Fatal Construction Accidents

Orlando, Florida

Construction work is one of the most common, yet dangerous, occupations in the United States and employees millions of men and women. There are numerous types of construction jobs; some are more dangerous than others, but all involve increased risk over most other occupations. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, construction jobs are the most hazardous occupations and lead in workplace fatalities. Despite constantly improving safety measures, fatal construction accidents still occur on a regular basis.

Construction Accident Statistics

Construction companies and federal regulators are constantly stressing occupational safety in an attempt to minimize work place fatalities. Safety courses are required for most companies that employ 20 or more workers in construction jobs. Many small contractors however employ fewer than 20 employees and may not provide adequate safety training.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS:

• Construction workers had the highest fatality rate of all workplace fatalities
• Construction fatalities decreased by 20 percent since 2007
• Specialty trade contractors suffered the most fatalities by sub class
• Approximately 1000 construction fatalities occur each year

Common Construction Accidents

Construction laborers come in contact with all types of environmental, hazardous material, and dangerous equipment imaginable. At any moment, if you are not constantly considering safety, you could be putting a co-worker or yourself in grave danger. Some of the most common construction accidents include:

• Falls from a ladder or other height
• Explosions
• Electrocution
• Vehicle accident
• Heavy equipment accident
• Exposure to hazardous material

Determining Liability

Employers are required to provide as safe a work environment as possible to their employees under premises law. Safety training is stressed by most construction companies, but fatal accidents are still all too common. High turn over and inadequately trained personnel account for many accidents.

If the company does not provide a safe environment and adequate training, they may be held liable in a wrongful death lawsuit in the event of a fatal construction accident. In the event of equipment failure, manufacturer defect or design flaw, there may be other parties that are liable for damages as well.

Although no one can bring your loved one back, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for medical and funeral expenses and other damages. If you have lost a loved one in a fatal construction accident in or around Orlando, please contact a Florida wrongful death lawyer at Colling Gilbert Wright & Carter to schedule an initial consultation. We will work hard to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve for your loss.