Disclaimer: *Steve and Rich Barnes have obtained millions in recoveries for their clients and have supervised over $2.5 Billion Dollars in settlements.
Written by The Barnes Firm, reviewed by Richard Barnes
![]()
Rich Barnes
President
Construction work is considered one of the most dangerous jobs due to the inherent risks involved. Whether it’s working at elevated heights, operating heavy machinery and powerful tools, or navigating a dynamic environment, potential accident hazards are all over construction sites.
In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that nearly 1 in 5 workplace fatalities reported across the United States in 2021 occurred in the construction industry. In addition, the construction industry accounted for nearly half (46.2%) of all fatal falls, slips, and trips in the same year.
Construction accidents can cause severe injuries to workers, drivers, pedestrians, and others. These injuries often lead to complex insurance claims, settlements, or injury lawsuits in civil court.
Construction sites are inherently dangerous environments, with numerous hazards present at any given time. Common construction accidents on building sites can include falls from heights, being struck by falling objects, electrical injuries, and being caught between objects or machinery. Common accidents in road construction zones include workers getting hit by vehicles, drivers crashing due to hazards, large vehicles colliding, and more.
Any of these construction accidents can lead to severe injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death. When these accidents are caused by third parties, victims can typically file personal injury lawsuits to obtain compensation for their accident-related losses.
There are many different types of accidents that happen on construction sites, though the following are some of the most common. We unfortunately expect these to continue to happen all-too-often in 2024.
Falls are persistently the most prevalent accidents in the construction industry. According to the BLS, nonfatal injuries and illnesses as a result of slips, trips, and falls occurred at a rate of 31.4 per 10,000 full-time workers in 2020. These incidents often occur when scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or other elevated surfaces are not properly secured, causing a worker to fall. The absence of fall protection equipment, insufficient training, or hazardous working conditions can significantly contribute to these accidents.
To mitigate the risk of falls, it is imperative to ensure that workers use proper safety equipment such as harnesses and guardrails. Regular training programs should emphasize safe working practices and equip workers with the knowledge and skills to recognize and address fall hazards effectively.
Electrical injuries occur when construction workers come into contact with live electrical wires or equipment. According to the Center for Construction Research and Training, 24% of nonfatal electrical injuries from 2011 to 2020 occurred in the construction industry.
These accidents can result from factors such as inadequate insulation, damaged wiring, or failure to adhere to electrical safety protocols. To reduce the risk of electrical accidents, it is crucial to conduct regular electrical inspections to identify and rectify potential hazards. Comprehensive employee training programs should emphasize the importance of electrical safety and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with electricity.
Struck-by events involve construction workers being struck by heavy objects such as equipment, tools, or vehicles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 14,000 nonfatal construction sector injuries in 2020.
These accidents can be attributed to inadequate communication, limited visibility, or a failure to maintain a safe distance from moving machinery or objects. To prevent struck-by events, it is essential to establish clear worksite communication protocols and ensure proper signaling. High-visibility clothing and barriers should be used to enhance worker visibility and create safe zones.
Slip and fall incidents happen due to slippery surfaces, debris, or poorly maintained walking areas on construction sites. In 2020, these accidents led to 21,400 non-fatal injuries to construction workers. Inadequate housekeeping practices, failure to promptly address spills, and the absence of slip-resistant footwear can contribute to these accidents.
Preventing slip and fall incidents involves implementing a rigorous site cleanup regimen, posting clear signage to warn of potential hazards, and ensuring that workers wear appropriate slip-resistant footwear for added traction.
Falls from Heights occur when workers plummet from elevated platforms, roofs, or other high structures. According to the National Safety Council, falls to a lower level injured 49,250 construction workers in 2020 alone.
These accidents are often the result of inadequate guardrails, improperly constructed scaffolding, or the absence of fall protection measures. To mitigate the risk of falls from heights, it is imperative to strictly adhere to safety guidelines, ensuring that guardrails are securely in place and that scaffolding is constructed and inspected by trained professionals. Additionally, workers should use personal fall arrest systems when working at heights.
