Recent events in Florida have once again underscored the perilous nature of construction work. From a crane toppling over and tragically claiming a life, to another unfortunate incident where a crane made contact with power lines, resulting in a fatal accident, the dangers construction workers face are real.
A construction accident can occur for many reasons, including inadequate communication, poor training, unsafe equipment, and environmental factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore nine of the most common causes of construction accidents in Florida and what you can do if you have safety concerns.
Have you been injured? We’re here to help. Call us at (561) 473-9800 to schedule a FREE consultation with an experienced and compassionate West Palm Beach workers’ compensation lawyer. You don’t need to suffer alone!
Common Causes of Construction Accidents in Florida
While the causes of construction accidents can be varied, there are some that emerge more frequently than others. Let’s delve into nine common reasons:
#1: Falls from Heights
Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or roofs are some of the most common causes of a construction worker injury or death at construction sites. Employers are required to provide safe working conditions and fall protection systems that comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Contractors and workers should also receive training on how to use fall protection equipment correctly.
#2: Crane-Related Accidents
Cranes are indispensable tools in the construction landscape, pivotal for lifting and transporting hefty materials across job sites. However, their towering presence and intricate operation come with inherent risks.
Malfunctions, toppling, or unintended contact with other utilities or structures can lead to devastating outcomes. Such complexities necessitate specialized training for operators and rigorous safety procedures. The recent incidents in Florida highlight the gravity of crane-related accidents, underscoring the vital importance of preventative measures, regular equipment checks, and continuous operator education.
#3: Struck by Objects
Workers at construction sites are at risk of being struck by falling objects, such as materials, tools, or debris. Employers should provide protective equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots. Workers should also be vigilant while moving around the construction site to avoid potential hazards.
#4: Electrocution
Electrocution hazards are prevalent at construction sites, particularly when working with power tools or around overhead power lines. Workers should receive training on electrical safety protocols, and employers should ensure that electrical equipment is correctly grounded and always inspected before use.
#5: Caught in Between
Construction sites often involve working around heavy machinery and equipment, which can cause workers to get caught in between objects or equipment. Workers should stay clear of machinery that is in operation and be trained on how to use machines safely.
#6: Chemical Exposure
Construction workers can be exposed to various hazardous chemicals on a job site ranging from cleaning supplies to gas fumes. To prevent injury, it’s essential to ensure that workers have appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and are trained in how to properly handle and store chemicals and hazardous materials.
#7: Trench Collapse
Workers at construction sites also work on trenches or excavations, which can collapse and bury workers. Employers should provide proper safety equipment, such as shoring and trench boxes, and implement safety procedures such as regular inspections and soil analysis.
#8: Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repetitive motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and bursitis are common on construction sites. These types of injuries happen due to repetitive activity, typically painting, drilling, sanding, or hammering. To prevent such injuries, avoid prolonged exposure to repetitive activities.
#9: Insufficient Training
Lack of proper training can lead to significant problems on a construction site. Workers who aren’t trained correctly might not use tools or machines safely, leading to accidents. Additionally, without the right training, communication between workers can break down, increasing the risk of misunderstandings and potential hazards.
Addressing Safety Concerns: Your Proactive Steps
If your working environment feels unsafe or if you’ve witnessed safety oversights, it’s crucial to act promptly:
- Inform Your Immediate Superior: Communicate your concerns, offering specifics about the perceived dangers and requesting prompt action.
- OSHA Complaint: Should you believe that safety regulations are being bypassed, filing a complaint with OSHA is a crucial step to take.
- Consult a Construction Injuries Attorney: After an injury, understanding your rights is essential. A construction injuries attorney can inform you of your rights and the potential for compensation.
- Union Channels: If unionized, your union representative can offer guidance and support.
- Work Refusal: If a construction site poses immediate and severe danger, and no corrective measures are in sight, you have the right to refuse work, though this step should be taken with due consideration.
How a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Help
Dealing with the aftermath of a construction accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and potential loss of income. This is where a workers’ comp lawyer becomes invaluable. Here’s how they can assist:
- Understanding Your Rights: An experienced workers’ comp lawyer can provide clarity on your rights as an injured worker, ensuring you’re aware of the compensation you’re entitled to under Florida workers’ compensation law.
- Filing Claims Correctly: The process of filing for workers’ compensation involves intricate paperwork and strict deadlines. Any missteps can delay or even jeopardize your claim. A lawyer ensures that all procedures are accurately followed.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Having a lawyer by your side ensures that your interests are aggressively represented, maximizing the benefits you receive.
- Appealing Denied Claims: If your claim is unjustly denied or if you feel the compensation offered is inadequate, a workers’ comp lawyer can guide you through the appeals process, making a case for a fair settlement.
- Providing Legal Counsel: Beyond just the claim, a lawyer offers invaluable advice on related issues, such as returning to work post-injury, dealing with employer retaliation, or exploring potential third-party lawsuits if someone else was at fault for the accident.
In essence, a workers’ comp lawyer acts as your advocate, ensuring that in a system filled with complexities, your rights and interests remain at the forefront.
Construction accidents can cause long-lasting physical and emotional damage to workers and their families. As an employer or an individual worker, it’s up to you to take responsibility for your safety and the safety of those around you. Employers should take a proactive approach by developing and implementing safety programs, providing safety equipment, and ensuring that workers are adequately trained.
Workers, on the other hand, should always remain vigilant, follow safety procedures, and report any unsafe conditions immediately. By working together and taking a collective approach to safety, we can reduce the number of construction accidents and injuries in Florida.
DiBiaggio Law: Advocating for Florida’s Construction Workers
Construction accidents can be harrowing, both physically and emotionally. At DiBiaggio Law, our commitment is to guide you through these tumultuous times, ensuring your rights remain uncompromised. With decades of experience in championing the cause of injured construction workers across Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties, we’re here for you.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a construction accident in Florida, reach out to DiBiaggio Law today to schedule your FREE consultation. We’re not just your attorneys; we’re your advocates.
Call us at (561) 473-9800 or complete our online form to book your FREE consultation with a West Palm Beach workers’ compensation lawyer. Let us shoulder the legal burden while you focus on healing and recovery.
Copyright © 2023. DiBiaggio Law. All rights reserved.
The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.
DiBiaggio Law
605 Belvedere Road, Suite 17
West Palm Beach, FL 33405
(561) 473-9800
https://dibiaggiolaw.com
