The Worst Types of Chicago Construction Accidents

Almost every type of Chicago construction accident has the potential to be fatal or life-altering. However, some accidents are clearly worse than others. Whether you’re a construction worker or not, it makes sense to become aware of these hazards. Those who have been injured in major construction accidents may want to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago.

Crane Collapses 

A crane collapse is supposed to be an incredibly rare occurrence in the construction industry. However, it seems as though these incidents are occurring at an alarming rate in the modern era. A crane collapse can be particularly dangerous because of its capacity to injure numerous workers at once. When a crane topples to the ground, it may crush or impact dozens of workers down below. It might also injure or kill members of the general public. Crane collapses are often caused by negligence and miscalculations.

 Scaffolding Collapses 

Scaffolding collapses are similar to crane collapses in that they involve major structures falling to the ground. However, scaffolding often carries numerous workers. In contrast, a crane usually only carries a solitary crane operator. In theory, this makes scaffolding collapses more dangerous because of their ability to injure or kill numerous workers operating on the structure. Scaffolding collapses are often caused by safety violations and poor weight calculations.

 Explosions 

Another type of accident that can affect numerous workers is an explosion or fire. These incidents are also more common than many assume, as construction sites are often filled with explosive or flammable substances. A minor mistake can detonate these substances, causing injuries and fatalities throughout a wide radius. Those who survive these incidents may be left with disfiguring burns and other lasting ailments. Safe storage of flammable materials can help prevent these accidents.

 Trench Collapses 

Another type of collapse involves a trench. Workers operating in trenches can be literally buried alive during collapses, and these individuals may suffocate beneath tons of soil and other materials. This is why safety is so important during work in trenches. Trench walls must be properly reinforced with boxes and other structures. Workers must also have a safe exit route if a collapse begins to occur.

 Electrocutions 

Another severe type of construction accident is an electrocution. Once again, this type of accident has the potential to affect multiple workers at the same time. For example, workers standing in a puddle may all be electrocuted at the same time if a live wire touches the water. The chances of surviving electrocution are incredibly slim, as these incidents cause severe burns and neurological damage.

How Can a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help After a Construction Accident? 

A Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help in many ways after a construction accident. If you have survived one of these incidents, you might need help pursuing fair compensation for medical bills and lost income. If you have lost a family member due to a fatal construction accident, on the other hand, a workers’ comp lawyer can help you pursue death benefits. For more information about these options, contact Connolly Injury Law today.

Sources: 

osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/construction_hazards_qc.pdf

assp.org/education/the-osha-fatal-four