Many Los Angeles residents choose to work in the construction industry for various reasons. The city is full of construction projects, so there is always a need for construction workers, and working in construction is a fulfilling, enjoyable job for people who enjoy being outside and do not want to sit in front of a screen all day.
Despite these advantages, most construction workers understand that working in the construction industry involves the risk of serious physical injuries. Falls are one of the biggest causes of construction site injuries.
Some alarming statistics
In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of deaths among construction workers. Additionally, the construction industry has the highest number of fatalities from falls, and accounts for over 50% of falls on a nationwide basis.
Although not all falls are fatal, most construction workers sustain serious injuries after a fall, such as broken bones, fractures or head injuries. The injuries caused by a fall can lead to the loss of a construction workers entire career, in addition to large medical bills, a lengthy recovery time and extensive pain and suffering.
Construction companies have a legal duty to provide a safe work environment for their workers, to reduce the risk of accidents such as falls. Companies that fail to adhere to this duty can be found negligent and be required to pay compensation for damages sustained by an injured worker.
Examples of construction company negligence
Negligence by construction companies comes in many forms. Workers may not receive adequate training on how to use equipment such as ladders properly, or work from high heights on roofs or scaffolds. Sometimes the right equipment may not even be provided to workers.
Fall injuries are not always caused by working at great heights. Companies should perform regular worksite checks to make sure areas are clear of puddles or other hazards that may cause a worker to slip and fall.
Construction workers cannot afford the major consequences of a serious fall. A personal injury claim may be the best option to obtain compensation.