Vehicle accidents on construction sites encompass collisions involving cars, trucks, or heavy machinery. These incidents frequently result from negligent operation, insufficient operator training, or poor traffic management. These can happen on any type of construction site, from road work zones to building sites, and led to 5% of worker deaths in 2022. Preventing construction site vehicle accidents entails implementing stringent vehicle safety protocols, conducting comprehensive operator training programs, and establishing effective traffic control measures to segregate pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs) develop over time due to the repeated performance of strenuous tasks. Construction workers are susceptible to RSIs when they engage in the same motions regularly without ergonomic considerations or adequate rest breaks. About 20% of non-fatal construction injuries fall into this category. Mitigating the risk of RSIs involves educating workers on proper ergonomics, providing them with ergonomic tools, and scheduling regular breaks to alleviate strain on the body.
Forklift Accidents involve incidents with forklifts and other industrial vehicles. The National Safety Council reports that there were 7,290 nonfatal injuries and illnesses involving days away from work related to forklift accidents in 2020 alone. Poor maintenance practices, operator errors, or a lack of safety protocols can lead to these accidents. Reducing the risk of forklift accidents necessitates conducting regular maintenance checks to ensure equipment reliability. Furthermore, operator training programs should emphasize safe operating practices, and pedestrian pathways should be clearly marked to separate foot traffic from forklift operations.
In 2020, 8.9% of deaths from toxic exposure were construction workers. Toxic exposure occurs when construction workers are exposed to hazardous materials or chemicals on the job. Inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE), improper handling, or a lack of hazard communication can result in toxic exposure incidents. To minimize the risk of such accidents, comprehensive training should educate workers on the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials. Additionally, the consistent use of appropriate PPE and thorough hazard assessments are essential.
Caught-between events caused about 5% of construction fatalities in 2021, and these accidents transpire when workers become trapped between heavy objects, machinery, or structures. Inadequate safety precautions, a lack of machine guarding, or poor supervision can contribute to these accidents. Preventing caught-between events requires ensuring that machinery is equipped with proper guarding mechanisms and that safety procedures are strictly implemented and adhered to. Comprehensive training programs should educate workers on the potential hazards associated with heavy machinery.
About 8.8% of struck-by accidents on construction sites involved heavy machinery in 2019. Accidents involving heavy machinery encompass a wide range of incidents involving various types of equipment, including excavators, cranes, bulldozers, and more. These accidents can occur due to equipment malfunctions, operator errors, or a lack of safety measures specific to each type of heavy machinery. To significantly reduce the risk of accidents in this category, construction firms should conduct regular equipment inspections, provide comprehensive operator training for each type of machinery, and strictly adhere to safety guidelines tailored to the equipment in use.
Falls
Electrical
Struck-By Events
Slip and Fall Incidents
Falls from Heights
Toxic Exposure
Caught-Between Events
Accidents involving Heavy Machinery
Vehicle Accidents
Forklift Accidents
Construction accidents can occur due to various factors. One of the main reasons is the failure to follow safety protocols and regulations. Construction sites have specific safety guidelines that must be adhered to, but sometimes, corners are cut in the interest of saving time or money. This negligence can lead to accidents and injuries.
Inadequate training and lack of proper safety equipment are also contributing factors to construction accidents. It is the responsibility of construction companies to provide comprehensive training to their workers and ensure that they have the necessary safety gear to perform their jobs safely. Contractors, building owners, and other involved parties must also act safely and reasonably to prevent accidents and injuries.
When one or more parties are negligent and it leads to a construction accident, injured victims can hold those parties accountable and seek compensation for their losses.
Recent statistics on construction worker fatalities in the United States paint a picture of the dangers faced by those working in the construction industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5,486 worker fatalities occurred in 2022 in the United States. Consider the following regarding the construction industry:
If you have been injured in a construction accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. Construction accidents can lead to settlements and lawsuits when negligence or misconduct are involved. By filing a personal injury claim, you can seek compensation for your economic and non-economic losses, including:
Medical Expenses: Injured construction workers can seek compensation for all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to their injuries. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments.
