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Construction is a vital industry in Connecticut. Thanks to its dedicated workers, state residents and visitors enjoy high-quality infrastructure and properties. But construction work can also be dangerous. By understanding the most common types of construction site accidents in Connecticut, workers can potentially stay safer.
Knowing common accident categories and statistics can provide perspective to injury victims, showing they aren’t alone. This realization might persuade a victim to explore their rights by contacting a Connecticut personal injury lawyer with knowledge of construction accident laws. Doing so can result in potential compensation and may even result in worksite safety improvements, which can reduce the chance of others suffering a similar fate.
Construction sites feature a variety of hazards. These come from a combination of the unique environment, powerful machinery, and demanding work conditions. While accidents come in many forms, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has created a group of the most common hazards they dub “The Focus Four Hazards.” This group includes falls, caught-in or -between, struck by, and electrocution.
OSHA’s Focus Four Hazards are more common because their risk factors are present on nearly every worksite. Whether residential, commercial, civil, or other, nearly any construction work environment poses dangers related to these categories.
These hazards make up a major portion of workplace risks for construction sites. Anyone impacted by an accident from these categories may want to contact a Connecticut construction accident attorney to see if they have legal options.
While the most common types of construction site accidents in Connecticut fall into four categories, there are many other ways a worker can be injured in these environments. Consider the risk of fire, heat, and smoke inhalation, as well as similar risks from chemical residue and excess dust. All of these can cause skin irritation, eye problems, and breathing issues.
There’s also the risk of explosions, accidental or intentional, including both their impact and flying debris. Loud machinery can lead to ear strain over long periods, just as repetitive movements can cause muscle strain and mobility issues. Even basic tools and fixtures can cause bruises, lacerations, and broken bones, along with infections and other complications that follow.
The construction industry is foundational to Connecticut’s economy. Just this year, Governor Ned Lamont announced a new budget proposal that included repairs and upgrades to the state’s highways, bridges, and rail lines. Coupled with the state’s thriving residential and commercial sectors, the field is a solid source for jobs and economic growth. However, accident rates may also be increasing.
From 2021 to 2022, there was a 47% increase in worksite fatalities, with Connecticut’s numbers near or above national averages in most categories. While there was a 2.9% decline in 2023, any accident can be catastrophic in nature. Even non-fatal incidents can result in life changes for the affected and their family.
No worker should have their dedication to the job, or someone else’s oversight, lead to health problems. When you hire a construction accident lawyer, they can help protect your right to a safe work environment.
The most common construction site accidents include falls, stuck-in and -between, struck by, and electrocution. There are many other types of accidents, including fire and chemical burns, smoke and residue exposure, explosions and debris, repetitive loud noises, repetitive strain, injuries from tools and fixtures, and vehicle collisions. Even a seemingly small accident could be grounds for a construction accident claim.
One or more parties may be held responsible after a construction site accident. Worksite managers, safety authorities, property owners, insurers, and equipment manufacturers may all be held responsible based on the nature of the accident. A Connecticut construction accident attorney can help you determine who is responsible in your specific case.
All construction accidents could be considered serious, since workers have a right to a safe work environment. Medical examination by qualified professionals is recommended to fully assess an injury. Untreated injuries may escalate, with issues like increasing rates of pain and mobility problems, or resulting complications like infections or breathing issues.
The compensation an accident victim receives after a construction site injury can depend on several factors. These include the severity of the damage, medical bills, pain and suffering, life changes, and lost wages. Every case is different and dependent on the legal system’s discretion, especially since some losses are harder to quantify economically.
At Weber & Rubano, we’re passionate about serving Connecticut, including the brave construction workers who build our state. We’ve been helping the community for over 70 years, standing up for injury victims with a fierce, ethical dedication. Combined with our deep knowledge of construction accident laws, we’re a formidable force that can stand by construction injury victims during their pursuit of justice.
Not only do we know about the most common types of construction site accidents in Connecticut and the legal precedents for each, but we also have a “No Win No Fee” policy. Even if your injury has resulted in debt from medical bills or lost wages, you can reach out to us 24/7 for legal guidance that may result in compensation. Contact us today to get started.