Construction Accident Lawyer in Toledo

In Ohio, construction sites are a dangerous place to earn a living. Approximately 20% of all fatalities in the workplace happen on construction sites, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The federal bureau has identified the four most prevalent causes of fatalities in the construction industry. Deemed the “Fatal Four,” they are:

• Electrocutions
• Falls
• Being struck by an object
• Being caught between two objects

Just because a person has chosen to work in the field of construction, that does not mean he or she has given up the right to work in a safe environment protected under federal law. If injured on a construction site, it is important to know the benefits you may receive and who can be held responsible.

Common Benefits Given After a Construction Accident

In the construction industry, a worker (for the most part) is unable to sue the employer for work-related injuries because the nature of the job is so dangerous. However, a third party could be held liable if they were negligent when the accident occurred on the construction site.

A worker may also be entitled to compensation in most states through the Workers’ Compensation Act, which was created to protect workers who were hurt or disabled while performing their duties at their place of employment.  These laws also offer benefits to the dependents of workers killed due to illnesses or accidents that are work-related. Payments are disbursed based on a percentage of the injured worker’s weekly compensation and the severity of the injury.

When is a Third Party Responsible in a Construction Accident?

There are certain circumstances in which a third party is held accountable for an injury on a construction site. If they are negligent or if inadequate safety protocols are in place, architects, owners, contractors, and the manufacturers of equipment could be liable. If the site employs subcontractors and general contractors, they could be held accountable, as well, because they are also responsible for safeguarding against potential work hazards.

If a construction company hires a contractor to perform the work, that contractor has an obligation to:

• Hire employees (subcontractors) who use caution and care while working
• Warn others of potential dangers at the site
• Ensure all safety procedures are being followed

Those who manufacture equipment used on construction sites are responsible for designing products that are safe. Products that have defects significantly increase the likelihood for personal injury and may be the direct cause of a workplace accident. The possibility of death is also present if safety measures are not followed in the equipment’s production.

Below is a short list of equipment used on construction sites:

• Cranes
• Scaffolding
• Conveyors
• Ladders
• Tractors
• Forklifts
• Boilers
• Hoists
• Gas detectors
• Woodworking tools
  

Work with a Reliable Construction Accident Lawyer in Toledo

If you or someone you love has been injured on a construction site, the construction accident lawyers of Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott are here to help. We conduct thorough investigations to determine which non-employer is at fault. If necessary, we will assist you in pursuing a case against a third party for monetary damages. To schedule a free consultation, call (419) 241-5500. Contact us today and speak with one of our experienced professionals.