Construction sites are inherently dangerous due to the nature of the work, which often involves heavy machinery, working at heights, and exposure to hazardous materials. In Ohio, the construction industry continues to see a significant number of injuries each year. According to recent statistics, there were approximately 169,600 recorded injuries in the U.S. construction industry in 2022, the year with the most recent complete statistics. The construction industry also accounts for nearly 20% of all deaths on the job. These high rates of injuries underscore the critical need for stringent safety measures and awareness on construction sites.
Five common construction injuries
Construction injuries can involve a wide range of circumstances. Still, these five categories are the most common examples.
- Falls: Accounting for about 35% of all construction-related injuries, falls are the leading cause of injury in the construction industry. These can occur when workers fall from ladders, scaffolding, roofs or any elevated work surface.
- Struck-by incidents: Making up approximately 17% of all construction injuries, struck-by events occur when a moving object, such as falling tools, equipment or building materials, hits a worker.
- Electrocutions: Accounting for about 7.6% of construction injuries, electrocution injuries happen when workers come into contact with live electrical wires or equipment.
- Caught-in/between incidents: Representing about 5.8% of construction injuries, these occur when a worker is caught in or compressed by equipment or objects, or when they are struck, caught or crushed in collapsing structures.
- Repetitive motion injuries: These injuries result from repetitive tasks that strain muscles and joints, such as lifting, bending, or using tools. While not as immediately severe as other injuries, repetitive motion injuries make up 20% of all worksite injuries and can lead to long-term disability.
Workers’ compensation vs. Personal injury
Workers’ injuries will generally fall into one of these two categories. Most construction injuries involve workers’ compensation claims, which provides benefits to employees injured on the job regardless of fault. This includes medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and a portion of lost wages. In some cases, if the injury was caused by a third party’s negligence (e.g., a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer), the injured worker might file a personal injury lawsuit. This can potentially provide compensation for pain and suffering, total wage loss, and other damages not covered by workers’ comp. Workers can potentially file both workers’ compensation and a personal injury claim, but it depends on the circumstances of the injury.
There are legal consequences for construction site injuries
If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, legal guidance from a law firm focused on helping clients injured at a construction site is essential. They can provide valuable support in navigating the complexities of filing a workers’ comp claim. An experienced attorney can help ensure workers (and their families) receive the full benefits and compensation, whether through workers’ compensation or a personal injury lawsuit. Don’t wait to protect your rights and secure your future by consulting a legal professional today.