Top 9 Causes of Construction Accidents

Construction sites are inherently dangerous workplaces, where accidents and injuries can happen despite the most cautious efforts. Long hours, physical labor, and exhaustion can contribute to hazardous conditions, increasing the likelihood of incidents.

At E&L, LLP, we believe no contractor or developer should prioritize profits over worker safety. If you were injured in a construction accident or lost a loved one due to unsafe practices, we are here to help you hold those responsible accountable.

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The 9 Most Common Causes of Construction Accidents

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), nearly 5,000 workers died from occupational injuries in 2020. Of these fatalities, construction workers accounted for almost half. The “Fatal Four” causes identified by OSHA include:

  • Falls
  • Being Struck by Objects
  • Electrocution
  • Being Caught In or Between Objects

Below are the most frequent causes of construction accidents and how they can affect workers:

  1. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Falls are the leading cause of death on construction sites, with 351 fatalities reported in 2020 alone. Accidents from heights—such as roofs, scaffolds, and ladders—can result in life-altering injuries.

Common causes of falls:

  • Defective scaffolding or ladders
  • Unmarked trenches and excavations
  • Cluttered or wet walkways
  • Faulty equipment

Employers are responsible for maintaining safe work environments and preventing hazards that lead to falls.

  1. Caught In or Between Accidents

Accidents where workers are caught in or between machinery, equipment, or structures can happen without warning. Examples include:

  • Trench collapses
  • Machinery tipping over
  • Workers pinned between structures or vehicles
  • Demolition-related wall collapses

These incidents can result in catastrophic injuries, such as amputations, crush injuries, or fatalities. Employers must ensure proper safety measures are in place, including trench reinforcements and machine safeguards.

 

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  1. Being Struck by Objects

Falling tools, construction materials, or machinery account for numerous injuries and deaths. High-rise construction projects, in particular, pose increased risks for workers below.

Safety measures include:

  • Providing safety helmets and high-visibility vests
  • Halting work during high winds
  • Training workers to operate machinery safely
  1. Electrocution

Electrocution accounts for approximately 7% of all construction fatalities. Workers near power lines or operating faulty equipment are especially at risk.

Common causes of electrocution:

  • Contact with live wires or transformers
  • Faulty tools or equipment
  • Inadequate insulation or grounding

Employers must identify and mitigate electrical hazards before work begins to protect workers from fatal injuries or long-term damage.

  1. On-Site Vehicle Accidents

Heavy equipment like bulldozers, dump trucks, and cranes can lead to severe injuries or fatalities if operated unsafely.

Causes include:

  • Distracted or intoxicated drivers
  • Improperly maintained vehicles
  • Lack of proper safety signage or training

Employers are responsible for ensuring vehicles are in good condition, properly equipped, and operated by trained personnel.

 

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  1. Trench Collapses

Excavations and trenches pose unique dangers, with collapses often resulting in serious injuries or suffocation.

Safety protocols include:

  • Sloping or shoring trench walls
  • Regular inspections for standing water or weak structures
  • Providing proper protective gear
  1. Toxic Substance Exposure

Construction workers are frequently exposed to hazardous materials like asbestos, formaldehyde, and lead. Prolonged exposure can lead to severe respiratory issues, skin disorders, and long-term illnesses.

Employers must provide:

  • Protective gear like gloves, masks, and goggles
  • Training on handling hazardous materials
  • Ventilated work areas
  1. Explosions and Fires

Construction sites often involve flammable substances, gas lines, and electrical wiring, creating a risk of explosions and fires.

Prevention measures include:

  • Proper storage of flammable materials
  • Risk assessments and fire safety training
  • Ensuring only qualified personnel handle hazardous equipment
  1. Repetitive Strain and Overexertion

Workers performing repetitive tasks, heavy lifting, or hard labor for extended periods can develop chronic injuries like joint damage or muscle strain. Overexertion can lead to accidents and long-term health problems.

 

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Common Construction Injuries

Construction accidents often result in severe and disabling injuries, including:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Spinal cord damage and paralysis
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Burns and electrocution injuries
  • Respiratory illnesses due to toxic exposure
  • Amputations and permanent disfigurement

How to Seek Compensation After a Construction Accident

  1. Workers’ Compensation:
    Most workers injured on the job can file a workers’ compensation claim for:
  • Medical expenses
  • Wage replacement
  • Survivor benefits for families of deceased workers
  1. Third-Party Lawsuits:
    If another contractor, site owner, or equipment manufacturer caused your accident, you may file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for:
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional trauma
  • Permanent disability
  1. Employer Liability:
    In rare cases, you may sue your employer directly if they acted with gross negligence or failed to carry workers’ compensation coverage.

Why Choose E&L, LLP?

When construction companies and developers cut corners, they put workers’ lives at risk. At E&L, LLP, we fight tirelessly to ensure injured construction workers and their families receive the compensation they deserve.

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(213) 213-0000

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