Construction Injuries: Do I Need a Lawyer?
Construction is a high-risk industry, and construction accidents are unfortunately common. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the construction industry has the highest rate of injuries and fatalities of any industry in the United States. In 2019, there were more than 200,000 construction site injuries in the United States.
There are many potential hazards on construction sites, including falls, equipment failure, electrical hazards, structural collapse, fires and explosions, crushing injuries, and repetitive motion injuries. By taking appropriate safety measures and following safety guidelines, many construction accidents can be prevented.
Causes of Construction Accidents
There are many potential causes of construction accidents, including:
- Falls: Workers can fall from heights, such as scaffolding or roofs, or trip and fall on construction sites.
- Equipment failure: Defective or poorly maintained equipment can cause accidents on construction sites.
- Electrical hazards: Electric shock and electrocution are serious risks on construction sites.
- Structural collapse: Buildings or other structures under construction can collapse, causing injuries to workers.
- Fires and explosions: Construction sites are at risk for fires and explosions due to the presence of flammable materials and the use of welding and other hot work.
- Crushing injuries: Workers can be injured by heavy machinery or falling objects.
- Repetitive motion injuries: Repetitive motions and awkward postures can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries.
By taking appropriate safety measures and following safety guidelines, many construction accidents can be prevented.
Construction Accidents Lawyers
Construction accidents can be serious and life-threatening, and it's important to seek legal help if you've been injured in a construction accident. A construction accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and can represent you in negotiations with insurance companies or in court.
If you're considering hiring a construction accident lawyer, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Look for an attorney who has experience handling construction accident cases.
- Choose a lawyer who is licensed to practice in your state.
- Consider the attorney's reputation and track record of success.
- Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with the lawyer and that they are responsive to your needs.
- Be wary of lawyers who pressure you to sign a contract or agree to representation before you have had a chance to fully consider your options.
If you've been injured in a construction accident, it's important to seek legal help as soon as possible. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. You can learn more here.