The construction profession is undoubtedly one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. in fact, nearly 1,000 (or about 20%) of the 4,674 worker fatalities in the U.S. in 2017 occurred in the construction industry. To put it another way, one out of every five occupational deaths occur on a construction site each year.
These numbers are alarming, but what are the most common construction accidents that contribute to them? Below, this construction site accident attorney in Bartow, Florida is going to review the four most common causes of worker deaths in the US construction industry.
Slips and Falls
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of injuries (and deaths) at a construction site. While the most serious injuries occur when working at heights, many slips and falls occur at ground level. The primary causes of slip and fall accidents are uneven/wet/muddy grounds, materials and tools lying around, and flimsy scaffolding and ladders. Slip and fall accidents generally result in back injuries, sprained ankles, knee strains, broken wrists, and torn muscles. Construction site accident attorneys in Bartow, Florida deal with these types of cases all the time, so do not hesitate to get in touch with one if you need legal guidance.
Electrocution
Electrocutions on construction sites can result in some severe injuries, or even death. Overhead power lines, damaged or exposed power cables, malfunctioning tools, a lack of ground fault protection, inadequate wiring, and improper extension cord use are some of the factors that can result in a job site accident in Bartow. Common electrical-related injuries include burns, aching or tender muscles, “pins-and-needles” sensations, and impaired mobility.
Electric shock accidents are easily preventable if essential safeguards are put in place. Unfortunately, most of these accidents are caused by negligence by the construction company or site manager. Regardless of who is responsible, an experienced construction site injury attorney in Bartow can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Caught-in or Caught-Between Accidents
Accidents where construction workers are crushed between two or more heavy objects are known as caught-in and caught-between accidents. These accidents sometimes occur when operating heavy construction machinery with moving parts. Being involved in a caught-in/caught-between accident can result in serious injuries and even death.
Struck-by Accidents
Heavy construction machinery — such as excavators, bulldozers, trenchers, cranes, and dump trucks — are involved in about 75% of all struck-by fatalities. Struck-by accidents can also be caused by falling concrete or masonry walls. Even when they are not particularly heavy, falling objects still pose a significant risk to construction workers. Wearing a hard hat at work can help to reduce this risk. However, despite taking the appropriate safety procedures, thousands of employees are injured each year by falling objects at construction sites. Rib fracture, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injuries are some common examples of struck-by injuries.
Looking for the Most Trusted Construction Site Accident Attorney in Bartow, Florida?
If you have been injured in a construction accident in Bartow, you may have a long road to recovery ahead of you. But fortunately, you can recover compensatory damages from those who are responsible. These damages may include lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related losses. A qualified construction site accident attorney in Bartow, Florida can help you recover the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.
Over the years, the personal injury attorneys at O’Toole Law Group have represented many job site accident victims. Our team is here to stand up for your rights and fight for what you deserve. To schedule a free legal consultation, call our office at 863-533-5525 or contact us online today. We handle personal injury cases on a contingency basis, which means you won’t pay anything until your case is won.
