Construction Still the Most Dangerous Field
In 2017, over 20% of workplace deaths happened on construction sites, accounting for nearly 1,000 individuals. Thousands more were injured in workplace accidents, and a study done by the Center for Construction Research and Training found that 3 out of 4 construction workers who stay on the job for 45 years (the length of their career) will suffer an injury that results in disability. Many of these deaths or injuries are totally preventable, brought on by risky worker behavior or employers failing to provide safe work environments. Yet, the construction industry continues to pay more in workers’ compensation than any other industry in lieu of overhauling safety practices.
Causes and Consequences of Construction Site Accidents
Any workplace injury can be scary, but with the heavy machinery and great heights involved in construction work, accidents can result in serious damage and lasting disability. OSHA has reported that a majority of construction deaths are caused by four incident types:
- Falling from height
- Being struck by a falling object
- Electrocution
- Getting caught in or between heavy machinery
Those lucky enough to survive construction site accidents may suffer:
- Head injury including concussion
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Eye injury
- Broken bones
- Loss of hearing
- Burns or electrical shock
- Nerve damage
- Internal damage
- Overuse injury
Disabling injuries like these can cost workers their jobs and diminish their overall life enjoyment. If you or someone you love has been hurt on the job, the good news is, you don’t have to go it alone.
What to Do if You’re Hurt at Work
After a workplace accident that results in serious injury, an industrial accidents attorney can help evaluate your case and guide you through applying for workers’ compensation. Workers’ comp insurance covers on-the-job injury regardless of fault—but you may have to fight for the settlement you deserve.
All jobs come with danger, some more than others. Having a knowledgeable and dependable advocate on your side can make the process of getting compensation for medical bills, lost work, and more much easier.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a construction accident,
contact us online
or call (504) 475-2429 for a free consultation.
