If you work on a construction site, you’re not only tough, but you’re willing to accept a high amount of risk. Construction work is one of the most dangerous occupations in the country – and the world, for that matter. But just because there’s inherent risk in this kind of job, that doesn’t mean a worker should have to face financial burdens after being hurt in an accident caused by negligence.
A Miami construction site accident lawyer with Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh will fight aggressively on your behalf to help you obtain the compensation to which you’re entitled. We’ll investigate to determine who’s to blame, and do everything we can to make them pay dearly for your suffering.
If you would like to schedule a free consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us online or give us a call at (561) 295-5825.
Construction Accident Statistics
More than 4,700 construction workers died while on the job in 2020 – that’s a staggering number. The most dangerous sectors of the construction industry that year were transportation/material moving (1.282 deaths) and construction/extraction (976). Nearly 175,000 workers were seriously injured.
Construction Site Hazards
There are always a range of potential hazards present at a construction site. Some common hazards that may be present on a construction site include:
- Falls. Workers may be at risk of falling from heights, such as when working on scaffolding or roofs.
- Moving vehicles. There may be heavy machinery, such as cranes and bulldozers, operating on the construction site, which can pose a risk to workers. Road construction workers always face danger, and are often injured when motorists hit them after trying to avoid debris on the road.
- Electrical hazards. Exposed wiring or faulty electrical equipment can present a risk of electrocution or fire.
- Structural hazards. Workers may be at risk of being struck by falling objects, or of working in unstable or collapsing structures.
- Chemical hazards. Workers may be exposed to hazardous chemicals when working with paints, solvents, and other materials.
Construction site managers must be aware of these hazards and to take appropriate precautions to protect their workers from injury. If they’re negligent, they could be liable for any injuries that result. Employees will likely pursue compensation through worker’s comp, but they may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit as well.
Injuries Caused by Hazards
These are just a few of the more common types of injuries that happen on a construction site on a regular basis.
- Broken bones and head injuries. Any sort of fall – especially one from an elevated space – can snap bones and result in devastating brain injuries.
- Crush injuries. Employees may be at risk of being caught in or between heavy machinery or other equipment, which can lead to crush injuries or amputations.
- Burns. Electrical fires can cause excruciating burns, as can exposure to hazardous chemicals.
- Eye injuries. Flying debris or dust can severely injure eyes.
- Respiratory problems. Inhaling dust and debris can lead to respiratory problems, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Musculoskeletal disorders. Repetitive tasks or lifting heavy objects can lead to musculoskeletal disorders, such as back injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Who’s at Fault for My Construction Site Injury?
If you’re injured on a construction site, determining who’s at fault for the injury – and responsible for your accident-related expenses as a result – can be complex. An attorney will need to investigate the circumstances of the injury to determine liability.
In general, if the injury was caused by the actions of another person, that person may be held responsible for the injury. This could be a co-worker, a supervisor, or a third party, such as a subcontractor or supplier.
If the injury was caused by a hazardous condition on the construction site, the employer or property owner may be held responsible for the injury. This could be the case if the hazard was caused by the employer’s failure to maintain a safe work environment or to provide necessary safety equipment.
You’ll need to speak with an attorney who is experienced in construction site injury cases to determine who may be liable for your injury, and to clearly spell out all of your legal options.
How Much Will My Settlement Be?
The amount of a settlement in a construction site accident case will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the injury, the amount of medical expenses incurred, the amount of lost wages, and the impact of the injury on the victim’s quality of life.
The more severe the injury, the greater the damages that are usually awarded. For example, a victim who suffers a permanent disability or disfigurement may be entitled to a larger settlement than a victim who suffers a minor injury that fully heals.
In addition to compensating the victim for medical expenses and lost wages, a settlement may also include damages for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and other non-economic damages.
It is difficult to estimate the amount of a settlement in a construction site accident case without knowing the specific circumstances of the injury. An experienced personal injury attorney can review the facts of your case and provide an estimate of the potential settlement range you can expect.
Do I Need to Hire a Miami Construction Site Accident Lawyer?
Definitely. An attorney who is experienced in construction site accident cases can provide valuable assistance in several ways. In the majority of instances, you won’t have to pay a dime unless you win your case. These are just a few of the many things your Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh Miami construction site accident lawyer can do.
- Investigate the accident. An attorney can gather evidence to determine the cause of the accident and who may be liable for the injury.
- Negotiate with insurance companies. An attorney can handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf, including negotiating a settlement.
- Help you understand your legal options. An attorney can explain your legal rights and options and help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
- Represent you in court. If necessary, an attorney can represent you in court and advocate on your behalf to help you recover the maximum damages.
Contact KMW Today to Speak with an Experienced Construction Site Accident Lawyer
Speak with a Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh Miami construction site accident lawyer as soon as possible after a construction site accident to ensure that your legal rights are protected. Contact us online or call (561) 295-5825 for a free case review.