Construction is an essential industry in Los Angeles, California, responsible for building and maintaining the infrastructure that drives the economy. However, construction work can be hazardous, leading to accidents that cause injuries, property damage, and sometimes fatalities. In this article, we will discuss the most common construction accidents in Los Angeles and the most prevalent injuries they cause. We will also provide statistics on construction accidents in California.
Most Common Construction Accidents in Los Angeles
Falls from height are the most common construction accidents in Los Angeles, accounting for 39% of all construction accidents. Workers may fall from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or other elevated structures, leading to serious injuries or even death. Other common construction accidents in Los Angeles include electrocutions, struck-by-object accidents, caught-in/between accidents, and trench collapses.
Electrocutions occur when workers come into contact with live electrical wires, machinery, or equipment, leading to electrical shock, burns, or even death. Struck-by-object accidents happen when workers are hit by falling objects, such as tools, equipment, or building materials. Caught-in/between accidents occur when workers are caught, crushed, or compressed by equipment or materials. Trench collapses happen when trenches or excavations collapse on workers, leading to suffocation or crushing injuries.
Most Common Injuries in Construction Accidents
The most common injuries in construction accidents include broken bones, cuts and bruises, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries. Workers who fall from height may suffer from fractures, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Electrocutions may cause burns, heart damage, and neurological injuries. Struck-by-object accidents can cause severe head and internal injuries. Caught-in/between accidents may lead to amputations, fractures, and crush injuries. Trench collapses may cause suffocation or crushing injuries.
Statistics on Construction Accidents in California
According to the California Department of Industrial Relations, there were 462 fatal and non-fatal construction accidents in California in 2020. Of these, 101 were fatal accidents, and 361 were non-fatal accidents. Falls from height were the leading cause of fatal construction accidents, accounting for 39% of all fatal accidents. Electrocutions were the second leading cause, accounting for 15% of all fatal accidents.
Equipment-related injuries are one of the most common types of accidents that occur in the construction industry. These injuries can range from minor to severe and can be caused by a variety of factors. In this article, we will discuss the types of equipment-related injuries that can occur on construction sites, who may be liable for these accidents, and what you should do if you have been injured on the job.
Types of Equipment-Related Injuries
There are several different types of equipment-related injuries that can occur on construction sites. Some of the most common types of injuries include:
- Crush Injuries: These occur when a worker is caught between two heavy objects, such as a wall and a piece of equipment.
- Lacerations: These are cuts or puncture wounds that can occur when a worker comes into contact with sharp objects or equipment.
- Burns: These injuries can be caused by electrical equipment, hot surfaces, and chemicals.
- Amputations: These occur when a worker loses a limb or digit as a result of an accident involving machinery.
- Hearing Loss: This can be caused by exposure to loud noises on the job, such as those created by heavy machinery and power tools.
Who Is Liable for Construction Accident Injuries?
Determining liability for construction accident injuries can be a complex process. In general, there are several parties who may be held liable for these accidents, including:
- Employers: Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment for their employees. If they fail to do so and an accident occurs, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries.
- Equipment Manufacturers: If a piece of equipment is defective or malfunctions, the manufacturer may be held liable for any injuries that result.
- Contractors: Contractors may be held liable if they fail to properly supervise their employees or if they create hazardous working conditions.
- Subcontractors: Subcontractors may be held liable if they create hazardous working conditions or fail to properly train their employees.
What Should I Do After a Construction Accident?
If you have been injured in a construction accident, there are several steps that you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should always be your top priority. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Report the Accident: Report the accident to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. Be sure to document the details of the accident and any injuries that you have sustained.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photographs of the accident scene and any equipment involved. Obtain contact information for any witnesses to the accident.
- Contact an Attorney: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help you understand your legal rights and options.
At The Law Collective, our attorneys have extensive experience representing individuals who have been injured in construction accidents. We understand the challenges that injured workers face, and we are dedicated to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
