Construction sites pose many dangers to workers and innocent bystanders alike. Construction workers are subject to a high level of risk as they are often involved in potentially dangerous tasks such as lifting heavy objects, operating large machinery, and performing job duties at the elevated heights. Still, proper protocol and safety practices can decrease a worker or by stander’s risk of injury. When someone causes a preventable construction accident through negligence, he or she may be liable for the victim’s injuries.
When a construction accident causes harm to an employee, workers’ compensation laws will generally apply. There are, however, cases in which the worker can also obtain economic recovery from other parties who may be deemed liable such as companies that manufacture construction equipment that prove to be defective.
When an innocent bystander suffers injury as the result of a construction accident, he or she may also be eligible to recover damages by filing a personal injury claim.
Whether you’re a construction worker or merely a bystander who has suffered injury as the result of a construction accident, you may be eligible to receive economic recovery for your losses. Our attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and determine a course of action.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
There are number of ways person can be injured at construction site. Scaffolding accidents are the most common, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all construction accidents. Other common causes include: falls, electrocution, and improperly braced trenches.
Determining the liability for injuries sustained in a construction accident requires understanding each party’s responsibilities at the site. In the event that a construction accident occurs, any of the following parties may bear total or partial responsibility:
- Site Owners
- General and Sub-Contractors
- Architects and Engineers
- Manufacturers of Construction Machinery or Equipment
- Insurers
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) compliance officer
Know Your Rights
If you have suffered injury as the result of a construction accident, you are responsible for proving your case against the liable party(s). This usually requires the help of a qualified attorney. It is always wise to seek competent legal counsel after a construction accident to ensure that your rights are protected, especially since a statute of limitations applies to all workers’ compensation and personal injury cases. Contact us for a consultation with a knowledgeable attorney.
