?The construction industry is one of the largest industries in the United States. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous. Construction workers experience workplace accidents and injuries much more often than employees in other fields, and even more-so in Texas. In fact, Texas has the highest work-related fatality rate in the nation.
Inadequate Worksite Safety Procedures Lead to Serious Injuries
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration lists four common construction-related fatalities: falls, electrocutions, being injured by heavy equipment, and being caught between objects. Lack of proper construction management can quickly lead to injuries, and in some cases they can become fatal.
Incidents involving scaffolds or staging frequently occur when planting or support structures give way. In October 2015, a scaffold collapsed in Houston, Texas near Minute Maid Park. Six people were seriously injured and received hospital attention. Accidents such as these are clearly hazardous to workers. Howe’ver, they put others in danger as well, including bystanders in the area.
With improvements and better oversight of workplace safety regulations, accidents such as this could be avoided. Construction companies can prevent these accidents with improved worksite precautions and employee training resources. But unfortunately, these organizations sometimes ignore safety risks until they are faced with clear consequences.
Worker’s Compensation May Not Be Enough
For workplace injuries, you are entitled to compensation regardless of whether your employer was negligent. Workers compensation claims do not always require you to establish fault for your to be entitled to receive remedies for the damages. Depending on your circumstances, the Texas no fault system may allow you and your family to recover costs (medical bills, funeral expenses, etc.). Howe’ver, when a company is negligent, they should have to pay for their disregard for your safety.
Worker’s compensation is an important benefit, but it may not be enough for you and your family. If your employers’ negligence contributed to your injuries, only a skilled and experienced litigation attorney can get you the remedies you need. Without a good attorney, you may not be able to recover for pain and suffering and full amount of damages. This process is time sensitive, so seek out an attorney to help you through the process.
At Williams Hart & Boundas we cherish the people who make Houston such a wonderful community. When you, or someone you know, experiences an accident at work and suffers physical injuries at the site, our experienced and compassionate attorneys are here to help. Call us today for a free consultation and we can talk about how to make sure you are fairly compensated for the damages you have suffered.
