Construction sites are known to be the most dangerous working environments. The large machines in operations, the jagged pieces of stones, glass and metals, the high elevations and loud noises make accidents way too much common. Some of these accidents can result in serious life altering injuries or long-term disabilities.
The most common injury is the crushing injury. A crushing injury occurs when large machines with moving parts come into contact with a person. The machines could include a swinging crane, a piston or any other moving part that can cause injury. The workers operating the machines, therefore, need to be careful and alert at all times to ensure safe usage. Other people working close to a site also need to beware of the machines. These accidents rarely result in lacerations but can be severe. They can cause broken bones, damage to internal body parts or even brain damage.
Falling objects are also one of the leading causes of crushing injuries. It can all be caused by tools, materials, or collapsing structures. While helmets and hardhats can help prevent the impact of the fall, the shoulders, neck, and other body parts are susceptible to damage. Construction site workers should always beware of possible threats to their health that are caused by these structures. They should also be careful not to drop items especially when others are working below them.
Construction vehicles like bobcats and forklifts can cause crushing injuries. Even a low-speed encounter between a worker and the vehicles could lead to broken bones and damaged organs. A low-speed collision between the vehicle and an employee can result in broken bones or damaged organs. Drivers should be very careful when driving and workers should be careful when moving around vehicles.
However, regardless of the precautions taken, construction workers always get regularly injured. Workers compensation might help with many financial issues it doesn’t always cover all the bills and expenses. In cases like that, it is important for the injured to file a civil suit. However, determining exactly who was responsible for the injury at the site might be difficult. With building owners, contractors and third parties all working in the same place, determining the people responsible might require the intervention of a construction lawyer.
Who is Liable?
The law makes it a legal responsibility for owners of buildings and contractors to apply reasonable care in a construction site. The parties who might be held include;
• Building owners
• General contractors
• Architects
• Building supply manufacturers
• Landlords
The Scaffolding Law
Any worker who is injured when handling scaffolds, hoists, ladders, slings, hangers stays, braces, pulleys, ropes, blocks, irons, and similar devices may sue a property owner or contractor who did not provide proper safety.
The severity of construction accidents and injuries cannot be underestimated and may range from internal damage to broken bones and limbs that could require amputation. If you, your loved one or someone you know has been a victim of a crushing injury on a construction site, contact the construction lawyers at http://www.klezmermaudlin.com/practice-area/construction-accidents. We will help you understand your rights and determine the compensation you require.
