HOUSTONCONSTRUCTION ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
An almost infinite number of intricate state and federal regulations surrounding construction work-sites exist. There are many complex liability issues that pertain to construction accidents and lawsuits. Furthermore, there is a fine network of contracts and duties that exist between contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and manufacturers. Navigating the course of a construction accident settlement almost necessitates the use of a Houston construction accident attorney.
What Are Some Common Causes of Construction Accidents in Houston?
Construction accidents can occur for a number of reasons. OSHA requires employers to obtain certain permits and maintain workplace safety in compliance with state and federal laws.
Negligence, product defects, and failure to adhere to safety policies and procedures can result in avoidable construction site accidents.
Some of the leading causes of construction accidents in Houston include:
- Insufficient training
- Poor safety precautions and oversight
- Crane accidents
- Hoist accidents
- Harness accidents
- Collapsed structures
- Improper use or maintenance of equipment
- Compressed gases
- Mechanical hazards
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Falls from elevations
- Defective equipment
- Fires and explosions
- Falling objects
- Welding accidents
Cell tower accidents are also becoming an increasing concern. Along with an increasing demand for faster networks, federal and state regulations are lax. This leads to dangerous conditions for construction workers.
Who Can Be Held Liable For Construction Accident Injuries in Texas?
If an employer carries worker’s compensation insurance, they are protected from personal injury lawsuits. However, if the injury is intentional or egregious, the law does not bar a lawsuit against the employer. Despite this, it is more common to file claims against a third-party.
Some of the parties that may be liable for a construction accident include:
- Construction site owners. Liability typically hinges on the degree of control the owner has over the premises, compared to the degree of control over the work being conducted itself.
- General and sub-contractors. Under OSHA, general and sub-contractors have the duty to provide workers with a reasonably safe work-site. They must also warn of any hazards at the site or the job. When an injury occurs, the failure of a contractor or subcontractor to perform these duties may allow an injured worker to seek compensation from the general or subcontractor.
- Prime contractors. Prime contractors are responsible for work that is identified in their contracts. They are also responsible for any work they delegate to subcontractors so long as they have exclusive responsibility for such subcontractors.
- Architects and engineers. There are some cases in which architects and engineers are responsible for the safety of construction workers. In order to determine if architects or engineers are liable for an injury, it is important to establish which duties were outlined by their contract with the construction company.
- Manufacturers. Any party in the chain of distribution of a defective product, including manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers, may be held liable if a defect in their product causes an injury.
What Damages Can I Recover from a Houston Construction Accident Injury?
In a construction injury case, you can recover damages for your lost wages, medical bills, as well as less tangible “pain and suffering” damages.
Recoverable damages in a construction accident include:
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of past and future earnings
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future medical costs
- Personal or household expenses as a result of your injuries
How Do I Calculate Damages of Construction Accidents in Houston?
The amount of damages you recover will be a combination of medical bills and other expenses, as well as wages you may have earned while you are recovering. However, as you can see, there are also potential damages that are more difficult to calculate.
It’s impossible, really, to put a price tag on pain and suffering. For this reason, if you are seeking compensation in a third-party personal injury claim, it is essential that you have an Houston construction accident attorney experienced in personal injury. An experienced attorney like Trey Barton can use their personal experience and knowledge of precedent to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
To schedule a free consultation, call 832-916-2526 or fill out the online form today!
DEVOTED TO PROTECTING PEOPLE FOCUSED ON PROVIDING PROFESSIONAL LEGAL REPRESENTATION TO INJURY VICTIMS
When the insurance company calls you, call me! The insurance company is interested in resolving your case for the smallest amount of money possible. They don’t care about you, your family, your injury, or what it will take to make you whole. They want to resolve your case before you have a chance to speak to a personal injury attorney that knows what you are entitled to recover. Act now to protect your legal rights! Contact me today for a free case evaluation.
