’ compensation claims exist to protect employees who are injured on the job. It is the legal obligation of property owners and construction contractors to provide reasonably safe workplace conditions. Failure to meet this obligation can lead to catastrophic injuries and fatalities.

The workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Office of Ruth E. Johnson fights to protect the rights of injured construction workers. We help victims receive compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Many workers’ compensation claims are denied. So, it is crucial to have a reputed attorney help you navigate the application process. Call us today to schedule your free and comprehensive consultation.