What are the most common construction accidents?

In the last few years, as the economy has recovered from the 2008 crash, the construction industry boomed.

Commercial and residential projects began employing millions of construction workers. And while it is great for the economy, it’s also dangerous. Everyday workers put themselves at risk to build these projects.  While some construction accidents were due to unfortunate luck, many were due to someone’s negligence.

What are the most common types of construction accidents that occur in commercial and residential projects?

1. Machinery Accidents

Most construction sites have a few types of machinery. Machine operators are some of the most dangerous positions. They risk life and serious injury each day. One missed safe guard and an operator could suffer a debilitating injury.

2. Slip and Falls

Most construction sites are tricky to navigate. Construction workers have to climb ladders, walk across narrow scaffolding, and walk through pipes and other odd pieces of a project. Oftentimes, they have equipment on them or they or near them, adding to the chaos. Slip, trips and falls, are unfortunate realities because, while workers try to remain vigilant and careful when maneuvering through a construction site, accidents happen.

3. Forklift Injuries

Forklifts are used frequently on construction sites. Forklifts can drop heavy parts and injury workers. Forklift operators must be trained in safety standards, but they aren’t always followed. Sometimes operators cut corners. But even if they don’t, even if they follow all the safety guidelines, an accident can still occur.

4. Fires

Many construction sites present a potential fire risk. One example of a heavy fire risk would be the construction of the pipes in an oil refinery. The gas pipes are typically welded and even when all the safety guidelines are followed, an accident can still occur and a fire and explosion can still ignite.

5. Demolition and Collapses

Demolishing or taking down a building can be as dangerous, if not more so than construction of a new project. If proper safety practices are not followed, construction workers may be at risk for suffering injuries when something goes wrong and collapses. Any error in planning, lack of protection, or misuse of equipment could be catastrophic.

What happens to workers who have suffered an injury due to one of these accidents?

If a construction worker’s injury was a result of another party’s negligence, they may be entitled to compensation. Fortunately, there are avenues for construction workers to pursue to obtain compensation. They can consult with an attorney to find out what compensation they may be entitled to. They don’t have to suffer from the physical pain AND the medical expenses.

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