Many Companies May be Involved in Construction Site Operation and Management
When someone sustains injuries on a construction site, many different entities may be held liable because of the various aspects of involvement in the project. Determining who may be at fault can become complicated depending on the size of the worksite and the number of contractors and subcontractors. Even companies not directly working on the site may be a party to an injury.
At Hagelgans & Veronis, we represent individuals who have incurred severe injuries resulting from construction site accidents throughout Central Pennsylvania. Our experienced litigators have secured over $300 million in compensation for our clients and will work with you to obtain the largest possible. If you were injured in a construction site accident, contact our office at (717) 295-7009 to schedule a free consultation.
What Types of Accidents Commonly Occur?
By their very nature, construction sites are dangerous work environments. Although a construction site owner may take precautions to maximize the safety of everyone working there, many different mishaps can still occur. Heavy machinery, toxic chemicals, explosions, missing safety equipment and more can all contribute to accidents, some of which can be severe or even deadly.
Common construction site accidents can include:
- Falls off ladders, scaffolding, various types of lifts, etc.
- Being struck by materials, machinery or vehicles
- Electrocution
- Getting stuck between moving equipment, being buried in a trench or building collapse
- Crane accidents
Typical Construction Site Injuries
Construction accidents can run the gamut from minor to severe, with many resulting in death. Many require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Typical construction site injuries are:
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and back
- Spinal cord, including paralysis
- Burns
- Fractures
- Vision loss or removal of an eye
- Hearing loss
- Sprains, strains, and other damage to soft tissue
- Nerve issues
- Amputations
- Internal organs
Doesn't Workers' Compensation Pay for Construction Accidents?
Generally, workers injured on a construction site cannot sue for their injuries as workers' compensation is supposed to cover their claims. Workers' compensation is a no-fault system; you do not need to prove negligence to obtain benefits. However, workers' compensation is not your only option, especially if the workers' compensation insurance company denies benefits or injuries are particularly severe.
Determining Liability
The property owner and the management company responsible for the overall operation of the site are almost always liable, as these entities can be found negligent for not providing a safe work environment. Multiple businesses may be at fault depending on the circumstances of the accident. Although your employer may not be liable, contractors and subcontractors may be liable if an accident occurs under their authority.
Off-site companies like architects and engineers may be liable if the design and specifications are deficient. Similarly, manufacturers of materials, tools and equipment have a responsibility to ensure that the products work safely when used in the intended manner. If a product malfunctions and hurts someone, the victim has the right to press a lawsuit.
Potential Damages for Construction Injuries
For catastrophic injuries or accidents that result in death, plaintiffs can pursue recovery for various types of damages.
Whether you file a suit on behalf of yourself or a loved one who has died, you may attempt to recover damages for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Out-of-pocket medical expenses, including aids, home-based medical care, home modifications, etc.
- Past and future lost income
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Temporary or permanent disability
- Disfigurement and scarring
Were You Severely Injured in a Construction Accident?
Workers' compensation frequently won't provide sufficient compensation for your injuries, especially if one or more companies were negligent on the construction site. If you sustained significant injuries, an experienced injury lawyer at Hagelgans & Veronis may be able to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (717) 295-7009 to schedule your free case evaluation.
