The most common construction accident is falling, especially from heights, such as scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops.
These incidents account for a significant portion of injuries on construction sites and can lead to serious harm, often requiring medical care and time away from work. Falls frequently occur due to inadequate safety measures, faulty equipment, or a lack of proper training.
Construction accident lawyers in Los Angeles assist injured workers by exploring their legal options for claiming compensation, including coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Common Causes of Falls on Construction Sites
Los Angeles personal injury lawyers assist clients who have suffered from various types of construction accidents. Falls are a leading cause of injuries and deaths on construction sites.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 421 fatal falls in the construction industry in 2023, out of a total of 1,075 construction fatalities.
Many of these incidents result from preventable hazards and unsafe working conditions, such as:
Lack of Guardrails or Safety Harnesses
When workers are not provided with proper fall protection, such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems, the risk of accidents increases significantly.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates these measures for workers operating at heights of six feet or more, but noncompliance continues to be a major issue.
Poorly Maintained Equipment
Faulty or poorly maintained equipment, such as ladders, scaffolding, and platforms, is another common cause of falls. OSHA requires regular inspections and equipment upkeep to ensure worker safety, as unstable tools or structures can lead to serious accidents.
Slippery or Unstable Surfaces
Slippery, uneven, or unstable surfaces are frequent contributors to falls. OSHA stresses the importance of maintaining clean, dry, and stable walking and working surfaces to minimize hazards. Sites that neglect these precautions create dangerous conditions for workers.
Fall injuries can lead to workers’ compensation claims, which provide coverage for medical expenses and a portion of lost wages.
Third-party liability claims may be an option if another party, such as a subcontractor or property owner, contributed to the unsafe conditions that caused the accident.
Other Common Construction Accidents
In addition to falls, construction sites pose several other hazards that can cause severe injuries or fatalities. OSHA refers to these as the “Focus Four Hazards,” which include falls, being struck by objects, electrocutions, and caught-in or caught-between incidents.
These hazards are the leading causes of construction-related fatalities and are a primary focus of OSHA’s safety initiatives.
Being Struck by Falling Objects
Struck-by accidents occur when tools, materials, or debris fall and hit workers below. These incidents often result from unsecured items, improper storage, or a lack of protective gear such as hard hats.
Electrocution
Electrocution is a significant cause of construction-related deaths, often occurring when workers come into contact with live power lines, exposed wiring, or improperly grounded equipment. OSHA recommends de-energizing circuits, maintaining safe distances from power sources, and using personal protective equipment to reduce the risk.
Caught-In or Caught-Between Incidents
These accidents happen when workers are crushed, pinned, or entangled between objects or machinery. Common causes include trench collapses, unguarded machinery, or workers being caught in heavy equipment with moving parts. OSHA emphasizes the importance of machine guarding, trench protection systems, and proper training to prevent these often-fatal incidents.
By addressing the Focus Four Hazards through robust safety programs, adherence to OSHA standards, and ongoing worker education, construction companies can significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries and fatalities on job sites.
(310) 526-8383Injuries Associated With the Most Common Construction Accidents
Construction accidents, including falls and other incidents, often result in severe and life-altering injuries due to the hazardous nature of job sites. Some of the most common injuries associated with these accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Caused by falls or falling objects, TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often leading to long-term impairments.
- Broken bones: Falls, machinery accidents, and struck-by incidents can cause fractures, from minor breaks to severe injuries requiring surgery.
- Spinal cord injuries: Falls or crushing incidents can result in partial or complete paralysis, often requiring extensive treatment and rehabilitation.
- Internal organ damage: Heavy impacts can cause hidden, life-threatening injuries to organs like the lungs or liver, requiring immediate medical attention.
Construction-related injuries can have devastating physical and financial consequences for workers and their families. A construction accident attorney can file a claim to seek recovery for immediate and ongoing losses, such as long-term medical care and reduced earning capacity.
How Los Angeles Construction Accident Lawyers Assist Injured Workers
Los Angeles construction accident lawyers help injured construction workers seek the compensation they deserve. Hiring legal representation allows victims to focus on their physical recovery while an attorney handles:
- Reporting the accident: Injured workers must report the accident to their employer within 30 days to preserve their right to file a workers’ compensation claim. A lawyer can guide workers through this process to ensure compliance with California law and prevent issues that could jeopardize their claim.
- Filing a workers‘ compensation claim: Workers in California have one year from the date of the injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. A lawyer ensures all deadlines are met and the required documentation is submitted to maximize the chances of a successful claim.
- Investigating the accident: Lawyers conduct thorough investigations to determine liability, reviewing safety practices, inspecting the job site, interviewing witnesses, and identifying potentially negligent parties, such as subcontractors or equipment manufacturers.
- Handling legal claims: In addition to or in place of filing for workers’ compensation, a lawyer can pursue a third-party personal injury claim if another party’s negligence contributed to the accident.
- Negotiating settlements: A lawyer negotiates with insurance companies and other parties to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term care needs.
Prompt medical care is essential for recovery and for documenting injuries. A lawyer ensures that medical evaluations and treatments are properly recorded to strengthen your claim.
Omega Law Group Can Assist You After a Construction Accident
At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we know that falling is the most common construction accident, but any type of accident in the industry can lead to serious consequences. The physical pain, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.
Our team is here to provide the support and advocacy you need to move forward. With millions of dollars recovered for injured clients, we have the experience and resources to handle your case.
“Putting our clients first. Always!” That’s more than a motto; it’s the foundation of everything we do. Call us for a free consultation.
