Construction Accidents in California—What Are the Greatest Risks Workers Face?
Construction is one of the largest industries in California, helping companies and consumers benefit from a constant stream of public works projects, renovations, and new builds. However, this industry is also incredibly dangerous. Not only is it a naturally hazardous field because of the nature of the work, but carelessness and negligence make it even riskier for workers. That’s why it’s important to consult a workers’ compensation lawyer in Upland to know your rights.
When you choose attorney Scot Thomas Moga for your workers’ compensation claim, you know that you have a strong and experienced advocate on your side. He knows the process can be confusing for workers, especially when employers intentionally try to misguide them or deny them their rights. Call our workers’ compensation law firm at 909-931-2444 now to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Scope of Construction Injuries in California
Construction consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous industries for workers, reporting the highest number of workplace fatalities of all industries in 2023. And fatalities aren’t the only poor outcome workers may experience. For every worker who loses their live in construction, there are multiple employees who suffer broken bones, burns, traumatic brain injuries, and amputations.
The most common dangers in this field are called the Fatal Four: falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-in or -between accidents. Although Cal/OSHA uses strict regulations to make construction worksites safer, fatalities and injuries continue.
Falls From Heights
Falls remain the single most significant danger to California construction workers, accounting for nearly 40% of all construction fatalities in 2023. Most were from a fall of six to thirty feet. Some of the most common causes of falls from heights include missing or broken guardrails, unsecured harnesses and safety lines, slippery and uneven surfaces, and a lack of fall protection training.
Despite the fact that Cal/OSHA requires personal fall restraint systems any time someone is working at a height of six feet or higher, a surprising amount of employees do not use these systems. Contractors, foremen, and supervisors often take unnecessary risks to save time, and in doing so, they put employees in harm’s way.
Struck-By and Caught-In or -Between Hazards
Employees who are struck by an object, caught in a piece of equipment, or caught between hazards can all suffer serious or fatal injuries. Heavy machinery, vehicles, and tools are constantly moving, and all are capable of causing these types of injuries.
Struck-by injuries involve workers being hit by objects like falling beams, swinging loads, or equipment. Caught-in and -between accidents occur when workers are trapped between machinery, walls, and equipment.
These incidents are frequently linked to a lack of communication between workers, failure to use safety equipment, malfunctioning equipment, inadequate supervision and training, and general carelessness. These injuries can have a devastating impact on workers, often leaving them with crush injuries, amputations, and long-term disabilities. In some cases, a third party is liable. Your workers’ compensation attorney can help determine whether or not another party may be liable for your injuries.
Electrical Hazards and Burns
Electricity is a constant presence on nearly every part of a construction site, so electrical injuries are an ever-present danger. Workers may be electrocuted or burned when they come into contact with live wires, unintentionally use defective tools, or work near power lines without taking the right precautions.
These injuries are often caused by a failure to de-energize circuits before repair, wet conditions, damaged extension cords, and ungrounded equipment. Cal/OSHA requires employers to train employees on electrical safety and utilize lockout/tagout procedures, but these requirements are not always met. The result? Severe burns, nerve damage, cardiac arrest, and even death.
Equipment and Machinery Accidents
Cranes, forklifts, bulldozers, and other heavy machinery used on job sites make construction work incredibly dangerous. The risk increases when equipment is poorly maintained or when employers fail to keep up with inspections.
Accidents involving machinery and equipment are often tied to inexperienced and unlicensed operators, faulty safety mechanisms, blind spots, poor signaling, and equipment defects.
In most cases, someone injured in an equipment accident is entitled to workers’ compensation. However, if the injury is the result of a third party’s negligence (such as poorly done maintenance work), a personal injury claim may be an option. Consult a workers’ compensation law firm to learn more.
Reach Out to Moga Law Firm and Set Up a Consultation With a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today!
At Moga Law Firm, we know how a work injury can derail your career goals and leave you with serious financial losses. By discussing your case with a workers’ compensation lawyer, you can figure out your next steps and protect your rights. Reach out to our workers’ comp law firm online or call us at 909-931-2444.
Scot Thomas Moga, a dedicated attorney in San Bernardino & Riverside Counties who represents clients in the many types of personal injury, workers’ compensation and estate planning cases.
