Construction work involves several inherently dangerous tasks that are frequently performed under hazardous conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that although approximately 8% of U.S. workers are in the construction industry, about 22% of fatalities occur within this division. In comprising the largest number of on-the-job deaths reported for any of the industry fields, understanding common causes of San Diego construction accidents is one step towards prevention.
In order to help prevent construction accident injuries and fatalities, workers should be aware of the following risks:
- Electrocution
- Scaffold instability
- Crane collapse
- Defective equipment and tools
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Chemical, dust and toxic substance exposure
- Falling objects
- Heavy machinery error
While these are just a few of many construction accident causes, improper employee training, employer or third party negligence, and poorly maintained work environments can all lead to traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, severe burn injury, lacerations, broken bones, paralysis, loss of limb, and death.
Construction workers who are seriously hurt on-the-job often face emotional trauma in addition to severe physical challenges. Because most construction workers serve as the primary wage earner for their families, having to take time off work to recover from injuries can impose several financial burdens. When a worker endures catastrophic injury and is unable to perform work duties altogether, the repercussions can be all the more devastating.
With the legal counsel and representation of an experienced San Diego construction accident attorney, injured construction workers may be able to obtain compensation for lost earnings, pain and suffering, medical bills, and other damages from responsible parties. Family members who have lost a loved one in a construction accident can also hold negligent individuals liable for their loss and associated damages. Steven Elia has dedicated years to helping individuals who have been injured and family members of those killed as a result of someone’s carelessness. To find out more about how skilled San Diego personal injury lawyer Steven Elia can help, please call 619-444-2244 today.
