Like workers in every other industry, construction employees are entitled to a hazard-free work environment. The reality, though, is that the very nature of construction work is hazardous.
Unfortunately, construction site accidents are responsible for numerous injuries and deaths each year. Construction sites are often so dangerous because they are rapidly changing environments with lots of heavy equipment, machinery and large vehicles. As such, it is not uncommon for injuries sustained at construction sites to be catastrophic, even fatal.
By law, construction companies are required to make reasonable accommodations to ensure that workers are completing their work in a safe environment. Failure to keep the working environment safe may constitute negligence. Even with mandatory safety regulations, jobs in the construction industry are notoriously dangerous. Many times, construction workers may be hurt due to the negligence of third parties such as the property owner, contractor or the manufacturer of equipment or machinery.
There are numerous types of accidents that can occur on construction sites. Construction sites present potential hazards for workers, for bystanders and even motorists passing by. Some of the most common construction site accidents that result in death or serious injury include:
- Crane accidents
- Scaffolding accidents
- Electrocution (injury from electrical hazards)
- Faulty or defective equipment
- Forklift injuries
- Machinery accidents
- Toxic exposure
- Visitor or pedestrian injuries
- Workers falling from elevated heights
- Workers struck by falling equipment or objects
When a worker is injured while on the job at a construction site, he or she may suffer devastating injuries that require months, and sometimes years, of medical treatment and care. In order to receive any compensation beyond workers’ compensation, which is often inadequate to cover all expenses associated with a serious injury, an injured worker will need to seek help from a Chicago personal injury lawyer who can identify all potentially liable third-parties arising out of the injury.
Determining liability in construction accidents will require a thorough investigation of various people or entities, including the construction site’s landowner, contractors, subcontractors, engineers, material suppliers, and architects. When attempting to determine the liability for injuries sustained in a construction accident, it is important for victims to consult with a Chicago personal injury lawyer who is knowledgeable of the construction industry, including the standards mandated by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act).
Michael Osborne is a Chicago injury lawyer. The Law Office of Michael Osborne helps accident, wrongful death, and personal injury victims. To contact a Chicago personal injury attorney or learn more, visit Michaelosbornelaw.com or call (312) 315-1765.
