Construction sites are notoriously hazardous, but when you add in pressure to perform under tight schedules on an already fatigued crew, the mental and physical strain can result in avoidable accidents. Heavy equipment, scaffolding , electricity, construction material trip hazards are but a few of the looming dangers. Worker fatigue has been known to escalate an already dangerous situation and while hundreds if not thousands of state and local regulations govern work site safety, when these rules aren’t followed it can result in injury, amputation and even death.
OSHA is still compiling statistics for 2016, but in 2015 they revealed 1,600 deaths in the natural resources, construction, and maintenance occupations. Poor oversight only makes the matter worse; serious injuries can occur because those tasked with ensuring safety fail to do so. While you may be covered by workers’ compensation, you will only be covered for a little over half (roughly 60%) of your current income level.
If recovery from an injury takes more than a few weeks, it wouldn’t be long before the average American would be in financial distress. According to a Federal Reserve report, nearly half of Americans couldn’t cover a $400 emergency expense without borrowing the money or selling something. Just image that your income was suddenly reduced to 60%, which is about what a temporary total disability benefit would pay per week while you are deemed disabled.
As the Lake Charles construction accident lawyers at N. Craig Richardson know, the injuries sustained in these accidents can be devastating for victims and their families. With that in mind, our Lake Charles legal team may help you recover additional damages from those responsible. Give us a call for a free consultation, your physical and financial health may depend on it.