A fall is frequently said to be the most common type of accident on construction sites. There is statistical data from OSHA that indicates that falls contribute to almost one-third of all construction fatalities (351 out of 1,008). Even with safety principles implemented and the right safety apparatus worn, construction workers will always be exposed to falling hazards because of their profession, which is characterized by working at heights and in unstable working environments.
Construction sites can be unsafe workplaces due to the absence of possible fall-restraining factors. In most cases, those injured in such disasters have to endure expenses and pain associated with acute medical attention and recuperation. In such scenarios, victims should talk to a construction accident attorney who can understand all the legal issues and protect them.
Common Causes of Falls at Construction Sites
Several issues have been identified by various institutions, which attribute to the high rate of falls in the construction industry. Some of these include:
Absence of adequate fall protection: According to the CDC, in 2022, falls from elevation represented as much as 81% of all fatal and 20% of all nonfatal slips, trips, and falls for all industry workers.
Improper use of equipment: Working on a ladder and scaffolding without efficient securing devices or without following the correct use of equipment is likely to lead to falls. WHO reports that falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide. Age is one of the key risk factors for falls, as reported. 20–30% of older people who fall in the United States suffer moderate to severe injuries.
Human error: Fatigue, lack of training, and distractions can lead to mistakes that result in falls. According to a journal, human error is the main cause of 80%-90% of all accidents.
The Impact of Fall-Related Injuries
The consequences of falls when working at construction sites can be more harmful than one can imagine, owing to the fact that such falls can lead to severe injuries or even loss of life. The most severe injuries are described as follows:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): One of the most common causes of TBIs in construction workers is falling. TBIs can result in long-term cognitive impairments and physical disabilities.
Spinal cord injuries: Falls can lead to spinal cord injuries and also often result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries are not only life-altering but also require ongoing medical care, which can be financially draining.
Fractures and broken bones: In most falls, many people get fractures of arm, leg, or breaking their ribs. These injuries can take months to heal and may require surgery and rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries: Also quite common are organ injuries and internal bleedings. This is due to a fall especially from above a certain height.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Victims
If an employee is a sufferer of a fall while working on the construction site, they have to be compensated for the injuries sustained at the scene. This compensation is crucial in covering the costs associated with the accident, including:
Medical expenses: Immediate and long-term medical care, including surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation, can be covered.
Lost wages: Compensation for time away from work due to injury is essential, especially if the injury results in long-term disability.
Pain and suffering: Victims are entitled to compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Rehabilitation costs: Recovery often requires physical therapy and occupational therapy, which can be covered through compensation.
To sum it all up, falls at a construction site represent a serious threat that may result in serious or fatal injuries. Once you are a victim, it is very important to know your legal options and seek professional legal help in dealing with any such aftermath. To achieve the level of compensation that victims and their families deserve in relation to the injuries and losses suffered, the action of a competent attorney is vital.
<p>The post Falls at Construction Sites: An Accident That Can Be Fatal first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>
