In Pennsylvania, construction accidents contribute the second highest number of fatalities each year, following only transportation and warehousing which ranked the deadliest of occupations.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 25 deaths in the construction industry in 2013 with 17 of those fatalities attributed to specialty trades.

Statistics indicate that 78 percent of those injured on the job worked for wages and salaries, making them eligible for workers’ compensation for any lost wages and injuries.

Types of Pennsylvania Construction Accident Claims

If you have suffered a workplace injury on a construction job, you may be entitled to file more than one type of claim depending on the circumstances of your injury. If you were employed by the company performing the work, you are eligible for workers’ comp in Pennsylvania, even if you were partially or completely responsible for the accident.

If you find that a third party was responsible for your injury, such as a contractor, heavy equipment company or machine manufacturer, you may be able to file a personal injury or product liability lawsuit against the third party.

If you had a loved one who died after injuries they sustained in a construction accident, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim against those that are responsible. Different people can be held liable for an accident on a construction site including the construction site owner, general and sub-contractors, primary contractors, architects, engineers and manufacturers of equipment.

OSHA Rights

The United States Department of Labor Office of Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has federal guidelines regarding the rights employees have to a safe working environment. Under federal law administered by OSHA, you have the right to file a complaint without fear of retaliation or discrimination if you feel your workplace is unsafe.

Your employer is required to supply you with information about hazards, safety procedures and the OSHA standards that apply to your particular workplace. You have the right to receive copies of any tests performed to determine what hazards exist and to review records of any workplace injury that has occurred. You are also given the right to receive a copy of any medical records received by your employer. OSHA reserves the right to inspect the workplace at any time.

Common Causes of Pennsylvania Construction Accidents

In Philadelphia and other areas of the state, construction accidents have many different causes. However, some of the most common causes of accidents include:

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, or if a loved one has died from injuries sustained in such an accident in Philadelphia or other area of the state, contact Lundy Law to see what rights you may have.

We can help guide you through the complicated workers’ compensation process and advise you on what steps should be taken next. Complete the simple free consultation form on our website or give us a call at 1-800-Lundy Law today to learn what types of compensation you may be eligible for after a construction accident.