Workplace injuries are an unfortunately common occurrence in the United States. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics there were a total of 5,190 fatal work injuries in 2016 alone. Some workplaces have more risks than others and unfortunately construction sites are one of the worst.
Injuries resulting on a construction site can mean lost time at work, lost wages, and sometimes loss of income for life. It’s not uncommon for the types of injuries sustained on construction sites to be quite serious. Falls, faulty equipment, back injuries, and confined space accidents can all mean serious consequences for the victim.
Here are three facts about construction site injuries you may not know:
Injuries don’t only happen to the construction workers
Construction sites’ come with a variety of hazards, including heavy machinery, heights, and roadwork. This means that serious accidents can happen in multiple different areas and to different people. Because of the public nature of construction sites, there is a chance that the people injured on these sites aren’t construction workers at all. Falling materials, improperly marked hazards, or debris in the road can all contribute to a bystander being hurt. While construction workers may be covered in case of injury by workers’ compensation, this doesn’t apply to members of the public. Instead, bystanders will need to seek legal help after a construction injury to receive compensation from the company responsible.
Over 20% of the U.S. highway system is under construction in peak season
If you were thinking that summer meant roadwork season, you wouldn’t be far off! In fact, there are over 3000 active construction sites on U.S. Highways during the peak season. At each one of these construction sites are men and women working. Unfortunately, highway construction sites can also be the source of many preventable accidents. Common causes of highway construction accidents can be traced back to confusing work zones, inadequate warning about lane changes, absence of warning signs, or equipment problems. Not only is this a risk for those driving past the sites, but it is also a huge risk for those working on the sites.
The most common injuries on construction sites are falls and back injuries
Construction workers are more likely to suffer falls and back injuries on the job. This can result from falling from scaffolding or buildings, or from picking up heavy loads. Back injuries may sound simple, but they can cause long-term issues and take people off the job for months at a time. Back injuries most often occur when someone is performing an activity they don’t often do or when they attempt to lift something that proves to be heavier than it looks. This can cause pulling of the ligaments and muscles and leave the sufferer unable to do their job. Back injuries from lifting or falling can cle spcause musasms, stiffness and pain.
If you’ve been injured on the job or have been injured as a result of a construction company’s negligent behavior, it’s important to contact legal representatives to see if you’re eligible for compensation.
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