Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces in America. Unfortunately, even innocent passers-by can be injured if workers and supervisors negligently or carelessly handle construction equipment, chemicals, machines or tools. Other hazards include falling objects.

Causes of common construction injuries include:

• Falls from scaffolding, roofs and other heights
• Impacts from falling objects
• Accidents with machinery or equipment
• Burns
• Electrocution
• Inadequate fencing or other security
• Exposure to toxic chemicals
• Inadequate safety equipment and training
• Intrusion of construction equipment into roads and sidewalks

State and Federal laws mandate strict workplace safety standards for construction sites, including required protective gear and the regulation of exposure to dangerous chemicals. All too often, those laws are partially or completely ignored; the preventable result can be a life-altering injury, or a fatality.

If that accident was caused by careless or negligent behavior, you have the right to hold the responsible parties legally liable for resulting damages, and a lawsuit may be brought. Compensation can be sought for your medical bills, lost wages and other financial costs of your injury, your physical pain, emotional anguish, permanent disability or wrongful death. If you are a construction worker collecting workers’ compensation payments, you may still be able to commence an action against an employer, subcontractor, or the maker of faulty equipment responsible for its role in your accident.