When you’re working in the construction field, you’re exposed to hundreds of dangerous situations. Construction poses a serious risk to workers, with over 9 percent of the injuries suffered by workers in the United States in 2009 being linked to construction workers alone. Construction workers also experience 4.3 nonfatal work injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time workers, showing just how dangerous the job can be for many.
Falls are the most common cause of injuries in construction. People working in construction may be working on roofing, in trees, on ladders or in other situations where heights must be considered. A fall from a substantial height can lead to serious injuries like a broken back or head injuries. Workers’ compensation is designed to cover these injuries, and if another party is involved, you could choose to pursue them for compensation as well in some cases. Your attorney can outline the best route for compensation in that situation, and he can also help if you’re denied the benefits you’re entitled to.
Equipment-related accidents are also a cause of many workplace accidents in the construction field. Heavy machinery, like a forklift, can fall over if it’s left unbalanced. This could lead to crushing injuries. Trucks or vehicles could collide with workers, causing impact wounds. New workers could even make simple mistakes that lead to equipment breaking down or malfunctioning.
Falling objects are also dangerous in the workplace. While workers do wear hard hats and safety equipment, the weight of some materials can still cause brainjuries and spinal cord problems. These injuries can be permanent and life-altering.
Source: FindLaw, “Common Construction Injury Types,” accessed Oct. 02, 2015
