Wrongful Death Construction Accidents

Construction accidents are accidents occurring during construction, often referring to accidents at construction sites of large buildings and bridges. When it comes to construction accidents, if you have lost a loved one from a situation that could have been prevented, you may have a wrongful death claim.

Construction Accident Statistics

  • In 2005, 1,224 construction worker deaths were reported, the industry taking the lead in dangerous employment.
  • In 2009, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 4,757 fatal accidents in the workforce, and 751 of those deaths were construction workers.
  • Over one in every five workplace deaths occur on construction sites in the US.
  • The Bureau also reports that a construction accident is more likely to result in wrongful death than any other workplace accident.

In the event of a wrongful death due to a construction accident, it is important to investigate the site in the same condition as it was when the accident occurred. Construction sites are constantly changing, and owners may attempt to cover up a dangerous situation that caused the accident, or it may be fixed as part of the construction itself.

It is the utmost responsibility of a construction foreman or the workplace supervisor to make decisions that protect all the construction worker’s health and safety. After a devastating and fatal workplace accident, it becomes clear what action should have been taken. But by then, it may already be too late.

Falls are the predominant cause of construction accidents resulting in death from:

  • Head injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Neck injuries
  • Spine injuries

When someone dies on the job, their family may be entitled to more than one type of compensation. Workers’ compensation provides benefits for immediate family to compensate for lost wages, expenses, and the other losses that unfortunately come with the death of a loved one.

In the case of a wrongful death, if there is negligence, reckless behavior, or wrongful acts involved, this may also warrant a lawsuit. Wrongful death litigation for a construction accident can provide lump-sum compensation for end-of-life costs, lost wages, and other financial losses.

In cases of particularly outrageous wrongdoing, a jury may also call for punitive damages in order to send a message about acceptable conduct in the workplace.

Often, wrongful death damages cover medical and funeral bills, lost earnings, and retribution for pain and suffering. You should have the freedom to rest assured knowing that your family will be provided for in the absence of your loved one. It is crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to retribution, but your claim must be filed before the statute of limitation expires.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one due to a construction accident, you may be eligible for damages. Call the Sweeney Law Firm and let us review the facts. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless there is a settlement or recovery of funds made on your behalf.