Some of the most common construction accidents in Florida are falls from heights, being struck by objects and electrocution to name a few. These incidents can involve many situations.
Florida construction accidents can also occur when a worker suffers a slip, trip and fall or electrocution. Struck-by accidents and objects falling on top of construction workers happen as well. Many of these unfortunate incidents result in severe injuries or even death. Sadly, many construction accidents are preventable.
Types of Construction Accidents in Florida
Different types of construction accidents occur in Florida. They include falls from heights, being struck by objects, electrocution, caught in/between accidents, equipment accidents, scaffolding accidents and chemical exposure.
Falls from Heights
Construction workers often work on top of buildings or scaffolding. This can lead to falls from heights, one of the most common construction accidents. Safety equipment can prevent work-related tragedies.
Struck By Objects
Struck-by-objects is one of the most common construction accidents. Due to the dangerous nature of the job, equipment or parts can go flying on the site and hit a worker. Depending on the force and speed of the impact, a construction worker can suffer severe injuries or even be killed.
Electrocution
Construction involves working with electrical equipment, and wires are often around. As a result, workers can suffer electrocution if a short circuit occurs or wires are exposed. These injuries can be serious and even fatal in some cases.
Caught In/Between Accidents
Caught in or between accidents are common in the construction industry. They happen when part of a worker’s body is caught in equipment or between two or more objects. These are some of the most severe construction accidents, and workers are often catastrophically injured or killed as a result.
Equipment Accidents
Some construction accidents involve equipment. Construction workers can suffer various injuries depending on the circumstances and type of equipment. This may include amputations, disfigurement or even death.
Scaffolding Accidents
Construction workers perform their jobs around and on scaffolding, which can lead to serious accidents. A worker can fall while on top of these structures or get hit or pinned if scaffolding falls and they can’t get out of the way in time to avoid it.
Chemical Exposure
Construction requires working around different chemicals and materials that can make workers sick. Depending on the substance and type of exposure, a construction worker can suffer respiratory issues, skin irritation or even poisoning.
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Common Injuries in Construction Accidents in Florida
Certain injuries are common in construction accidents in Florida. They include spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, burns, respiratory issues and repetitive stress injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries usually occur in construction accidents when workers fall from heights. This can result in a slipped disc resulting in chronic pain or broken vertebrae and permanent paralysis.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Construction workers can sustain job-related traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in different ways. They can hit their head in a fall, vehicle crash or struck by accident. TBIs can also occur when an object penetrates the skull and brain.
Broken Bones
One of the most common construction accident injuries involves broken bones. Fractures can occur in the legs, arms, wrists, ankles or even in areas like the face or neck in severe cases.
Burns (Electrical and Chemical)
Because construction requires working with electrical equipment and components and various substances, workers can suffer from burns. These can be electrical or chemical and range from mild to severe.
Respiratory Issues
Depending on the type of work performed and the substances around them, construction workers can suffer from respiratory issues. These injuries can be prevented with the right safety equipment like N95 masks.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Construction workers can suffer repetitive stress injuries. This occurs when they perform the same motions repeatedly. Constantly bending, lifting and using certain equipment can lead to the development of these injuries.
Legal Aspects of Construction Accidents in Florida
Different legal aspects come into play in Florida construction accidents. They include workers’ compensation claims, third-party liability claims, OSHA regulations and violations and statute of limitations for construction accident claims.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
According to Florida Statute 440.09, employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance and provide coverage to employees injured on the job. This is to provide workers with financial compensation if they cannot work or must work modified jobs.
Third-Party Liability Claims
According to Florida Statute 440.39, if a worker is injured or killed on the job due to negligence or deliberate action by a third party, they or their survivors can file a third-party claim. This allows for compensation from that party and the employer’s insurance carrier.
OSHA Regulations and Violations
According to Florida Statute 442.007, employers must comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. This involves implementing measures to ensure all workers are safe while performing their regular job duties. If employers violate OSHA’s requirements, they can face penalties.
Statute of Limitations for Construction Accident Claims
The statute of limitations for construction accident claims is two years. It’s crucial to file within that time to ensure your case is heard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Common Type of Accident in the Construction Industry?
The most common type of accident in the construction accident involves falls. They can happen when workers are situated at heights or because of obstacles leading to slip-and-falls.
Which of These is the Most Common Cause of Fatal Accidents in Florida?
Elevated falls rank among the most common causes of fatal accidents in Florida. Construction workers regularly work at heights, putting them at greater risk.
What Is the Largest Cause of Construction Accidents?
A lack of protection is the largest cause of construction accidents. Employers must provide safety features on worksites.
What Is the Highest Risk in Construction?
Working from heights poses the highest risk in construction. Workers can suffer serious injuries or even death from such accidents.
What Building Has the Most Deaths During Construction?
The original World Trade Center in New York City had the most deaths during construction in 1973. Sadly, 60 workers died while constructing the building.
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