Most Common Types of Construction Accidents
Construction accidents are among the most common causes of serious workplace injuries in Pennsylvania. Workers’ compensation benefits may be available to construction workers injured in falls, equipment accidents, fires, explosions, demolition incidents, and other job-related accidents.
At Stern & Cohen, our attorneys regularly represent injured construction workers throughout Pennsylvania. Understanding the most common types of construction accidents can help workers recognize risks and understand their rights after a workplace injury.
Falls From Heights
Falls remain the leading cause of fatal construction accidents.
Construction workers often perform duties on:
- Ladders
- Scaffolding
- Roofs
- Elevated platforms
- Structural steel
A fall from even a relatively short height can cause severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
Demolition Accidents
Demolition work presents unique dangers due to unstable structures, falling materials, and hidden hazards.
Common demolition accidents include:
- Building collapses
- Falling debris
- Ceiling collapses
- Structural failures
- Electrical accidents
When proper safety procedures are not followed, demolition accidents can result in catastrophic injuries.
Fires and Explosions
Construction sites frequently contain combustible materials, fuel sources, electrical systems, and welding operations that increase the risk of fires and explosions.
Common causes include:
- Electrical failures
- Improper storage of flammable materials
- Equipment malfunctions
- Welding accidents
- Failure to follow safety procedures
Burn injuries often require extensive medical treatment and may result in permanent scarring or disfigurement.
Crane Accidents
Cranes are critical pieces of equipment on many construction projects, but they can also create significant hazards.
Common crane accidents involve:
- Snapped cables
- Falling loads
- Crane collapses
- Equipment malfunctions
- Improper operation
These accidents often result in serious injuries to both operators and nearby workers.
Forklift Accidents
Forklifts are commonly used to move materials throughout construction sites.
Common causes of forklift accidents include:
- Operator error
- Overloaded equipment
- Poor visibility
- Uneven terrain
- Mechanical failures
Forklift accidents can cause crush injuries, fractures, head injuries, and other serious harm.
Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents
Construction sites often contain numerous hazards that can lead to slips, trips, and falls.
Common causes include:
- Wet surfaces
- Loose materials
- Uneven walking areas
- Poor lighting
- Debris
- Extension cords and hoses
While some falls may seem minor initially, they can lead to significant injuries and time away from work.
Struck-By Accidents
Being struck by an object is one of OSHA’s “Fatal Four” construction hazards.
These accidents commonly involve:
- Falling tools
- Building materials
- Moving equipment
- Vehicles
- Swinging loads
Struck-by accidents can result in traumatic brain injuries, fractures, and fatal injuries.
Electrocution Accidents
Construction workers frequently work around temporary electrical systems, overhead power lines, and energized equipment.
Electrical accidents may result in:
- Severe burns
- Cardiac injuries
- Nerve damage
- Electrocution fatalities
Even non-fatal electrical injuries can have long-term consequences.
What Benefits Are Available After a Construction Accident?
Injured construction workers may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, including:
- Medical treatment
- Wage-loss benefits
- Specific loss benefits
- Scarring and disfigurement benefits
- Death benefits for surviving family members
These benefits may be available regardless of who caused the accident.
Talk to a Pennsylvania Construction Accident Lawyer
Construction accident claims often involve serious injuries, disputes regarding medical treatment, overtime wage calculations, and attempts by insurance companies to return workers to unsuitable jobs.
At Stern & Cohen, we have extensive experience representing injured construction workers throughout Pennsylvania. We fight to ensure our clients receive the medical treatment and workers’ compensation benefits they deserve.
If you were injured in a construction accident, contact Stern & Cohen today for a free consultation.
FAQs
Can construction workers receive workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Most construction workers injured while performing job-related duties are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, regardless of who caused the accident.
What should I do after a construction accident?
Report the injury to your employer, seek medical treatment immediately, document the accident if possible, and consider speaking with a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney.
Are ladder accidents covered by workers’ compensation?
Yes. Injuries sustained in ladder falls while performing work duties are generally covered under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law.
Can I receive workers’ compensation if faulty equipment caused my injury?
Yes. Workers’ compensation benefits are generally available regardless of whether the accident was caused by defective equipment, employer negligence, or another workplace hazard.
What injuries are common in construction accidents?
Common construction injuries include back injuries, neck injuries, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, burn injuries, crush injuries, spinal cord injuries, and shoulder injuries.