Accidents can happen on a construction site suddenly and in many unexpected ways. In 2022, a construction worker died every 96 minutes from injuries sustained on the job.
Even non-fatal accidents can cause life-changing injuries and medical bills. That’s why it’s so important for companies to follow safety regulations and educate their employees.
The following guide will explain how to stay safe and when to call a construction accident lawyer. Read on to learn about accident prevention and what to do if you suffer an injury.
Preventing Falling Hazards
Falls account for more injuries on construction sites than any other accident. Workers often fall from things like rooftops, ladders, and scaffolding while performing their jobs.
Loose materials and tools can also lead to dangerous falling hazards. Some construction sites fail to use the proper fall protection systems to keep their employees safe.
To help prevent falls, always use lifts and stairs instead of ladders if they are available to you. Make sure that harnesses and other PPE fit properly before starting a task. Never stay on ladders and scaffolding longer than it’s necessary.
You should also try to keep your work area as tidy as possible. Doing so will help limit trips, slips, and other falls while on the job.
Avoiding Struck-by and Caught-in Accidents
A caught-in accident is when a construction worker gets stuck between pieces of equipment or other objects. They usually happen when operating heavy machinery, working in trenches, and working between structural components.
The best way to prevent this kind of accident is to closely observe safety practices and plan accordingly. Avoid walking or standing between moving materials and fixed structures. Make sure you’re aware of any vehicles and stacked materials in your workspace.
A struck-by accident is when a worker gets hit by equipment like vehicles, cranes, and forklifts. As you might imagine, a machine accident can cause a lot of pain and suffering.
Always keep a safe distance from machinery and vehicles to help limit your risk of being struck. Check that your work area has enough visibility so that you can see any oncoming vehicle and they can see you as well.
Electrical Safety
Electricity is a crucial part of any construction site, but it can also put workers in a lot of danger. Defective electrical equipment, unmaintained sources of power, and live wires can all lead to electrocution.
To help stay safe, never leave your tools near power sources or power lines. Always unplug any electrical equipment as soon as you’re done using it. If possible, only use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) to power your tools and other equipment.
Pay close attention to your surroundings and take notes during any training provided by your employer. Also, stay mindful of the weather and never operate electrical equipment in unsafe conditions.
Staying Focused
You must know when to take breaks and never push yourself past your limits. Construction jobs often have strict deadlines to meet and cause a lot of stress to workers.
Things like stress and fatigue can greatly reduce your focus and lead to avoidable accidents. If you’re feeling ill or exhausted, tell a supervisor and request the day off to help protect yourself and others around you.
Remember that stress and anxiety can also contribute to a lack of focus at a construction site. Practice self-care and prioritize your mental health outside of work to help stay safe while on the job.
When to Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer
Some construction-related accidents are unavoidable and happen at no fault of your own. A construction accident lawyer can help guide clients through the confusing world of construction law.
They support injured construction workers impacted by injuries at the accident site. These lawyers have advanced knowledge of the construction industry’s regulations. Examples include OSHA guidelines, personal injury litigation, and workers’ compensation.
Not every accident requires a lawyer, but you’ll likely need professional help if you require extensive medical care. You should also seek an attorney if the accident stemmed from safety violations by your employer.
Some employers will also dispute liability after an accident occurs. It can be a very stressful situation on top of lost wages and other uncertainties, but a lawyer can help.
The Process of Using a Lawyer
First, schedule a consultation with a construction accident lawyer to go over the accident and develop a strategy for your case. They’ll collect evidence from medical records, site inspection reports, and statements from witnesses.
Your selected lawyer can handle every step of the process starting with filing a claim. They’ll also try to negotiate a settlement for you and present the case in court if necessary.
Make sure to choose a lawyer with the most experience possible so that they make the right decision about settling or going to court. Communication is also key, so make sure they’re someone who explains the process in a way you can understand.
A skilled lawyer looks at more than bills to get you the most compensation. For example, an accident might cause disability or require future medical treatments. They’ll also factor in things like emotional distress and lost wages.
Most construction accident lawyers don’t receive payment unless you reach a settlement or win your case. However, it’s crucial to ask about things like payment structures and any extra fees you might owe before moving forward.
Remember to contact a lawyer as soon as possible if you’re injured on a construction site.
Winning Your Case
The thought of pursuing legal action against an employer can be very stressful and overwhelming. But a skilled construction accident lawyer in your corner can change that. You can rest assured that you’ll receive the best compensation possible.
If you’ve suffered an injury at a construction site, contact us at Kearney, Freeman, Fogarty & Joshi, PLLC immediately. We handle cases ranging from slips and falls to wrongful death.
We have proudly served clients in North Virginia for over 30 years. Our positive case results speak for themselves, and we always ensure that our clients walk away satisfied.
