Working on a construction site is every bit as dangerous as it sounds. And if you have ever been employed in this capacity, you’re well aware of what can go wrong.
With the number of fatal injuries in the construction industry on the rise, it’s critical to take every step possible to protect yourself and your co-workers.
Unfortunately, no matter how well you prepare, the risk of injury never goes away.
Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents
Construction sites are busy, crowded, and full of potentially dangerous equipment. That’s why there are so many different types of construction accidents that can cause injury or death.
Here are some of the most common causes:
- Fall from height
- Slip and fall
- Falling objects
- Electrocution and fire
- Ladder and scaffolding accidents
- Power tool accidents
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Caught-in/between heavy machinery
- Building collapses
No matter what type of job you have, you could find yourself at risk of injury from one or more of the above causes.
The most frequently cited standards following safety inspections of worksites by the federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) include:
- Fall Protection
- Hazard Communication Standard
- Respiratory Protection
- Scaffolding
- Ladders
- Control of Hazardous Energy
- Powered Industrial Trucks
- Fall Protection–Training Requirements
- Eye and Face Protection
- Machinery and Machine Guarding
Types of Construction Accident Injuries
There’s no way of knowing what will happen as a result of a construction site accident. Sometimes, everyone involved can walk away from the scene unscathed. Other times, one or more workers are seriously injured or killed.
Some of the most common types of construction accident injuries include:
- Broken bones: From head to toe, every bone in your body is at risk in a construction site accident.
- Back and neck injuries: This ranges from pulled muscles to herniated discs to fractures.
- Burns and electrocution: Burns and electrocution require immediate medical attention, as well as the securing of the worksite.
- Ear and eye injuries: Even with protection, ear and eye injuries remain possible.
- Paralysis: This is the result of a severe neck or back injury, such as a severed spinal cord.
- Loss of limb: Hands, arms, feet, and legs are at the highest risk.
- Traumatic brain injury: This includes injuries such as bleeding on the brain, skull fractured, and blunt force trauma.
Steps to Take After a Construction Accident
You don’t see a construction accident coming. One minute you’re doing your job, but in a split second, something unexpected happens.
Here’s what you should do if you’re injured — regardless of the severity — in a construction accident.
- Administer first aid: If you’re unable to do so, a co-worker can step in to assist you until help arrives.
- Report the injury: This is more difficult than it sounds if you are seriously injured. If you can’t immediately report the injury, do so as soon as possible.
- Call for help: There are times when it makes more sense to have a co-worker transport you to a local hospital or urgent care facility, but it’s generally best to call 911. The dispatcher can send paramedics and police to the scene.
- Receive medical care: In addition to receiving care, consult with your medical team regarding your injuries, treatment plan, and long-term prognosis.
- Collect evidence and take notes: As possible, collect evidence and take notes related to the accident. For example, if you have photos of the work site, these can help back up your claim in court.
Construction Site Accident Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You’re likely to have questions in the aftermath of a construction site accident. Rather than let these confuse you, it’s best to tackle them head-on (typically with the help of a construction accident attorney).
Here are a handful of questions that may require your attention:
- How do you prove fault in a construction accident?
- Do you have the right to file a lawsuit to seek compensation?
- Does workers’ compensation insurance come into play?
- How much is a construction site lawsuit worth?
- Who can you hold liable for construction site accidents?
- What type of evidence can support your claim?
- Can you seek compensation without the help of an attorney?
- Where do insurance companies enter the equation?
- What should you do if your employer blames you for the accident?
Contact a Jacksonville Construction Accident Lawyer
A construction accident has the potential to turn your life upside down. Depending on the severity, it could impact your professional, personal life, and financial circumstances.
If you’ve been injured in a Jacksonville construction accident, contact the attorneys at Terrell • Hogan online or via phone at (888) 244-5557.
We will review your case, answer your questions, and formulate a plan for seeking compensation from the liability party.
With one of our lawyers managing your case, you’re always informed and in control of the process.