Lost Wages: Compensation can be pursued for the wages lost due to the inability to work during recovery. This may encompass not only the immediate time off, but also any future income losses if the injury results in a long-term disability.
Pain and Suffering: Injured workers can seek compensation for physical and emotional pain and suffering resulting from the accident. This type of compensation aims to address the non-economic damages endured due to the injury.
Disability and Impairment: If the construction worker’s injuries result in a permanent disability or impairment that affects their ability to work or enjoy life as they did before the accident, they may be entitled to compensation for such lasting effects.
Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses related to physical therapy, vocational rehabilitation, or any other form of rehabilitation necessary for the injured worker’s recovery can be pursued as compensation.
Punitive Damages: In rare cases where the actions of the responsible party are deemed extremely reckless or negligent, punitive damages may be pursued to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.
In cases where a construction worker has been fatally injured, their family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This allows the surviving family members to seek compensation for their loss, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.
While construction accidents can occur despite the best safety measures, there are precautions that can help minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. Employers and workers should prioritize safety by implementing the following measures:
Provide thorough training: Employers should ensure that all workers receive comprehensive training on safety protocols, the proper use of equipment, and emergency procedures.
Use appropriate safety equipment: Workers should be provided with the necessary safety equipment, such as hard hats, harnesses, and safety goggles, to protect them from potential hazards.
Regular maintenance of equipment: Employers should regularly inspect and maintain equipment to ensure its proper functioning and minimize the risk of accidents caused by equipment failure.
Clear communication and signage: It is important to have clear communication channels and signage on construction sites to inform workers about potential hazards and safety procedures.
After a construction accident, it is crucial to take steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are some important actions to consider:
If you are involved in a construction accident, it is important to take immediate action. Here’s what you should do in case of an accident at work:
After a construction accident, it’s a good idea to contact a lawyer as soon as you can. In many cases, you can recover compensation for all of your accident-related losses.
You might have a third-party injury claim following a construction accident, or you might have a wrongful death claim if your close loved one tragically died in an accident. Either way, you deserve a full settlement or lawsuit award to ensure your losses are covered and you can move on with your life.
Above is information regarding construction accident statistics in recent years, but we expect these accidents to continue happening in 2024. While the construction industry is constantly evolving and companies should implement greater safety measures on a regular basis, there is always the risk of negligence and resulting injuries on construction sites.
Anyone who suffers injuries should seek immediate medical attention. Doing so protects your health, physical recovery, and potential legal claim. If someone else was responsible for your accident and injuries, they should also cover your past and future losses. Make sure you take the proper steps to protect your rights and seek full compensation, as you should not be responsible for covering injury-related costs.
Knowing the common types of construction accidents for 2024 can help to improve safety and prevent injuries. However, even with full knowledge of the common accidents and injuries that occur on construction sites, workers and others can still be victims of accidents. If this happens to you or someone you love, seek legal help from a skilled construction accident lawyer at The Barnes Firm as soon as possible. Consultations are always free with no obligation, so act today.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, construction accident, or have suffered another type of personal injury contact our team today.
Free Case Evaluation or call us: (800) 800-0000We are always available to discuss your case. Give us a call at (800) 800-0000.
Fill out our form and we will contact you shortly to discuss your case
Our attorneys will come to your home, office or hospital at your convenience.
We are available anytime, including after hours and
weekends.
420 Lexington Avenue
Suite #2140
New York, NY 10170
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
600 Old Country Road
Suite #425
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
500 Pearl Street
Suite #700
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
451 Grider Street
Buffalo, NY 14215
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
28 East Main Street
Suite #600
Rochester, NY 14614
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
633 West 5th Street
Suite #1750
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
555 12th Street
Suite #1470
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
655 W. Broadway
Suite #940
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050