Slip and fall accidents are quite common on construction sites. While workers have a high risk, passersby do as well. These accidents can result in severe injuries that usually result in lost wages and mounting medical expenses, along with pain and suffering and psychological trauma.
Many of these accidents could have been prevented, if not for the negligence of the construction company or other entities responsible for safety on the site. However, establishing negligence can be complicated, which is why it is important to discuss the incident with a trusted attorney.
At Anderson & Cummings, the slip and fall lawyers in our Fort Worth office are dedicated to protecting the rights of injury victims throughout the state of Texas. We have over 50 years of combined legal experience, and we have recovered over $100 million in compensation on behalf of our clients.
Contact our firm today for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your claim. You will not be billed for our services unless you hire us, and we secure compensation.
When Are Construction Companies Liable?
Generally, a construction company could be held liable for a slip and fall accident if the accident resulted from the construction company’s negligence. For example, if your lawyer can prove the construction company violated Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, you may have a valid claim.
OSHA has numerous safety regulations for construction sites. These regulations are designed to prevent accidents, including slip and fall accidents. For example, trenches must have walls with supports to prevent collapses and keep people from falling in.
Negligence means a failure to uphold a duty of care owed to someone. The failure to uphold the duty of care must be directly linked to the injury and the injury must have resulted in damages. A duty of care is a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to keep others safe. There are many different duties of care. For example, a construction company might be considered negligent for failing to have appropriate signs warning passersby of fall risks.
Your attorney will likely need to consider many factors to determine if negligence played a role in a slip and fall injury, such as:
- Location where the accident happened
- Condition of the work area
- Type of equipment used in the area
- How equipment was being used
- Person controlling the equipment
- Whether the injured party was an employee, independent contractor or bystander
Who Else Could Be Held Liable?
Some parties that could potentially be held liable for a slip and fall accident at a construction site might include:
- Prime contractors – They are responsible for the work included in their contracts with the construction company. Prime contractors are also responsible for the work and safety precautions taken by subcontractors they hire.
- General contractors – They must maintain a reasonably safe work environment for their employees and for the public that is nearby.
- Architects and engineers – Hired professionals, such as architects and engineers, are legally obligated to ensure the safety of others by planning a safe building or construction site.
- Equipment manufacturers – When an individual is injured as a result of faulty equipment, the manufacturer of the defective product could be held accountable. If the incident was caused by a lack of maintenance, the party tasked with this responsibility could be held liable.
Sometimes multiple parties could be held liable for a slip and fall accident at a construction site. When this is the case, there may be multiple insurance policies you may be able to file a claim against. Having a licensed attorney review your situation is highly recommended, as he or she can work to ensure you are pursuing the maximum compensation available.
What Causes Slip and Fall Accidents at Construction Sites?
There are several steps construction companies can take to prevent slip and fall accidents:
- Keeping floors and walkways clean and clear
- Cleaning spills immediately
- Installing warning signs in dangerous areas
- Keeping the area well lit
- Performing routine inspections for potential hazards
- Implementing procedures for regular maintenance and cleaning
Protect Your Rights by Contacting a Licensed Texas Attorney
Injured in a slip and fall accident at a construction site?
Compensation could be available to cover medical care, lost income from missing work, and pain and suffering.
At Anderson & Cummings, our attorneys understand the difficulties injured victims and their families face when a debilitating injury occurs. We have helped many injury victims recover compensation for their losses. We have a five-star Google rating – read some of the reviews from our clients.
Contact our firm today to schedule a complimentary initial consultation. We only bill you if we secure compensation on your behalf.
Call the licensed attorneys at Anderson & Cummings: (817) 920-9000.