Falling Debris

NO FEES UNLESS WE ARE SUCCESSFUL

Accidents at construction sites cause the most fatal injuries of all the major industry groups. While some injuries remain unreported, non-fatal construction injuries that are reported tend to be much more serious when proportionately compared to those in other industries. The most common types of construction injuries are related to handling (29%), slip-and-fall (22%), and falling debris (16%). In 2018, OSHA reported that workers struck by falling objects caused 112 deaths. Falling debris is often considered one of the most dangerous and disregarded safety hazards at a construction site.

“Falling debris” is a very general term that encompasses a wide range of scenarios. The accident may be caused by defective equipment at the construction site. For example, if a ladder or scaffold is not properly supported, debris can fall and severely injure workers below. Or, an employee working on a scaffold, crane, ladder, or steel girder can drop an object. Common items falling from height that may cause injury include pulleys or cables, power tools, glass, lumber, drywall, and other building materials.

The Boston personal injury lawyers at Bellotti Law Group, P.C. have successfully handled hundreds of construction accident cases over many years. Contact our Boston, Cambridge or Quincy office today at 617-225-2100 for a FREE evaluation of your case.

Everyone On A Construction Site Plays A Crucial Role In Averting Injuries Caused By Falling Debris

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards that all employers at construction sites are required to follow. It is the responsibility of the general contractor to follow all precautions to ensure the safety of employees and nearby pedestrians. For example, it is standard operating procedure to place barriers or catch platforms beside the construction site in order to protect those working below from falling debris. Furthermore, all platforms above a certain height must be enclosed by a barrier or railing. The general contractor is also responsible for confirming that its workers are properly trained and following all safety procedures. Other precautions include placing warning signs in high-risk areas and adequately planning for weather disturbances.

There May Exist Numerous At-Fault Parties For Your Injuries

Falling debris can cause a variety of serious injuries, including paralysis, broken bones, head and neck injuries, etc. If you have been injured by falling debris, you may have multiple claims against the employer (through workers’ compensation), the owner of the construction site, other sub-contractors, or manufacturers of defective safety equipment. Many injured construction workers are entitled to more than just workers’ compensation, and we will explore all options to provide compensation for medical bills and lost wages. Almost all injuries and fatalities caused by falling debris are preventable and frequently can be attributed to the negligence of workers and supervisors.

Construction Companies

A construction company may be liable for your injuries if their negligence resulted in falling debris. If a construction company fails to meet safety standards, properly train employees, or conduct inspections for hazards, the company may be held directly liable.

Product Manufacturers

Falling debris could occur due to defective products. For example, a crane manufacturer may be held liable for the collapse of a crane at a construction site. If a manufacturer’s product malfunctions and causes injuries, the manufacturer may be at fault. You must prove that the other party was negligent in order to obtain compensation in a product liability claim. Strict rules of product liability will apply to these cases, and it is vital to have an experienced attorney on your side to navigate and support your case.

Property Owners

A property may be at fault for your falling debris injury. If a property defect such as a building collapse or falling objects inside the building causes your injuries, then the landowner can be held liable for damages. Property owners are required by Massachusetts law to maintain safe premises. This includes inspecting the property, repairing it, and warning visitors of any safety risks. Owners that fail to prevent falling debris can be deemed negligent, and they can be held liable for any damages.

Government Entities

If you were injured by falling debris in a public space, you might be able to make a claim against government entities in Massachusetts. For example, parts of a tree could fall on you in a public park, and the government body in charge of maintaining the park could be found liable. Government claims have different rules than injury cases, and it is important to hire an attorney to help you bring a claim to damages against the government. These cases are hard to navigate and hiring an attorney will greatly improve your chances of success in these claims. Call 617-225-2100 for a free consultation at Bellotti Law Group, P.C. today.

At Bellotti Law Group, P.C., we will carefully examine your injury and its surrounding circumstances, and determine the best course of action to help you recover. Talk to a construction accident attorney today about your options.