A construction site is one of the most hazardous work environments. With the use of heavy machinery, sharp and powerful tools, and exposure to dangerous chemicals, it is important that construction companies and employees adhere to strict safety precautions to avoid construction accidents, which can cause serious injury or even death. Although there is potential for accidents and injury at a construction site, one factor that has been shown to have one of the greatest risks for accident is fatigue. Our attorneys in Indianapolis have seen that construction accidents and fatigue often go hand-in-hand, with the dangers of a construction site increasing significantly when workers are not well rested and alert.
Construction Accidents Caused by Fatigue
Because of the unique environment of a construction site, it is important for all who are present to be completely alert and aware of their surroundings and the tasks they are performing. It is all too easy for a small mistake or miscalculation to result in a serious accident or injury. Without proper rest, it has been shown that people have a difficult time processing information and also show a significant reduction in reaction time. In fact, many studies have shown that the effect fatigue has on the brain can be compared to the effects of heavy drinking. Fatigue has a real physical and mental effect that can easily result in any of the following common construction site accidents:
- A slip or fall
- An accident involving construction equipment
- An accident involving heavy machinery
- A vehicle accident
Who Is at Fault?
If an accident, injury, or death is caused by fatigue, it is important to determine who is at fault. In these cases, it is important to work as quickly as possible so that the scene of the accident can be examined and any witnesses can be interviewed. In some cases, the fault may lie with the worker who made the reckless decision to show up for work fatigued. In other cases, the construction company itself may be at fault for unrealistic hours or failing to regulate the amount of hours worked by employees. Our attorneys are IOSHA certified and can examine all of the facts to determine who is at fault in a construction accident caused by fatigue.
Collecting Damages
If another person or party is shown to be at fault for a construction accident, our attorneys can ensure that our client’s rights are protected and that fair damages are rewarded. We help clients collect the maximum reward for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have been involved in a construction site accident and believe that it could have been prevented had another individual or party taken proper safety precautions, let us examine the details of your accident to determine if you have a valid lawsuit. Schedule an appointment to set up a case evaluation with one of our experienced construction accident attorneys. We are happy to advise you of your legal rights in collecting financial compensation for damages suffered.