Denver Construction Accident Lawyers

Common Causes of Construction Accidents in Denver

Construction accidents in Denver can happen for many reasons, including.

• Inadequate Safety Training. One of the primary causes of construction accidents is a lack of proper safety training. Construction workers need to be educated by employers on how to safely operate machinery, use safety equipment, and handle dangerous materials. Without proper training, workers may unknowingly put themselves and others at risk of injury.
• Failure to Follow Safety Protocols. Even with proper training, accidents can occur when safety protocols are not followed. This can include neglecting to wear necessary safety gear such as helmets, harnesses, and goggles, or failing to secure equipment properly.
• Faulty Equipment. When equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, and scaffolding is not properly maintained or inspected, it can malfunction and cause accidents. Equipment failure is a common cause of construction injuries, particularly when safety features, such as brakes, warning signals, or lifting mechanisms, are not functioning properly.
• Unsafe Site Conditions. Uneven ground, poor lighting, inadequate ventilation, and cluttered workspaces can all increase the risk of injury. Proper housekeeping ensures that workers are not exposed to avoidable dangers.
• Lack of Proper Supervision. Employers have a responsibility to ensure that construction projects are adequately supervised, making sure the work is being done, enforcing safety guidelines, and addressing any potential risks. A lack of supervision means workers don’t get the guidance they need to protect themselves.
• Weather. Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, and construction workers are often exposed to the elements. Inclement weather, such as snow, rain, or high winds, can make working conditions dangerous. These environmental factors can lead to falls, equipment malfunctions, or poor visibility, increasing the likelihood of accidents. While supervisors and construction site owners can’t do anything about the weather, they should take care to keep the site safe and even cancel work for the day in case of extreme weather.

It’s not always clear what caused your construction site accident, which is why you may want to work with Denver construction accident lawyers to get answers. A knowledgeable attorney can help determine the cause of the accident, identify liable parties, and pursue the compensation you need.

Common Construction Accident Injuries

Construction sites are among the most dangerous places to work in Colorado. Common injuries sustained in these workplaces include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs). These injuries occur when there is a blow or jolt to the head, which can happen from falling objects, falls from heights, or collisions with machinery. Sometimes, a TBI can result in permanent cognitive or physical impairments, making it impossible for workers to return to their jobs.
• Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs). These injuries occur when the spine is damaged, often due to falls, being struck by falling objects, or being involved in equipment-related accidents. Spinal injuries can lead to partial or full paralysis.
• Fractures. Broken bones can range from simple fractures that require a cast to complex breaks that require surgery and long recovery times. Some fractures can even lead to permanent disabilities.
• Chemical Injuries. Construction workers may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, electrical equipment, or flammable materials that can cause burns. Chemical burns or inhalation of toxic fumes can also cause respiratory issues or long-term health problems.
• Amputations. Fingers, hands, arms, or legs may be lost in accidents with machinery like saws, drills, or forklifts. Amputations often require multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, and prosthetics, and they can have a long-lasting impact on a worker’s quality of life.
• Hearing Loss. Over time, workers who are exposed to the loud noises common on construction sites may suffer permanent hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
• Respiratory Issues. Construction workers may be exposed to hazardous dust, chemicals, or fumes on the job, putting them at risk for respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even lung cancer.
• Soft Tissue Injuries. Sprains, strains, torn ligaments, and other soft tissue injuries often happen when workers lift heavy objects, fall, or are involved in other accidents that strain the muscles and tissues.

If you’ve been injured, always seek medical help to ensure you get the proper care and consult with Denver construction site accident lawyers to find out if you have a claim.

Can I File a Claim for a Workplace Construction Accident in Denver, CO?

In Colorado, construction workers who are injured on the job are generally covered under workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. If your injury occurred while working on a construction site, you may be eligible for benefits such as medical expenses, partial compensation for lost wages, and more.

To file a workers’ compensation claim, you must report the injury to your employer within four days of the incident. You will also need to provide evidence of your injury, such as medical records and accident reports, to support your claim.

If the accident was caused by the negligence of someone other than your employer or a coworker, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible third party. Third-party claims can provide additional compensation beyond what workers’ compensation offers.

It’s useful to consult with Denver construction accident lawyers to figure out whether you have a workers’ comp claim or a third-party claim. If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, a lawyer can also help you get your rightful benefits.