Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in Texas, resulting in thousands of workplace fatalities and injuries every year. What’s more, Texas doesn’t require employers to carry workers’ compensation, so if you’re injured at work, you rightfully might be confused about your legal options for pursuing recovery. A San Antonio construction accident attorney from George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help you navigate this.
Employers, general contractors, subcontractors, or other parties may be responsible for paying for the damages construction accidents cause. Some of the most common construction accidents in Texas include:
Falls
According to the Texas Department of Insurance, falls were the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry in 2021, responsible for 37% of the fatalities that year. Workers can fall from roofs, ladders, or other heights or on the same level. OSHA standards require employers to provide workers with fall protection equipment.
A major source of workplace falls for construction workers is scaffolding. These falls occur due to faulty assembly, missing guardrails, and other defects.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Another leading cause of workplace injuries is motor vehicle accidents. Careless motorists may not slow down on roadside construction sites. Accidents can occur when workers do not safely operate cranes, forklifts, bulldozers, and other construction equipment.
Struck By Objects
8% of fatal accidents in the construction field in 2021 were due to workers being struck by objects that were swinging, falling, or misplaced. Rig failures, loose materials, or equipment malfunctions can cause serious injuries.
Electrocutions
Electrocution was responsible for 8% of construction worker deaths in 2021. Workers can suffer these serious injuries when there is exposed wiring on the job site, wet conditions near electrical outlets, or other electrical hazards.
Crush Injuries
Another 5% of workplace fatalities in the construction industry in 2021 were due to being caught in or between machines, devices, or tools. Collapsing structures can also cause these injuries. These accidents occur when job sites do not properly enact and follow control measures.
Lift Accidents
Lifts such as cherry pickers and scissor lifts can be dangerous in construction accidents. Accidents can occur due to improper use, overloading, or mechanical failure, leading to serious crush injuries, fractures, and fatalities.
Burns
Burns can occur when workers come in contact with hot machinery, electrical wiring, or chemicals. Employers may fail to provide proper protective gear or implement safeguards to prevent these accidents.
Equipment Injuries
Workers can have accidents with jackhammers, power saws, and heavy machinery. These accidents often happen when workers are not adequately trained to handle these tools safely.
Trench Cave-Ins
Trenches are often necessary on construction sites, but they can collapse and bury people alive.
Chemical Exposure Incidents
Construction workers may be exposed to dangerous substances and chemicals, including solvents, adhesives, lead, and asbestos. If others do not properly handle these hazardous materials, chemical burns and respiratory problems can result.
Recovering After Construction-Related Injuries
If you were injured in a construction accident in Texas, George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help. We can explain your legal rights and help you pursue the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us today to get started on your path to recovery.