Exploring Construction Contract Law: What Are the Main Causes of Construction Site Accidents?

Millions of workers across the United States are employed in the construction industry, regularly commuting to construction sites for five or more days a week.

Construction sites that usually seem productive are also prone to accidents. These sites are tough places where people remain exposed to different risks and harsh environments. 

From working high off the ground to dealing with heavy machinery, a variety of things increase the risk of accidents at construction sites. In the hustle and bustle of building dreams into reality, dangers lurk at every corner of construction sites, making it essential for workers and employees to pay close attention to safety. 

Numerous accidents at construction sites can be entirely avoided through the implementation of appropriate safety protocols. To lower the risk of severe workplace injuries, construction workers need to undergo routine safety training and follow safety protocols. In addition, being aware of construction contract law helps them fight for their rights in case of any accident or injury. When accidents occur, despite all precautions, consulting a construction accident lawyer becomes crucial. 

Role of Construction Contract Law in Construction Site Accidents

Let’s examine some of the most common causes of construction accidents, explain why these accidents occur, and determine measures to ensure everyone’s safety.

Heightened Risks: 

Working at heights, whether on scaffolds, ladders, or during structural assembly, presents a significant danger at construction sites. When safety rules and attention are not appropriately followed, accidents increase. 

The temptation to reach great heights can quickly become a nightmare if safety precautions fail, resulting in severe consequences. Employers must improve workers’ protection on elevated structures to prevent construction accidents due to falls. This involves strict adherence to construction contract law, ensuring that all safety measures are implemented and enforced effectively.

As per the reports 2021, 1 out of 5 deaths at work occurred in the construction industry. More than one-third of these deaths were because of slips, trips, and falls. When workers face workplace injuries after falling from a height or due to scaffold-related issues, they have the right to file compensation for their loss and injury. 

Fighting for their rights and getting compensation is challenging; having a professional construction accident lawyer by their side can help them get the desired results. 

Caught-In or Caught-Between

Caught-in or caught-between injuries at construction sites happen when a worker becomes trapped between two pieces of machinery or objects. This also results when clothing or body parts get entangled in the moving components of a machine. These injuries typically have severe consequences, frequently leading to crushing, amputation, strangulation, or fatalities. They rank as one of the most common catastrophic injuries in construction, with a high likelihood of resulting in death.

Struck-By Accidents 

Struck-by injuries occur when a moving object hits a person. Unlike caught-in or caught-between injuries, which involve crushing or pinning, these injuries result from direct impact or contact.

The most common accidents are being struck by a flying, swinging, falling, or rolling object. To avoid such accidents at construction sites, employers must ensure workers wear reflective and bright safety apparel. Also, alarms, backup cameras, and other technology of the vehicles regularly used at these sites are working perfectly fine, as they not only help improve driver visibility but also help them constantly check blind spots while backing vehicles. 

Electrocution

Electrocutions are catastrophic injuries faced by workers at construction sites due to exposure to potentially high amounts of electrical energy. Electricity is essential to power construction sites but can also be hazardous. 

If the wiring is exposed, the connections are faulty, or the electrical equipment is improperly handled, it can cause electrocution, fires, or explosions. These risks are not always visible, so it’s crucial to follow strict safety rules and receive proper training to ensure everyone’s safety. 

Machinery Devastation

The construction site is often filled with the roar of heavy machinery. These large machines streamline operations and bring significant risks, from cranes to bulldozers. 

Insufficient training, equipment malfunctions, or careless operation can turn these vital tools into sources of chaos, leading to accidents such as collisions or equipment failures. 

In such cases, seeking guidance from a construction accident attorney becomes crucial to navigating legal complexities and securing rightful compensation for the victims.

Human Error

Construction work often involves many rules and safety measures to keep everyone safe. However, accidents can still happen because of mistakes made by people. Things like being in a hurry, feeling tired, needing more training, or not paying attention can lead to big problems. 

Whether someone makes a small mistake or there is a bigger problem with how people communicate, the effects of these mistakes can be felt all over a construction site and have serious consequences.

Falling Debris

Construction sites are dynamic environments where materials are constantly in motion. However, all this movement can increase the chances of things falling from above and hurting people working below. These falling things can be tools, equipment, or construction materials, and they can cause serious injuries. Workers must be careful and follow safety rules to protect themselves from these dangers.

Structural Instability

One of the most important things when building structures is ensuring they are stable and won’t collapse. Unfortunately, mistakes are sometimes made in the planning or building process, or unexpected things can weaken the structure. This can be dangerous because walls could collapse, foundations could become unstable, or the whole building could fall apart. 

When this happens, it can be hazardous for the workers working at the construction site because they could get trapped under heavy debris and rubble.

What to Do After a Construction Accident?

After experiencing a construction accident, knowing what steps to take is crucial. Getting help from an experienced lawyer specializing in construction accidents is essential. They can guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. This may include documenting your injuries and filing claims. Knowing your rights and options is essential to get the support you need after an accident on a construction site.

Final Thoughts 

Construction sites, governed by construction contract law, are places where new buildings and structures are built. They are essential for progress and new ideas but can also be dangerous for workers. To make construction sites safer, we must understand what causes accidents and work to prevent them. By doing this, we can ensure that workers stay safe and that progress continues safely and smoothly. 

If you have been injured in a construction site accident, don’t hesitate to contact us at Swartz & Swartz, P.C.

Our experienced construction accident lawyers are here to help you navigate through the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

With a deep understanding of construction law and a track record of success in representing injured workers, we are committed to providing you with the personalized attention and aggressive advocacy you need during this challenging time. 

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in pursuing justice and securing your future.