Types of Construction Accidents

Construction sites in New Jersey can be dangerous. This is why construction crew members are required to undergo extensive training and to follow certain safety protocols. Understanding the most common risks and how to avoid them can help construction workers stay safe despite being in an inherently dangerous career.

Common Types of Construction Site Accidents

These are some of the most common types of construction site accidents:

Falling: Construction workers often climb high heights to complete projects. Falling from high heights can lead to severe injuries, especially if the proper fall protections aren’t in place.
Forklift accident: Forklifts can be dangerous. Construction workers usually undergo extensive training before using them.
Trench accident: Trenches can fall and trap workers inside them. A trench accident can be due to user error or problems with the trench itself.
Elevator accidents: Without the right safety precautions in place, construction workers can be at risk of falling down elevator shafts.
Electrocution: Exposed wires and electrical outlets can put construction workers at risk of electrocution.
Crane and hoist accidents: Cranes and lift hoists are common mechanical items used at the job site. Using them improperly can lead to accidents.
Caught-between accidents: With so much heavy machinery on-site, some construction workers may be at risk of getting caught between them.
Gas or fire injuries: Construction sites often include digging and trenching, which can lead to gas or fire injuries.
Slip and fall: Job sites are commonly slippery. Workers may be at risk of slipping and falling and injuring themselves.
Chemical injuries: A lot of heavy chemicals can often be found at construction job sites, exposing workers to inhalation of dangerous pollutants or chemical burns.
Repetitive stress injuries: It’s not uncommon for construction workers to experience repetitive stress injuries while using the same equipment all day long.

These are just some of the potential injuries that construction workers are exposed to. While some degree of risk is expected when working in construction, accidents can also be due to neglect or lack of training.

Common Causes of Construction Injuries

Some construction site injuries are truly accidents, whereas others may include neglect. For example, if a construction company doesn’t take the proper safety protocols in an attempt to get a project done faster, they may be liable if an accident occurs. If an employee lies about their training or certifications for using certain machinery, they may also be liable if an accident occurs as a result.

Construction Site Injuries and Workers’ Compensation Claims

Most construction workers are protected by workers’ compensation. This is an employee-sponsored type of insurance that covers medical bills and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job. However, claiming worker compensation benefits isn’t always as easy as it should be.

If you were injured while on the job, it’s only right that your work or their insurance cover your costs. If you’re finding it difficult to collect the compensation you deserve, it may be worth it to reach out to a workers’ compensation lawyer. A lawyer can help evaluate your claim, file an appeal, and fight to get you the funds you need to recover from an injury.

Contact an Essex County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer to Discuss Your New Jersey Workplace Injury Case

A workplace injury can be devastating, particularly if it prevents you from returning to work for an extended period of time. Although New Jersey Workers’ Compensation laws are supposed to provide you with reimbursement for medical expenses and replacement pay for missed time at work, it is not always easy to get the Workers’ Comp benefits you deserve. That is why you should speak with a knowledgeable Workers’ Compensation lawyer about your situation and get guidance throughout the claims process. The experienced Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Birkhold & Maider, LLC represent clients in Nutley, Fanwood, Hillside, Springfield, and all across New Jersey. Call (973) 784-8583 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation about your work injury case. Our main office is located at 189 Franklin Avenue #1 Nutley, NJ 07710, and we also have an office in Hamilton, NJ.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.