Getting struck by a falling object on the job can result in major injuries or even even fatalities. These types of accidents are sadly common in construction sites. However, they may occur in any type of workplace or in any industry. Some of these incidents may involve smaller objects, while others may involve large objects, which have the potential to cause fatal injuries. Often times, workers are looking at catastrophic injuries that could leave them with permanent injuries or lifelong disabilities.
The experienced Los Angeles work injury lawyers at Greenberg and Ruby Injury Attorneys, APC represent the rights of injured workers and their families. We understand the specific challenges you face in the aftermath of a workplace accident. We will work diligently to protect your rights and help you receive maximum compensation for your losses.
Who is at Risk for Struck-by Accidents?
Those who work in the construction industry are most at-risk when it comes to struck-by accidents. In fact, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) classified struck-by accidents among its "Fatal Four" - or the four main causes of fatal accidents in the construction industry. Workers in construction, industrial settings such as factories and warehouses, as well as those in other settings may face a number of risks relating to falling objects including:
- Debris and building materials fall from above
- Falling tools or equipment
- Cranes and heavy machinery
- Accidents involving demolition of buildings and other structures
- Materials being hoisted by lifts
To avoid these types of accidents, OSHA has regulations in place requiring employers to properly train their workers and provide them with personal protective equipment such as hard hats and other head protection. In construction sites, construction companies, contractors, property owners and others have a responsibility to take reasonable safety measures to prevent struck-by accidents.
You may suffer a struck-by injury at a construction site even if you are not a worker. For example, anyone can suffer injuries at an unsafe work environment as a result of being struck by a falling object from a construction site including visitors to the worksite or passersby. For example, individuals may be hit by falling debris, tools or structural materials such as bricks even if they are in the vicinity and not exactly at the worksite.
Struck-by Injuries
Victims struck by falling objects may suffer a number of injuries including:
- Traumatic brain injuries or head injuries
- Neck or back injuries (spinal cord trauma)
- Burn injuries or electrocution if they are struck by hot objects or live wires
- Crushing injuries if large objects drop on them
- Broken bones or fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Lacerations or cuts that could cause fatal bleeding
Who Can Be Held Liable If You Are Struck by a Falling Object?
These types of accidents are often caused by negligence on that part of several potential parties. Construction companies and other parties are required to exercise due care and take the necessary precautions to avoid objects from falling below and injuring workers or others. Failing to exercise due care could potentially increase the risk of such accidents. Examples of parties who can be held liable for struck-by injuries involving falling objects include:
- Property or building owners who fail to take safety precautions or allow dangerous conditions to exists on their property.
- General contractors, sub-contractors or construction companies that fail to take safety precautions such as securing tools at a worksite.
- Crane companies or crane operators who fail to work with care resulting in dropped loads or falling debris.
Third-Party Liability
If you were struck by a falling object at a construction site as the result of negligence by a party other than your employer, you may be able to file a third-party claim or personal injury lawsuit against that party. In such cases, you may be able to seek compensation that workers' comp benefits may not be able to provide such as pain and suffering and loss of earning capacity.
For example, if your workplace accident was caused by a defective product,, the manufacturer of the defective product can be held liable for your injuries, damages and losses as well. It is important to remember that third-party lawsuits are worth significantly more than workers' comp benefits. An experienced Los Angeles work injury lawyer will be able to advise you regarding your legal rights and options, such as if and how much you can sue your employer for after a work injury.
Damages in a Struck by Falling Object Accident
If you are filing a lawsuit, as the plaintiff, you must prove that the defendant had a legal duty of care toward you, that they breached this duty, which caused your injuries and damages. You can seek compensation for damages including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Future medical treatment and care
- Pain and suffering
- Lost earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Loss of life's enjoyment
- Loss of consortium
How a Work Injury Lawyer Can Help
At Greenberg and Ruby Injury Attorneys, APC, our work injury lawyers work closely with injured victims and families to determine what impact the injuries have had on their lives and the support they may need for years to come. We strive to help victims and families secure maximum possible compensation so they can live the best quality of life possible and receive the treatment and care they need. If you have been injured on the job, call us at (323) 782-0535 to schedule a no-cost consultation and case evaluation.
