Construction sites can be dangerous places, with various hazards that can lead to accidents and injuries. In this blog post, we will explore the most common causes of construction accidents, who can be injured in these accidents, whether you need to file a workers' compensation or a personal injury claim, the seriousness of construction injuries, and what you should do if you find yourself involved in a construction accident.
If you have been injured at a construction site in Los Angeles, it is essential to consult with a reliable Los Angeles injury attorney to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
Construction accidents can be caused by a range of factors, including negligence, inadequate safety measures, equipment failure, and human error. Some of the most common causes of construction accidents include:
Falls
Falls from heights, such as scaffolding or ladders, are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, people working in extraction and construction experienced 21,400 nonfatal workplace injuries due to trips, slips, and falls in 2020.
Struck by Objects
Construction sites often involve heavy machinery and equipment, which can cause serious injuries if workers or bystanders are struck or hit by these objects.
Electrocutions
Electrical accidents can occur when workers come into contact with live wires or faulty electrical equipment, leading to severe burns and electrocution.
Caught-in/Between
Construction workers can get caught or trapped in machinery or equipment, resulting in traumatic injuries or fatalities.
Chemical Accidents
Exposure to hazardous chemicals or improper handling of substances can lead to chemical burns, respiratory problems, and long-term health issues.
Fires and Explosions
Construction sites often involve combustible materials and flammable substances, making them susceptible to fires and explosions.
Who Can Be Injured in Construction Accidents?
Construction accidents can impact not only workers but also innocent passersby or visitors to the construction site. Construction sites are usually bustling with activity, with workers, contractors, and delivery personnel moving around, sometimes in close proximity to pedestrians or neighboring properties.
- Workers: Construction workers who are involved in accidents can suffer severe injuries that may prevent them from returning to work, leading to loss of income and medical expenses.
- Pedestrians: Pedestrians in the vicinity of a construction site can be at risk of injuries from falling debris, equipment malfunctions, or uneven surfaces.
- Neighboring Properties: Construction activities can cause damage to neighboring properties due to accidents, such as collapses or vibrations from heavy machinery.
It's crucial to prioritize safety measures to protect everyone involved in and around construction sites and to ensure that those affected by accidents receive the necessary support and compensation.
Do You Need to File a Workers' Compensation or a Personal Injury Claim?
The type of claim you need to file after a construction accident depends on your employment status and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Workers' Compensation Claims
If you are an employee injured in a construction accident, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides financial assistance for medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. Filing a workers' compensation claim can protect your rights as an employee and ensure that you receive the necessary medical treatment and compensation without having to prove negligence on the part of your employer.
Personal Injury Claims
In some cases, such as if a third party's negligence caused the accident, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against that party. Personal injury claims seek compensation for damages beyond what workers' compensation typically covers, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. It's important to consult with a Los Angeles injury attorney to determine the viability of a personal injury claim in your specific situation.
Construction Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries
Construction accidents can result in severe and life-altering injuries. Some common types of injuries that can occur in construction accidents include:
- Broken Bones: Falls, being struck by objects, and crushing accidents can cause fractures and broken bones.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Head injuries can occur from falls, being struck by objects, or explosions, leading to long-term cognitive impairment or even death.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls from heights or being caught in heavy machinery can cause devastating spinal cord injuries, resulting in paralysis or loss of sensation.
- Burns: Electrical injuries, chemical accidents, and fires can cause severe burns, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Amputations: Accidents involving heavy machinery or equipment can result in traumatic injuries that require amputation of limbs.
These injuries can have a profound impact on a victim's life, physically, emotionally, and financially. Seeking proper legal representation can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from your construction accident.
What to Do After a Construction Accident
If you have been involved in a construction accident in Los Angeles, it is crucial to take the following steps to protect your rights and ensure that you have the necessary evidence for your claim:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor at first.
- Report the Accident: Report the accident to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. This will help create an official record of the incident.
- Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible, including photographs of the accident scene, injuries, and any hazardous conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
- Get Witness Statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, gather their contact information and ask them to provide a statement detailing what they saw.
- Consult with an Attorney: Contact a reputable Los Angeles injury attorney specializing in construction accidents. An experienced attorney will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Remember, time is of the essence when filing a claim, as there are often deadlines for taking legal action. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible will ensure that you meet all necessary deadlines and have the best chance of a successful outcome.
Call a Los Angeles Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident in Los Angeles, the skilled team at Arshakyan Law Firm is here to help. With years of experience and millions of dollars recovered for our clients, we have a proven track record of success in representing personal injury victims.
Contact us today at 888.851.5005 to schedule a free consultation with one of our dedicated Los Angeles injury attorneys. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and work tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
Remember, you don't have to face the aftermath of a construction accident alone. Let Arshakyan Law Firm fight for you and help you get your life back on track. Send us an email today.