Crew members and bystanders alike can sustain injuries from falling objects at a construction site. Whether debris starts flying or workers drop tools, struck-by incidents can cause serious injuries that may impact one’s quality of life.
Are you in this situation and wondering about your legal options? Learn more about common construction safety risks and whether you can sue for your injuries.
Common Injuries That Occur at Construction Sites
On-site safety is paramount for construction workers and those within the area. A project can pose several overhead hazards, as objects may fall from scaffolding, cranes, and other high-rise areas. Even a small tool or piece of debris could cause serious harm to others below if it were to fall.
Victims may sustain a wide range of injuries, depending on the situation. Common injuries include:
- Lacerations
- Bruises
- Bone fractures
- Head trauma
Some injuries may have lengthy recovery times or lead to permanent disability. Others can even be fatal.
On-site contractors and crew members must prioritize safety protocols to minimize overhead hazards. Workers should practice tool tethering to secure equipment to scaffolds and other surfaces. They can also deploy safety nets below them to catch any materials that may fall.
The use of hard hats, safety glasses, and other personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for keeping workers safe on the job.
Who Can Sue for Injuries Sustained at a Construction Site?
“I sustained a falling object injury at a construction site. Can I sue for damages?” If you ask a personal injury lawyer, they may tell you it depends.
Pursuing compensation can differ for construction workers and bystanders. Negligence also plays a key role in assessing your legal options.
Injured construction workers may file for workers’ compensation benefits regardless of fault. Suppose a crew member wasn’t wearing a hard hat despite it being the company’s protocol. They could be at fault for their injury, but under workers’ compensation laws, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and medical expenses.
Now, suppose a crew member is hurt because the scaffolding suddenly collapses. Defective products could make the manufacturer liable. In this case, the worker might have grounds to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer.
Bystanders who are hurt in struck-by accidents may be able to sue negligent parties, such as the property owner, construction company, or product manufacturer.
What To Expect When You Take Legal Action
Suing an individual or organization for your injuries can seem overwhelming. Meet with a personal injury lawyer experienced in handling construction accident claims. They’ll review the evidence in your case, calculate your damages, and negotiate with insurance providers in an effort to reach a settlement.
The process could take several months, depending on the investigation and negotiation phase. If you’re unable to agree to a settlement, the case may go to trial for a jury to decide the outcome. It may be beneficial for you to accept a settlement, as litigation can prolong the timeline and may not yield a favorable financial outcome.
Consult Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers About Your Case
Injuries caused by falling objects at construction sites are not all that uncommon. If you’re a victim and wondering about your legal options, turn to Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers. We guide clients through the process of filing a personal injury claim, negotiate settlements, and represent them at trial, if necessary.
Contact our firm today to review your case with a legal professional and gain insight into how to proceed. Call (855) 521-4406 or submit our online request form to schedule a consultation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ):
Q: What are common injuries from falling objects at construction sites?
A: Common injuries include lacerations, bruises, bone fractures, and head trauma, which can range from minor to fatal.
Q: Can I sue for a falling object injury if I’m a construction worker?
A: Construction workers may be eligible for workers’ compensation regardless of fault, or they may have grounds to sue liable parties like manufacturers for defective products.
Q: Can a bystander sue for a falling object injury at a construction site?
A: Yes, bystanders injured by falling objects may be able to sue negligent parties such as the property owner, construction company, or product manufacturer.
