Construction sites are inherently dangerous places. Construction workers who handle heavy machinery, tools, and vehicles often work at elevated heights or near electricity and other hazards. When accidents happen, the consequences can be tragic.
While construction workers only make up about six percent of the U.S. workforce, labor statistics show they account for almost 20 percent of all employee deaths. Despite advancements in safety equipment, technology, and employee training, workplace accidents still cause significant and life-altering injuries every day.
At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we put people first. If you were hurt or lost a family member in a construction accident in Albany, our Georgia workers’ compensation lawyers can discuss your rights to benefits in a free consultation. Call or contact us today.
Fatal Construction Accident Statistics
Unfortunately, workplace fatalities plague the construction industry. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one out of every five workplace fatalities is a construction worker.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of work-related deaths in construction. At least one in three construction fatalities can be attributed to a significant fall. Many construction jobs involve working at great heights on roofs, scaffolds, ladders, and other equipment.
The Four Common Causes of Construction Accidents
OSHA compiled a list of the four leading causes of workplace fatalities. The Fatal Four include:
- Falls
- Being hit by an object
- Electrocutions
- Being caught in or in-between objects or machinery
In Georgia, employees who suffer injuries in construction accidents may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Family members of a deceased worker could also be entitled to death benefits through the workers’ comp system. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help prepare your claim for benefits if you or a family member was hurt.
What to Do After a Construction Accident
Seek medical help as soon as possible after a work injury. The sooner you can get treatment, the better your prognosis. Then follow these steps:
- Report the accident: Georgia requires employees to report their workplace injury to their employers within 30 days of the incident, but you should do it as soon as possible. Keep a copy for your records.
- Gather evidence: Document the scene as best you can. Take photos of the construction site and your injuries. You may also want to jot down notes about how the accident happened and get the names of any witnesses. Keep any emails or records you had with your employer about the accident.
- Follow all medical advice: Medical documentation is vital to workers’ compensation claims. Do not deviate from your doctor’s treatment plan and keep all follow-up appointments.
- Contact a workers’ compensation attorney – Filing a workers’ compensation claim means filling out lots of paperwork and providing records to your employer’s insurance company. This process can be tedious, especially if you are recovering from a serious injury or grieving the loss of someone close to you. An attorney can help build a strong claim and negotiate for the money you deserve.
Safety Tips Around a Construction Site
Keep these construction safety tips in mind if you work on or near a site:
- Wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear at all times.
- Use proper lifting techniques when hauling heavy items.
- Keep work areas clean.
- Report broken or defective equipment immediately.
- Secure ladders and scaffolding carefully.
- Stay updated on safety training.
- Follow all posted signs and warnings.
- Communicate clearly with your team and manager.
If you or a loved one suffered an injury on a construction site, reach out to the Albany workers’ compensation attorneys at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. for a free consultation. Call or contact us now.
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