According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the construction industry is considered one of the most dangerous jobs in America. Serious and often fatal injuries occur on a daily basis. In fact, approximately two construction-related deaths occur each day in the United States and account for one in every five work-related fatalities. Despite work safety regulations and policies enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), construction sites remain hazardous places to work.
Most construction injuries result from what is known in the industry as the Fatal Four, which include slips, trips, and falls; electrocution; getting hit by heavy or moving objects; and getting caught in between objects.
What is surprising is that most of these construction accidents are preventable if safety policies are followed and construction equipment is maintained. OSHA violations most commonly reported at construction sites include those relating to fall protection, scaffolding, ladders, machine guarding, respiratory protections, and electrical requirements. Though OSHA enforces safety regulations, they are overwhelmed by short staff and budget cuts, so routine inspections may not be happening as often as required.
Four Types of Construction Accidents
Almost 40 percent of all construction accident injuries and deaths occur from falls. Improper scaffolding, poor maintenance of work platforms and floors, overhanging steel bars, unprotected openings or sides to elevated surfaces, and improper use of ladders are generally responsible for the most serious and deadly falls. Proper safety training and protective equipment such as harnesses can greatly reduce the amount of falls at construction sites.
Over ten percent of all injuries and deaths on construction sites can be attributed to being struck by another object such as a moving vehicle, masonry walls, falling tools and other objects. Brain injuries as well as injuries to the head, neck, and back are common in construction accidents caused by being struck by an object. Injuries of this nature can render a construction worker unable to work for an extended period, or leave them permanently disabled.
Electrocution injuries resulting from construction workers coming into contact with high voltage wires are responsible for almost nine percent of serious accidents in the construction industry. A lack of ground fault, improper use of electrical wires and components, and electric shock and burns can leave a worker with amputated limbs, scarring and disfigurement, and sudden death.
The final aspect of the fatal four happens when construction workers become wedged between objects. Almost three percent of all construction injuries and deaths occur when workers get stuck between objects that are poorly placed or improperly maintained. Unsafe access/egress and spoil-pile placements, as well as poorly maintained trench and protective equipment, are the leading cause of these construction accidents.
Steps to Take if Injured
It is imperative for construction workers to report and address injuries suffered at the construction site immediately. Workers should seek medical attention, document the accident and report it to their employer. Moreover, whenever possible an injured construction worker must be sure to obtain witnesses to give details about the accident. It is advised that someone take pictures of the injury and the accident site to substantiate a claim.
Lastly, an experienced construction accident lawyer should be contacted as soon as possible. An experienced and reputable personal injury attorney can help pursue compensation for medical bills, loss of wages, as well as pain and suffering.
Testimonials
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This team is incredible. They are friendly and knowledgeable. I appreciate everything they have done for me and would recommend them to anyone. Overall great experience
Testimonial from Paul D. -
My case settled recently after lasting 4 years. Grungo and Colarulo’s law firm were able to secure a large settlement award for my slip and fall accident. This money will help secure my future for the permanent injury I received as a result of the slip and fall. Everyone was very caring, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. Christine Lafferty is an excellent litigation lawyer. I highly recommend using them if you have been injured or in an accident. I hope I am never in a situation again to need their services, but I know who to go to if I, or any of my family members are ever injured. Thanks Grungo and Colarulo and staff for your compassionate service!
Testimonial from Pamela A. -
Thank you so much Grungo and Colarulo for helping me with my case. Special thanks to Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team. Erica Domingo and her team was very nice and helped me tremendously throughout my case like more than one year and half. They gave me the right advice and guided me through every step of my case. They gave me prompt and clear responses to all my questions. In addition, Erica and her team provided me with all the what if scenarios so that I can have a clear vison of the steps ahead.
I would definitely recommend Grungo and Colarulo.
Thanks again Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team
Testimonial from Ahmed A. -
My wife and I reached out to Grungo Colarulo in 2020 for advise on a legal matter. After a meeting with the Attorney and Paralegal, we decided to go forward with a case. This case required a lot of documentation, and expert review of the documentation which was aquired. Throughout the process, we were kept up to date monthly, and Grungo Colarulo was always responsive to any questions that we had. The entire staff at Grungo Colarulo are very professional, caring, and willing to go the extra mile. This firm is a definite recommend!
