Construction sites are probably some of the most dangerous workplaces of all. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the most dangerous job sectors in the U.S. include construction, transport, logging, fishing and hunting, and ground maintenance.
Construction workers may have to contend with many dangers on a daily basis, including working from great heights on scaffolding, working with heavy equipment, and managing toxic substances or rough terrain. Accidents on construction sites can occur due to a number of factors, such as a worker’s own mistake, another contractor’s fault, an employers’ negligence, or a co-worker’s negligence.
Common Construction Site Accidents in Arlington Heights
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 5,333 workers died on the job in 2019. The agency also names the four most common construction hazards, which include:
However, there can potentially be many different types of accidents on construction sites, such as getting trapped when a trench or floor collapses, injuries from overexertion, injuries from working long hours in inclement weather, and more.
Accidents on local construction sites are largely avoidable. However, even a careful and cautious worker who diligently follows all the rules and regulations can find themselves in a devastating and life-altering accident. If this has happened to you or a loved one, and you do not know where to turn for help, consider working with an Arlington Heights construction accident attorney as soon as possible for legal assistance and advice.
Construction Site Injuries
Getting injured on a construction site can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. The consequences of severe and life-changing injuries can negatively impact a person’s entire life, potentially ruining their physical, mental, and financial health.
Those who survive a tragic construction site accident might be unable to work for the rest of their lives. They may also require long-term medical assistance and rehabilitative therapy, further contributing to financial losses and hardship.
Injuries in construction accidents can be severe and include:
- Fractures and dislocations
- Head and brain trauma
- Burns, cuts, and lacerations
- Limb amputations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Injuries due to toxic substances
- Loss of a sense, such as eyesight or hearing
- Crush injuries
While you may be able to rely on some worker’s compensation benefits, they may not be enough to compensate you for all your damages, including pain and suffering and loss of life enjoyment. However, if you suffered life-changing injuries due to another individual or company’s negligence, they should pay for your damages.
While you may be unable to sue your employer directly, you could potentially have legal recourse against a negligent third party. Construction site accidents can be challenging to prove and litigate. Having a dedicated Arlington Heights construction injury lawyer by your side can help you fight for your rights and compensation after an accident on a worksite.
Heavy Equipment Used on Arlington Heights Construction Sites
Heavy equipment represents some of the main risks for accidents and horrific injuries on construction sites. Heavy vehicles and heavy equipment used at construction sites can be a considerable risk for fatalities, resulting in many deaths every year.
Heavy equipment and vehicles used on construction sites can include:
- Cranes
- Dump trucks
- Compactors
- Forklifts
- Boom lifts
- Bulldozers
- Excavators
- Asphalt pavers
- Drum rollers
- Logging machinery
Maintaining Construction Equipment and Machinery
Heavy equipment and other machinery need periodic maintenance and servicing in order to be safe for those who use them. Those renting out such machinery must make sure that the equipment and vehicles are in good working order without defects. Qualified and licensed maintenance professionals should regularly inspect equipment.
Not using reasonable care when it comes to maintenance can put construction workers’ lives and health at risk. A third party renting out defective equipment in Arlington Heights can potentially be held negligent for any resulting construction site accidents and damages.
Licensing and Qualifications for Operating Heavy Machinery
Operators of heavy equipment and machinery should have adequate training, qualifications, and licenses required by law. An employer or contractor onsite must ensure that all workers are adequately qualified for their tasks and for working with heavy equipment. Not doing so could be considered negligence.
If you are not sure who is responsible for your construction accident and injuries, contact an Arlington Heights attorney with The Kryder Law Group for a free case review.
Third-Party Responsibility for Construction Accidents
When a construction worker passes away or suffers serious injuries in an accident on a construction site, they or their surviving family members could potentially hold a negligent third party to account.
Third parties can include but are not limited to:
- Other contractors or companies working at a construction site
- The owner of defective or faulty equipment
- A property owner
- The manufacturer of defective construction machinery
If another company or individual’s negligence caused your accident or the death of your loved one, you can seek legal help from an Arlington Heights construction accident attorney as soon as possible.
The Kryder Law Group Can Fight for Your Rights
Worker’s compensation can help those injured on construction sites, to a degree. However, if a third party caused your accident or your employer did not have worker’s compensation insurance, you may wish to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Compensation available in a successful construction site accident claim can include:
- All medical expenses now and in the future
- Lost income and future lost wages
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Physical and emotional pain and anguish
- Loss of a limb or a sense
- Loss of life quality
Get in Touch with an Arlington Heights Construction Accident Attorney Today
Knowing when and how to file a claim can be confusing, especially if you are not sure whether a third party caused your Arlington Heights construction site accident. The Kryder Law Group can be here for you and expertly analyze your claim and options for legal recourse.
Consider contacting us as soon as you can after a construction accident, as the deadlines for construction accident lawsuits can vary from one state to another. Waiting too long can bar you from recovering compensation.
It can be particularly helpful to contact an attorney before signing any settlement offers from the at-fault party’s insurance. We can ensure that a settlement offer adequately compensates you for all of your damages. If needed, we can take your case to trial to fight for a fair settlement.
Call The Kryder Law Group today for a free consultation with an Arlington Heights construction accident lawyer.
(312) 223-1700