What Causes Construction Accidents? Can Someone Be at Fault?

Construction sites are some of the most hazardous workplaces in the United States. Despite stringent regulations, accidents (often due to negligence) happen far too often, sometimes with catastrophic consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, it’s important to understand who may be liable and how these incidents could have been prevented. 

OSHA’s Fatal Four: The Leading Causes of Construction Fatalities

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies four major causes of fatalities in the construction industry, known as the “Fatal Four.” These account for over half of all construction worker deaths:

1. Falls

Falls are the leading cause of construction fatalities, often occurring due to unprotected edges, faulty scaffolding, and unsecured ladders. 

OSHA mandates that employers assess fall hazards and enforce safety protocols. A failure to do so can result in liability for worker injuries or deaths. Employers must provide guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems. Proper training on using fall protection equipment and ensuring stable scaffolding and ladders can significantly reduce risks.

2. Object Collisions

Employers must ensure their worksites are free of unnecessary hazards and provide training to workers on situational awareness. Workers can be struck by falling tools, equipment, or materials, or be hit by a moving vehicle or machinery on the site. To protect against this, employers must require workers to wear hard hats and enforce secure storage of tools and materials. Proper traffic controls and equipment inspections are also important.

3. Electrocution

Electrocutions occur when workers come into contact with everything from power lines to exposed wires, or faulty equipment. OSHA requires employers to ground electrical equipment, mark live wires, and provide insulated tools and protective gear. It’s also the employer’s duty to identify and address electrical hazards and ensure compliance with electrical safety standards.

4. Crushing Injuries

Crushing accidents occur when a worker is caught in collapsing trenches, machinery, or between heavy equipment. This often causes catastrophic injury or death. To prevent this, employers must ensure proper trenching techniques, shoring systems, and machinery guards are in place. Workers should be trained to avoid standing between large objects or machinery. OSHA mandates strict safety protocols for excavation and equipment operation to prevent these incidents. 

Other Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents 

Beyond the “Fatal Four,” there are several additional hazards that can lead to serious injuries: 

Scaffolding Collapses 

Scaffolding failures often result from poor construction, overloading, or failure to inspect materials. Employers must adhere to OSHA’s scaffolding standards, ensuring structures can bear the required load and are regularly inspected.

Tool and Equipment Malfunctions 

Defective tools and machinery can lead to severe injuries. Employers are required to maintain equipment, conduct regular inspections, and train workers on proper usage. 

Hazardous Material Exposure 

Workers often handle toxic chemicals, asbestos, or other hazardous substances without adequate protection. Employers must provide appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and respirators, and adhere to Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) requirements. 

Vehicle Accidents

Construction vehicles, including forklifts, cranes, and trucks, pose significant risks if operated incorrectly or without proper training. Employers should implement traffic control measures and provide operator certifications. 

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Construction Accident Lawsuit? 

Determining liability in construction accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible. Possible liable parties include: 

• Employers: if an employer fails to comply with OSHA standards or provide a safe work environment, they can be held liable for negligence. Workers’ compensation may apply, but gross negligence can lead to additional claims. 
• Property Owners: property owners who fail to ensure the site is reasonably safe for workers can also be held accountable. 
• General Contractors: contractors are responsible for maintaining safety on-site. If they fail to enforce protocols, they may be liable for accidents. 
• Subcontractors: if subcontractors are on site and involved in the accident, they can also be held liable for their part in the incident. 
• Equipment Manufacturers: if a tool or piece of machinery malfunctions due to a design or manufacturing defect, the equipment manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws. 
• Third-Party Vendors: vendors delivering materials or operating machinery on-site may share liability if their actions contribute to an accident. 

It’s Often an Employer’s Responsibility to Prevent Construction Site Accidents

Employers play a major role in reducing risks and ensuring worker safety, and they are often at fault when someone is injured on a construction site. Because of this, they have many duties and responsibilities when it comes to creating a safe worksite. Some of the many precautions they must take include: 

• Conducting regular safety training and enforcing compliance with OSHA standards. 
• Performing daily site inspections to identify and address hazards. 
• Providing workers with appropriate safety equipment and ensuring proper usage. 
• Establishing clear communication protocols to prevent missteps and accidents. 

Get Help for You and Your Family Today 

Construction accidents can result in life-altering injuries and significant financial burdens. While safety protocols and regulations exist to prevent these tragedies, accidents still happen due to negligence or non-compliance. If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, understanding your rights and the available legal options is crucial. 

At Morelli Law, we have extensive experience helping injured workers secure the compensation they deserve. Our construction accident attorneys have helped our clients recover billions in verdicts and settlements. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step toward recovery.