Injured in a Houston Construction Site Accident?
Houston is home to some of the country’s most impressive and ambitious construction projects. In 2021, construction was completed on the Texas Tower, a 47-story skyscraper in the heart of downtown Houston. As Houston pushes for growth to meet the demands of a growing population, pressures increase for those working in the construction industry. This situation leads to a proportional increase in construction workers’ risk of accidental injury.
Despite the challenges injured construction workers face, they have a strong ally in attorney Darius Khosravian at DK Law. Backed by Mr. Khosravian’s prestigious membership in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, DK Law is an ideal advocate for injured construction workers in Houston. This recognition highlights their proficiency in securing substantial settlements for clients, including those involved in complex construction injury cases.
Call DK Law at (281) 916-2516 to schedule a free consultation with a Houston personal injury lawyer about your case today.
Darius is very professional and a fantastic attorney.
- Tatiana S., Google Review
Types of Work that Often Lead to Accidents
Because construction work covers a wide range of spaces and environments, with varying requirements depending on the project, the types of accidents and injuries that construction workers face are just as varied.
Examples of common construction site accidents include:
- Scaffolding Accidents: Scaffolding is commonly used for elevated work. Accidents often result from improper assembly, lack of fall protection, or scaffold failure due to overloading or structural defects. Typical injuries include falls from heights, fractures, and head injuries.
- Heavy Machinery: Equipment like cranes and forklifts pose risks such as overturning, collisions, or material handling accidents. Injuries range from crush injuries and amputations to fatalities caused by improper operation, mechanical failure, or inadequate training.
- Falls: Working at heights, using ladders, or near open pits increases fall risks. Accidents occur due to unstable surfaces, improper ladder use, or lack of guardrails. Injuries include fractures, spinal injuries, and concussions. Prevention involves proper training, fall protection systems, and regular site inspections.
- Electrical Work: Electrical hazards lead to electrocution, burns, or shocks. Risks stem from exposed wires, faulty equipment, or improper grounding. Safety measures include lockout/tagout procedures, insulation, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Trenching and Excavation: Cave-ins are a primary risk during trenching and excavation. Accidents result from unsupported trench walls, inadequate sloping, or failure to use protective systems like trench boxes. Injuries include burial, suffocation, or crush injuries. Compliance with safety standards such as shoring and regular inspections mitigates these risks.
What Injuries Are Most Common on Construction Sites?
Construction site accidents can lead to severe injuries, including:
- Burns: Construction sites pose burn risks from chemical exposures, electrical malfunctions, or fires. Chemical burns result from contact with corrosive substances, while electrical burns occur due to electrical faults or accidents. Fire-related burns involve flames or explosions. Short-term effects include pain, swelling, and scarring, while long-term consequences may involve disfigurement or respiratory issues.
- Electrocution and Electrical Shock: Electrical accidents can cause severe injuries such as electrocution, leading to cardiac arrest or fatal burns. Electrical shocks vary in severity but can result in muscle spasms, nerve damage, or respiratory failure. Immediate impacts include cardiac issues or burns, while long-term effects may involve neurological damage or chronic pain.
- Crush Injuries: Crush injuries occur when workers are caught under heavy equipment or in collapsing structures. Typical injuries include crushed limbs, internal bleeding, or organ damage. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent complications such as infections, amputations, or permanent disability.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be suffered from falls, being struck by objects, or heavy machinery accidents. Severe brain damage can cause symptoms like headaches, memory loss, cognitive impairments, and emotional disturbances, and the long-term effects may include chronic headaches, personality changes, or even permanent disability, which impacts workers ability to return to their job or maintain quality of life.
- Spinal Injuries and Paralysis: Spinal injuries on construction often occur from falls or being crushed or struck by heavy objects and can cause partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the spinal cord damage. Immediate symptoms include severe back pain, loss of sensation, and impaired mobility, and long-term consequences can involve chronic pain, permanent disability, and a need for lifelong medical care and assistance with daily activities.
- Wrongful Death: Fatal accidents on construction sites have devastating impacts on families and coworkers. Causes include falls, machinery accidents, or structural collapses. Families may face emotional trauma, loss of financial support, and legal complexities when pursuing wrongful death claims for compensation and justice. Legal considerations involve proving negligence and ensuring accountability for safety violations.
Understanding Houston’s Statute of Limitations and Workers’ Compensation
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a construction accident claim ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on the nature of the claim and the parties involved. Acting without delay is crucial to preserve evidence and secure witness testimony. Workers’ compensation benefits cover medical expenses and lost wages for injured construction workers, regardless of fault.
However, these benefits generally exclude compensation for pain and suffering. Workers’ comp often limits the right to sue employers for negligence. The case may allow for third-party claims against other liable parties, such as subcontractors or equipment manufacturers, providing additional avenues for compensation.
Forms of Compensation You May Be Entitled to in Houston
Once liability for the construction accident injury is established, the injured party is entitled to compensation from the liable party.
Compensation for construction accident injuries include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for immediate treatment, surgeries, hospital stays, medication, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care related to the injury.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost during recovery from the injury, including future earning potential when an injury results in long-term disability or a reduced capacity to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life caused by the injury and its effects.
- Disability Benefits: Benefits for temporary or permanent disabilities resulting from the injury, including partial or total disability that affects the ability to work.
- Wrongful Death Claims: Compensation available to the family of a deceased worker, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of consortium.
Get Legal Assistance from Our Construction Accident Lawyer in Houston
Due to the complicated nature of Houston construction accident cases, lawyers play a crucial role by providing advisory support and ensuring clients make informed decisions. They undertake critical investigative steps to gather and preserve evidence that is essential for building a solid case. Furthermore, they adeptly manage negotiations with insurance companies to secure fair settlements that encompass medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. As advocates, lawyers employ strategic approaches to maximize compensation, advocating fiercely for clients’ rights and well-being.
Contact DK Law at (281) 916-2516 today to seek justice for your construction accident injuries. Our experienced Houston construction site injury attorney can help.
