We depend on construction workers to build our infrastructure, our shopping centers, our office buildings, and our homes. It’s not an easy job and, due to the nature of the work, the number of on-the-job accidents is higher than other industries. In fact, 21.4% of all on-the-job fatalities were in construction—that’s one in every five worker deaths. From the heavy machinery to high elevations to power tools, construction sites can be dangerous for both workers and passers-by.
Construction sites are required by law to keep their sites safe and abide by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to protect their workers. Even with these regulations and safety standards in place, accidents happen. But certain construction accidents tend to happen more often.
The “Fatal Four”
These four types of accidents are responsible for more than half of all construction worker fatalities:
- Falls are one of the leading causes of death for construction workers. Many sites require workers to work at dangerous. Unstable scaffolding, open manholes, unsteady ladders, or bad flooring can cause fatal falls. Those working above six feet are required to have a fall arrest system.
- Electrocution is another big risk on construction sites. Exposed wires, flammable materials and chemicals, live electricity are all factors, even to those who don’t work with electricity.
- Another potentially fatal accident is Struck By Object. Dropped objects, projectiles from explosions, and other debris can cause head or facial damage that may not always be stopped by a hard hat.
- The last type is called Caught In Between. Workers can get trapped in between pieces of equipment or other immovable objects, or crushed by falling debris.
Although injuries may be covered by workers’ compensation, every construction site is unique and there can be many issues at play, including defective products or negligence.
At Taylor Jones Taylor, our injury attorneys in Southaven, Hernando and Olive Branch can help you obtain the compensation you deserve if you were injured on a construction site. To learn more about our services, or to schedule a consultation, call 662-342-1300 or fill out our contact form.
Benjamin L. Taylor is a lifelong resident of DeSoto County and has distinguished himself in the area of products liability and personal injury law. He has a reputation as a fierce advocate for his clients and has obtained millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements over his career. He has been listed in the publication Super Lawyers of the Mid-South in the area of product liability. To learn more about Mr. Taylor, please refer to his biography page.
