Construction Accident lawsuit: the Risks and your Rights

Construction workers face some of the most hazardous working conditions in the United States. In 2019 alone, over 5,000 workers died while on the job, with approximately 1,000 of these fatalities involving construction workers. This alarming statistic highlights the significant dangers in the construction industry. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 1 in every 200 construction workers will experience a fatal accident during a 45-year career, and 1 in 10 construction workers are injured every year.

If you're a construction worker, knowing your rights and what to do in the event of an injury is essential. Whether you're hurt on a job site or lose a loved one in a tragic accident, the law provides avenues for compensation and justice.

What Are Construction Accidents?

Construction accidents occur when a person sustains injuries or damage while engaging in activities related to building, repairing, demolishing, or constructing a structure. These accidents can range from personal injuries to significant property damage, and they can happen despite strict safety protocols.

Common types of construction accidents include:

• Falls from heights (scaffolding, ladders, roofs, cranes)
• Trenching accidents
• Scaffolding collapses
• Electrocution
• Machinery failures (cranes, forklifts)
• Motor vehicle collisions
• Welding injuries
• Building collapses
• Falling objects

Despite safety measures, construction accidents remain a persistent danger, especially in busy regions like Boston and Massachusetts, where construction is essential for economic growth but filled with daily hazards. Workers and even visitors to construction sites can find themselves seriously injured. Knowing your rights after an accident is vital.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

Some of the most common causes of construction accidents include:

• Lack of proper protection for workers at heights
• Failure to protect workers from falling objects
• Poor communication between different construction parties
• The use of unsafe or defective equipment
• Neglecting to avoid live power lines or electrical hazards
• Slick surfaces that lead to falls
• Lack of training for workers on safety measures
• Inadequate supervision of workers on the site

These factors often lead to catastrophic accidents, many of which could have been prevented with proper safety protocols and training.

Common Injuries on Construction Sites

Falls are among the leading causes of construction injuries. Workers face the risk of falling from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, and cranes. Falls, slips, and trips account for about one-third of all workplace injuries, leading to a high number of workers’ compensation claims.

Injuries resulting from falls can include:

• Broken bones
• Back and head injuries
• Sprains and pulled muscles
• Cuts and lacerations

Other common injuries on construction sites include electrical shocks, heavy equipment malfunctions, and accidents involving vehicles in construction zones.

How to Receive Compensation for Construction Injuries

If you've been injured while working on a construction site, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries through a workers' compensation claim. This system is designed to provide workers with the financial support they need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.

To file a workers' compensation claim:

1. Notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible.
2. If your injury keeps you from working for more than five calendar days, you are eligible to file a claim for compensation.
3. Seek medical attention and make sure to keep records of your treatment.

However, if a party other than your employer contributed to the accident—such as a property owner, equipment manufacturer, or subcontractor—you may also have the option to file a third-party claim. This type of lawsuit allows you to seek compensation beyond workers' compensation, especially when negligence by a third party contributed to your injuries.

Consult an Experienced Attorney

Navigating the complexities of construction accident claims can be overwhelming. Working with a skilled construction accident attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation available under the law.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Oshan & Associates at (206) 335-3880. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to helping injured workers and their families pursue justice. We will thoroughly investigate your case, identify responsible parties, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

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