
Unfortunately, around 20{574a0e6bc567ebf17884a4b3c383cef25f263cf3bcfb9a5ad812e15586b7401f} of all fatalities that are work-related in the US are related to some sort of construction site. This is definitely not a good statistic and the truth is that most workers do not even know what the most common dangers are when they work on construction sites. If you do not want to see injury lawyers in Scranton PA because of serious injuries, you might want to know of the very common construction accidents that happen right now.
The most common construction site accidents are:
- Hoist or crane accidents – These machines are very important for construction sites. However, operator errors, lack of training, and several other factors can so easily lead to very serious accidents.
- Falls – This includes ladder accidents, scaffolding accidents, roofing accidents, and basically all possible falls from heights. As imagined, the result can be quite tragic.
- Repetitive stress injuries – Many construction jobs include repetitive movements. These lead to repetitive stress injuries noticed in the wrists, joints, ankles, and back.
- Slip and falls – This can lead to injuries like sprains and broken bones.
- Explosions, fires, and gas leaks – All of these can turn deadly and tend to be sudden. As an example, carbon monoxide is very dangerous when it appears in confined spaces.
- Forklift accidents – If operators are not attentive and properly trained, any forklift can lead to serious construction site accidents.
- Elevator shaft accidents – A construction worker does risk falling down elevator shafts. This happens when there are not good safety precautions put in place.
- Trench accidents – Trench accidents like collapses would be devastating. You might end up being trapped and not being able to get out without a very fast intervention from safety personnel.
- Electrocutions – Overhead electrical wires, lighting, and electrical equipment all end up creating electrocution risks for construction workers.
- Struck-by accidents – On a construction site, you often see motor vehicles. Just like on the road, this means the construction worker can be struck. This can also happen when the vehicle is just machinery utilized on the site.
- Machinery accidents – Speaking about machinery, numerous heavy machines are used when completing construction projects. They are useful but they are a risk as they might malfunction or might lead to injuries because of the negligence of an operator.
- Exposure to toxins or dangerous chemicals – If you breathe in some toxins or chemicals, you can end up with very serious respiratory illnesses.
- Caught-between accidents – A person or even just a limb can end up caught by equipment or crushed due to debris appearing in construction accidents.
Every single one of the accidents mentioned can lead to some serious injuries and even fatalities. In the unwanted event in which you were hurt or a family member was killed, the best thing you can do is to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Find one that is experienced with work-related accidents so that your rights are protected and you get the financial compensation you deserve.