Common Cause of Construction-Related Injuries
It’s common knowledge that working in residential or commercial construction is one of the most dangerous occupations in the country. Here are some of the most common causes of constructionsite injuries:
- Falling objects — Whether it’s a high rise or a single-family home, there’s always a risk of injury from falling tools, equipment, building materials or refuse.
- Falls from heights — These types of injuries can happen in a variety of ways. A contractor or subcontractor may fail to put proper guardrails on upper levels or may leave sections uncovered without protective barriers. Ladders or scaffolding may be incorrectly assembled or may be defective. Construction elevators or lifts may not have appropriate safety mechanisms. Workers may be pushed to perform dangerous jobs without harnesses or other requisite safety devices.
- Dangerous or defective products — Construction projects involve the use of power tools, heavy equipment and other types of machinery. If these items are not properly designed, are used in ways not intended by the manufacturer or are poorly made, construction workers can be at risk of serious injury.
- Negligent hiring, training or supervision of employees — Often, in the rush to complete projects, contractors hire workers without fully investigating or confirming their qualifications. As a result, they can hire people without the necessary skills to operate dangerous construction equipment. It’s not unusual, either, for a contractor to allow workers to perform their job without direct supervision and without any concern for safety measures.
- Construction-site motor vehicle accidents — Construction sites are often a beehive of activity, with trucks and other vehicles moving in and out. Because there are seldom any designated roads, let alone traffic signs or signals, it’s not unusual for collisions to occur.
Contact Gregg A. Wisotsky, Esq., Partner, Javerbaum Wurgaft Hicks Kahn Wikstrom & Sinins, PC.
We offer a free phone consultation to every prospective client. For a complimentary evaluation of your case, contact our office online or call us at 973-898-0161. We will come to your home or the hospital to meet with you, if necessary. All major credit cards are accepted.