Common Types of Construction Accidents
Construction sites present numerous hazards that can cause serious injuries:
- Falls from Heights: Scaffolding collapses, ladder accidents, roof falls, and unprotected edges account for the largest percentage of construction fatalities
- Struck-By Accidents: Workers hit by falling objects, swinging equipment, or vehicles
- Electrocution: Contact with power lines, improper wiring, or defective equipment
- Caught-In/Between: Workers caught in machinery, trenches, or between heavy equipment
- Equipment Failures: Crane collapses, defective tools, and malfunctioning safety equipment
Workers' Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims
Construction workers often have multiple avenues for compensation:
Workers' Compensation: Provides medical expenses, partial wage replacement (typically 2/3 of average weekly wage), and disability benefits regardless of fault. However, it limits your ability to sue your employer directly.
Third-Party Lawsuits: If someone other than your employer caused or contributed to your accident, you may sue for full damages including:
- Complete lost wages (past and future)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages in egregious cases
Who Can You Sue After a Construction Accident?
Potential third-party defendants in construction accident cases include:
- General Contractors: May be liable for overall site safety
- Subcontractors: Other contractors whose negligence caused your injury
- Property Owners: May be responsible for hazardous conditions
- Equipment Manufacturers: Product liability claims for defective machinery
- Architects/Engineers: If design defects contributed to the accident
- Equipment Rental Companies: For inadequate maintenance or defective rentals
OSHA Violations as Evidence
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) sets safety standards for construction sites. When employers or contractors violate these regulations, it can serve as powerful evidence of negligence:
- Failure to provide fall protection
- Inadequate scaffolding requirements
- Lack of proper training
- Missing safety equipment
- Improper trenching procedures
OSHA citations can significantly strengthen your case by establishing that the defendant violated established safety standards.
Typical Settlement Values
Construction accident settlements vary widely based on injury severity, liability factors, and available insurance:
- Minor injuries: $50,000 - $200,000
- Serious fractures: $200,000 - $750,000
- Permanent disability: $500,000 - $5,000,000+
- Traumatic brain injury: $1,000,000 - $10,000,000+
- Wrongful death: $1,000,000 - $15,000,000+
Multiple liable parties and clear OSHA violations can substantially increase these values.