When you or a loved one is hurt in a construction accident, there may be more than one party responsible, including some that may not be obvious right away. Finding these parties and holding them accountable is important – and it can only be done with the help of a construction accident lawyer.
Common Construction Accident Injuries
Construction sites are fraught with potential hazards, leading to a variety of injuries that can have long-lasting impacts on workers. Understanding the common types of construction accident injuries can highlight the importance of safety measures and the need for proper compensation when accidents occur. Here are some of the most frequently seen injuries on construction sites:
1. Falls from Heights
Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or roofs are among the most common construction site accidents. These falls can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and even death.
2. Struck-by Incidents
Construction workers are often at risk of being struck by heavy equipment, falling debris, or moving vehicles. These incidents can cause severe trauma, including head injuries, fractures, and internal injuries.
3. Caught-in/between Accidents
Workers can get caught in or between heavy machinery, equipment, or collapsing structures. These accidents can lead to crushing injuries, amputations, and other life-threatening conditions.
4. Electrocutions
Exposure to live wires, faulty electrical systems, or improper grounding can result in electrocution. Electrical injuries can range from minor burns to severe nerve damage, cardiac arrest, or death.
5. Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repetitive tasks, such as hammering or lifting, can lead to musculoskeletal disorders over time. Common repetitive motion injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and chronic back pain.
6. Chemical Exposures
Construction workers often handle hazardous materials that can cause chemical burns, respiratory issues, or poisoning if proper safety measures are not followed. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic health problems, such as lung disease or cancer.
7. Hearing Loss
Prolonged exposure to loud noises from machinery and tools can result in hearing loss. Without adequate hearing protection, workers may suffer permanent damage that affects their quality of life.
Most big construction companies hire savvy injury defense attorneys to protect their interests. But when construction accidents happen, the owners, architects, insurance companies, and equipment manufacturers may each be responsible. Through comprehensive litigation, we can hold each negligent party accountable for your injuries.
That’s why you need to hire an experienced Tampa construction accident attorney to help you navigate through the injury claims process.
Our Tampa Construction Accident Lawyer Represents:
- Crane accidents
- Scaffolding accidents
- Compressed gases
- Skylight installation falls
- Roof crush accidents
- Floor opening falls
- Logging accidents
- Welding accidents
- Mesothelioma and asbestos disease
- Benzene cancer
- Work-related auto accidents
Work-related injuries or illnesses are typically covered by your state’s workers’ compensation laws. These laws are meant to eliminate employee lawsuits for fault and negligence by classifying workers’ compensation as “no fault”.
That means workers don’t have to prove their employer’s negligence. But the trade-off is it’s difficult for workers to sue their employers under most circumstances. Furthermore, many workers compensation programs severely limit the amount of money that can be awarded. It also limits the length of time compensation can be paid out.
All of this means that it’s hard for workers to hold their employers accountable. But that’s where KFB Law comes in.
Valid Construction Accident Claims in Florida
Construction sites are inherently dangerous, and accidents can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Under Florida law, workers and their families have the right to seek compensation when an accident occurs due to negligence or unsafe working conditions. Here are key points to understand about valid construction accident claims in Florida:
Types of Construction Accident Claims
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Workers’ Compensation Claims: In Florida, most construction workers are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. This no-fault system allows injured workers to receive medical benefits and wage replacement without proving fault. However, it typically limits the ability to sue the employer directly.
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Third-Party Liability Claims: If a construction accident is caused by a third party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner, the injured worker may have grounds for a third-party liability claim. These claims can cover damages not available under workers’ compensation, such as pain and suffering.
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Product Liability Claims: If defective machinery or tools cause an accident, injured workers can file a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty equipment.
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Wrongful Death Claims: When a construction accident results in fatal injuries, the surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim. This claim seeks compensation for loss of support, funeral expenses, and other related damages.
Proving a Construction Accident Claim
To establish a valid construction accident claim in Florida, certain elements must be demonstrated:
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Duty of Care: The plaintiff must show that the defendant had a legal duty to ensure a safe working environment. Employers, contractors, and equipment manufacturers all have specific duties under Florida law.
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Breach of Duty: It must be proven that the defendant breached this duty by failing to adhere to safety regulations, providing faulty equipment, or otherwise acting negligently.
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Causation: There must be a direct link between the breach of duty and the injury sustained. The plaintiff needs to demonstrate that the accident would not have occurred but for the defendant’s actions or inactions.
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Damages: The injured party must provide evidence of the damages suffered, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In wrongful death cases, the family must show the impact of the loss on their lives.
