Construction Accidents: What You Need to Know

Construction sites are among the most hazardous workplaces in the U.S., with thousands of workers suffering injuries each year. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), construction accidents account for a significant portion of workplace injuries and fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

Construction accidents happen for various reasons, but some of the most common causes include:

1. Falls from Heights – Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction. Workers often fall from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or other elevated surfaces due to a lack of proper fall protection.
2. Struck by Objects – Construction workers are at risk of being hit by falling tools, equipment, or debris. Cranes and forklifts can also pose dangers if not operated properly.
3. Electrocutions – Exposed wiring, power lines, and faulty electrical equipment can lead to serious injuries or fatalities from electrocution.
4. Caught-in/Between Accidents – These incidents occur when workers get trapped between machinery, equipment, or collapsing structures, often leading to severe injuries.
5. Equipment Malfunctions – Defective tools and heavy machinery can cause catastrophic accidents, often due to poor maintenance or manufacturing defects.

What to Do After a Construction Accident

If you are injured on a construction site, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention – Your health is the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional.
2. Report the Accident – Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. Ensure that the incident is documented properly.
3. Gather Evidence – Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions. Collect witness statements if possible.
4. Consult a Construction Accident Lawyer – An experienced attorney can help you navigate workers’ compensation claims or potential lawsuits to recover damages.

Who is Liable in a Construction Accident?

Determining liability in a construction accident can be complex. Potential responsible parties include:

• Employers – If an employer fails to follow safety regulations, they may be held accountable.
• General Contractors & Subcontractors – These parties must ensure a safe work environment.
• Equipment Manufacturers – If defective machinery causes an injury, the manufacturer could be liable.
• Property Owners – In some cases, property owners may be responsible for unsafe conditions on-site.

Compensation for Construction Accident Injuries

Injured construction workers may be entitled to compensation, including:

• Workers’ Compensation Benefits – Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
• Third-Party Claims – If a negligent third party (such as an equipment manufacturer) caused the injury, a lawsuit may be filed.
• Pain and Suffering – In some cases, victims may recover damages for emotional and physical distress.

How a Lawyer Can Help

A skilled construction accident lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident and determine liability.
• Ensure you receive full workers’ compensation benefits.
• File a personal injury lawsuit if a third party was negligent.
• Negotiate settlements to maximize your compensation.

Final Thoughts

Construction workers put their lives on the line daily, and when accidents happen, they deserve full legal protection. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Contact the construction accident attorneys of Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers today at (973) 364-8300 to understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.