What Accident Kills the Most Construction Workers?

Accounting for more than 35% of construction worker deaths, falls are responsible for the most fatal accidents on construction sites in the U.S.  When comparing the most dangerous industries in which to work, construction sites are understandably at the top of the list. Construction workers perform their duties for long hours at dizzying heights, in the presence of dangerous tools and large machinery.

While it may not come as a surprise that construction is dangerous work, every construction worker has the right to expect safe conditions on the job site. When negligent safety measures, faulty equipment, or other factors cause job-related accidents, the subsequent injuries can devastate the lives of workers and their families.

The construction accident attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright have seen the catastrophic impact workplace injuries can have on construction workers and their families. We have extensive experience in these complex matters. If you or your loved one has been hurt in a construction accident, we can help you pursue the full and fair compensation you need to move forward. 

What Are “The Fatal Four” Causes of Construction Worker Deaths?

According to the most recent workplace injury statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction laborers rank fifth in U.S. occupations with the most job-related injuries and illnesses. The other most dangerous professions include (1) nursing assistants, (2) heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers, (3) Freight, stock, and material movers, and (4) Light truck drivers.

The Occupational Safety & Health Act (OSHA) has used the term “Fatal Four” to describe the leading causes of construction worker deaths in the U.S. OSHA estimates that eliminating the four top causes of construction site fatalities could save nearly 600 American workers’ lives every year.

The “Fatal Four” construction accidents are listed below. 

1. Falls – Accountable for 35.5% of Construction Worker Deaths

Falls are the leading cause of fatal accidents on construction sites. Some of the most common causes of construction accident falls include:

• Improperly constructed or guarded scaffolding
• Unguarded elevator shafts
• Inclement weather when performing roofing work
• Debris that leads to slips and falls
• Defective ladders
• Unmarked trenches or excavation sites
• Unmarked or unprotected floor holes, wall openings, or ledges

2. Struck By Object – Accountable for 11.1% of Construction Worker Deaths

Falling objects are dangerous hazards on construction sites. Tools, supplies, and heavy objects can gain fatal speeds when falling downward, presenting an enormous risk to anyone standing or working below. Some of the most common causes of accidents resulting from a falling object include:

• Workers inadvertently dropping items
• Malfunctioning cranes, lifts, and hoists
• Faulty construction
• Scaffolding accidents
• Unsecured loads

3. Electrocutions – Accountable for 8.5% of Construction Worker Deaths

On any given construction site, there are a variety of potentially dangerous electrocution hazards. Workers may be at risk of being electrocuted because of:

• Faulty wiring
• Contact with power lines
• Miscommunication on whether equipment is drawing power
• Defective tools and machinery
• Insufficient training

4. Caught In/Between – Accountable for 11.1% of Construction Worker Deaths

These types of accidents involve situations in which a construction worker is caught-in or compressed by equipment or objects. These incidents can also include accidents where workers are crushed, caught, or struck in collapsing material, equipment, or structures. Examples of caught-in and caught-between accidents include;

• Being caught between equipment and a stationary object
• Being caught between two pieces of equipment
• Machine accidents
• Trench and structure collapses

Do I Need a Construction Accident Lawyer?

Construction accidents are typically immune from personal injury lawsuits due to Florida’s workers’ compensation laws. Under the Florida workers’ comp system, an injured worker can be compensated for lost wages and medical bills without having to prove negligence. However, there are exceptions when an injured worker can pursue damages for gross negligence or as part of a third-party claim.

If your injury was caused by another party’s negligence, you may file a personal injury claim to pursue damages. Just as in any personal injury lawsuit, you will need to prove that your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence.

In the tragic event that you lost a loved one in a fatal construction accident, you may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation. In these cases, depending on the details of your loved one’s death, you may be able to seek damages for:

• Medical bills
• Burial and funeral costs
• Loss of future income
• Loss of companionship
• Mental and emotional pain and suffering
• Loss of benefits (such as medical, dental, pension, and 401k)
• Loss of services provided by the deceased (such as childcare, housekeeping, and more)

Construction accident cases can be incredibly complex, and require the knowledge and skill of an experienced lawyer. In your free initial consultation, the attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright will listen to the details of your case, explain your rights, and discuss all of your legal options. There is no obligation to hire our attorney after this complimentary consultation, and if you choose to move forward with our firm, we will handle your case on a contingency-fee-basis, meaning that unless we reach a successful outcome in your case, you don’t owe us a penny in attorney fees.

Contact an Orlando Construction Accident Lawyer Today

Construction workers face numerous risks every day. If you’ve been hurt on the job, you deserve to be justly compensated for your work-related injury and other losses. The seasoned construction accident lawyers at Colling Gilbert Wright have the knowledge, skill, and resources necessary to determine the cause of your injury and hold the responsible parties accountable. We will work tirelessly to fight on your behalf to seek the full and fair compensation you need to get back on track.

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The clock may already be ticking on your case. Don’t wait another day to discuss your rights. Call (407) 712-7300 today to discuss your case for free with an experienced construction accident attorney at Colling Gilbert Wright. Our distinguished firm welcomes clients from across Florida, including Orlando, Tampa, Miami, and other nearby areas.