Construction work is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2019 findings, about one in five worker deaths were in construction. Sometimes, a construction accident occurs at the fault of unsafe working conditions and/or the negligence of another party. In these cases, the victims have the right to pursue legal action.
What are the most common construction accidents?
Referred to as the “Fatal Four,” there are several types of construction accidents that result in fatalities the most. They are:
- Falls
- Being struck by a falling, moving, or swinging object
- Electrocutions
- Being caught, compressed, or crushed by equipment or structure
Common non-fatal construction accidents include falling object accidents, slip and fall or trip and fall accidents, accidents involving ladders or scaffolding, among others.
What is OSHA?
When it comes to workplace safety, you’ve probably heard of the term OSHA. OSHA refers to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department of Labor. With the objective of protecting workers from unsafe conditions in all industries, OSHA implements and forces rules and regulations for workplace health and safety. Many construction accidents involve some kind of OSHA violation.
What are some common OSHA violations?
Most OSHA violations involve either failing to provide adequate protective gear, not providing adequate instructions, or a lack of communication.
According to OSHA, the most frequent violations are:
- Fall Protection, construction
- Hazard Communication Standard, general industry
- Respiratory Protection, general industry
- Scaffolding, general requirements, construction
- Ladders, construction
- Control of Hazardous Energy (lockout/tagout), general industry
- Powered Industrial Trucks, general industry
- Fall Protection–Training Requirements
- Eye and Face Protection
- Machinery and Machine Guarding, general requirements
What should I do after a construction accident?
First & foremost, seek medical attention immediately. If it is safe for you to do so, collect as much evidence of the accident as you can. This includes taking photographs or videos of your injuries and the scene, gathering the information of witnesses, among others.
Depending on the circumstances, you may need to file a report, as well. Ultimately, though, it is highly recommended that you consult with an attorney with expertise in dealing with construction accidents. Once hearing the unique circumstances of your situation, they will be able to give you legal advice on the best course of action to take.
Our team of legal specialists at Gosanko, O’Halloran, Lepore PLLC has extensive experience in Seattle and Washington law and will fight for your rights and best interests after you have suffered in a construction accident. ve suffered in a construction accident.
Call our firm today at 206-275-0700 in order to schedule a free legal consultation regarding your situation.
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