Testimonial from Patrick G. -
I left five (5) stars only because that’s as many as I could leave. If I could, I would have left 100 stars. Bob & Christine are the absolute best! My settlement far exceeded what I ever imagined. They are professional, friendly, and really listened to what I had to say. They kept me up to date with the progress of my case every step of the way. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Testimonial from Sheila L. -
Very professional, communicates well, makes me feel like they have my best interest at heart, and overall just a great company. Christine and the whole team has been on top of everything. Would definitely recommend!! 10/10
Testimonial from Michael M. -
First and foremost I would like to thank the whole team at Grungo Colarulo!! In addition to that, Stephanie & Riley & Drenna have done such an outstanding job taking care of me in such a difficult and low point of my life. I was in a bad car accident & did not know how to move forward with what to do and how to process. Those ladies were there every step, every inch, every mile & beyond with helping me when I had no idea how to navigate. I will forever be thankful for them and for the outcome of my case! If you ever need assistance I highly recommend this practice!!! Beyond professional, helpful, precise, caring, knowledgeable & humble!!!
Testimonial from Rachel F. -
From my first phone call to the end of my case this firm was on the ball!! Always responsive and professional and kept me up to date and informed. This is my firm for any future needs!
Testimonial from Jeffrey F. -
This was my first time ever having to have a lawyer for an automobile accident. From the beginning they took care of everything. They put me at ease so I could concentrate on my medical needs. Everyone I spoke to during the process were always extremely pleasant and knowledgeable.
Thank you to Grungo Colarulo for representing me and getting the settlement you did to help me move forward. I would highly recommend Grungo Colarulo to anyone who wants outstanding legal representation.Testimonial from Pat G. -
This team has been nothing but gentle an generous. Being as this was my first time dealing with a worker’s compensation case I was lost and nervous. But the Grungo Colarulo team has made me feel as comfortable as possible. My needs were addressed with care in a timely fashion. I knew what was going on every step of the way.
Oh, did I mention, WE WON …This teams knowledge of the industry is TOP NOTCH!
Testimonial from Aminah M. -
A dear family friend referred us to a young attorney named Rich Grungo, Jr. We wanted answers and if necessary, justice for our father. From day one of a five-year journey, Mr. Rich Grungo, Jr. made our family and our pain his own. The man never stopped working for us. He kept us informed every step of the way. Questions were answered quickly and with great compassion and expertise. Even though Rich was always busy, he was never too busy for us. We always felt like we were his only clients
Testimonial from Mickey -
I had the opportunity to observe Mr. Grungo work in this case, both in the courtroom on the technical matters of the motions and also as his presentation to the jury in opening and presenting witnesses as well as utilizing animations… and drawings and films that were necessary for a proper understanding of the case…At all times during the presentation, Mr. Grungo operated mostly without notes and questioned the witnesses in a conversational manner which made it most effective. **
New Jersey Superior Court Judge Testimonial -
Thank you for everything. I honestly felt like you treated my son like he was your own son, for that I am grateful. I would recommend your services to anyone. Thanks for being so awesome to both of us.
Testimonial from HD -
It was a pleasure working with Bill. He constantly kept me informed. I would recommend Bill and his firm to anybody I know. They’ll be in good hands.
Testimonial from Gregory -
I had the opportunity to retain Mr. Colarulo for a vehicle accident I encountered. I give him my highest recommendation for anyone in need of an excellent Personal Injury Attorney. Not only does he have an in depth knowledge of the legal field, but he emanates a sense of trust-worthiness that makes you feel secure during the entire process. Mr. Colarulo has the knowledge, drive and enthusiasm that will get the job done for you. He comes highly recommended.
Testimonial from Denise -
Hi Rich, Well I’m on my way up to college to finish packing my son’s stuff up and to go to his Graduation tomorrow. It’s hard to believe how fast and how slow, at the same time 5 years can go by. I was just thinking of you as I am getting ready to leave and wanted to thank you once again for everything you have done for my son’s future. You are a good and just man. God Bless to you and your family.
Be Well,
Testimonial from Bob
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