No one can argue that working in construction is dangerous, and the risks are even much higher for those working on scaffolds. Construction workers deal with added dangers when their tasks are performed from elevated heights with unstable scaffold footing.
We at Ozols Law Firm know only too well the perils that construction workers deal with when working on high structures. We have represented many clients who were victims of scaffolding accidents and our injury lawyer’s work very hard to ensure they recover the highest compensation possible on their behalf.
We encourage you to talk to one of our scaffolding accident injury lawyers by filling out our online form so we can personally review your case. From the moment you retain our office, we will start a thorough investigation to determine who are at fault and make them accountable for your suffering. Contact our injury lawyers in San Diego for a free consultation and review of your case.
How common are Scaffolding Accidents?
There are over 2.3 million people working in the construction industry every year and many of them are injured or even die while doing their job. According to the United States Bureau of Statistics, in 2009, 29% of fall deaths from the workplace were from ladders or scaffolding.
There are several types of injuries arising from scaffolding accidents. The BLS and the OSHA have estimated around 4,500 injuries and 60 deaths related to working on a scaffolding annually. Most injuries result from falling off a scaffold or getting hit by an object while working on one.
- Falling off. Workers who are not properly equipped with safety gear or training have a much higher risk of falling from a scaffold.
- Improper assembly of equipment. The scaffold needs to be assembled properly otherwise it becomes very unstable. It could fail, leading to fall accidents. In addition, failure to properly assemble it may lead to crushed appendages from fittings.
- Falling objects. Equipment and debris may fall while a person works on scaffolding, or falling objects could knock them off. Wearing safety gear could lower the risks.
Scaffold Fall Injuries
Injuries resulting from falling off scaffolding are medically known as axial load injuries. The following are the most prevalent:
- Landing headfirst. Clearly, falling off headfirst is almost always fatal. Those who are fortunate enough to survive still end up with severe traumatic spinal cord or brain injury that will plague the victims for the rest of their life.
- Landing feet first. While not as deadly as falling head first, landing on your feet after falling off a scaffolding can cause fractures to the feet, legs, ankles and spine. It will still require costly medical treatments and long-term therapy.
Scaffolding related accidents usually result in injuries that require months of treatment and recovery. Many patients end up with permanent injuries, if they’re lucky to survive. This leads to loss of work/income, exorbitant medical costs and physical and emotional suffering.
Scaffolding falls and accidents may not completely be prevented but the construction company can lower the risk by ensuring all safety measures are implemented and strictly followed. Workers should wear proper gear and the scaffold should only be assembled by qualified persons. Following safety rules at all times can save lives.
Finding a Scaffolding Accident Injury Lawyer in San Diego
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a scaffolding accident, you may be entitled to compensation. At Ozols Law Firm, our lawyers have represented many clients who were victims of these kinds of accidents and we do our best to ensure we recover the maximum damages possible so that they will continue to live a comfortable life despite their injury or loss. Contact our office today so we can discuss in detail your legal options.