Construction sites are dynamic and inherently dangerous environments where heavy machinery, power tools, hazardous materials, and working at heights create significant safety risks. Despite extensive safety regulations and protocols, construction accidents remain alarmingly common, often resulting in devastating injuries that can forever alter a worker’s life, career prospects, and financial stability. When these accidents occur, understanding your legal rights and options becomes crucial to protecting your future.
At Dale R. Rose, PLLC, we have 32 years of experience helping construction accident victims navigate the complex legal landscape following workplace injuries. Our McKinney personal injury attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you face after a construction accident and are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Common Types of Construction Accidents
Construction sites present numerous hazards that can lead to serious injuries. Understanding the most common types of construction accidents can help workers remain vigilant and employers implement proper safety measures.
The construction industry has what safety professionals call the “Fatal Four” – the four most dangerous types of accidents that account for the majority of construction fatalities:
- Falls from heights: Including falls from scaffolding, roofs, ladders, and unprotected edges
- Struck-by accidents: When workers are hit by moving equipment, falling objects, or flying debris
- Caught-in/between accidents: When workers become caught in machinery or between objects
- Electrocutions: From contact with exposed wiring, power lines, or defective equipment
Beyond these fatal four, construction workers also commonly suffer injuries from trench collapses, equipment malfunctions, explosions, exposure to toxic substances, and repetitive stress injuries.
Who May Be Liable for Construction Accidents?
Construction accident claims often involve multiple potentially liable parties. Identifying all responsible parties is essential to maximizing your recovery. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, liability may rest with:
General Contractors and Subcontractors
General contractors and subcontractors have a duty to provide a reasonably safe work environment. This includes ensuring proper safety protocols are followed, equipment is maintained, and workers receive adequate training. When they fail in these duties, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.
Property Owners
In some cases, property owners may share liability for construction accidents, particularly if they retained significant control over the work being performed or were aware of dangerous conditions on the property.
Equipment Manufacturers
When accidents result from defective equipment or machinery, the manufacturers or distributors of that equipment may be held liable through product liability claims. These cases involve proving the equipment had a design defect, manufacturing defect, or inadequate warnings.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation and Third-Party Claims
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in Texas, you may have multiple avenues for compensation:
Workers’ Compensation
In Texas, workers’ compensation provides benefits for employees injured on the job regardless of fault. These benefits typically cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages but do not compensate for pain and suffering. It’s important to note that Texas is the only state that doesn’t require employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
Third-Party Claims
Even if you receive workers’ compensation, you may still be able to file a third-party claim against someone other than your employer who contributed to your accident. These claims can provide additional compensation beyond what workers’ compensation offers, including damages for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and reduced earning capacity.
For example, if your injury resulted from defective equipment, you might have a claim against the equipment manufacturer while still collecting workers’ compensation benefits.
Contact a McKinney Construction Accident Lawyer
Construction accident claims involve complex legal questions about liability, insurance coverage, and the interplay between workers’ compensation and third-party claims. With 32 years of legal experience, Dale R. Rose, PLLC has recovered approximately $18 million for clients since 2010. Our team has the knowledge and resources to investigate your accident thoroughly, identify all liable parties, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Call (972) 634-ROSE (7673) or contact us through our website to get started on the road to recovery.