Sugar Land Construction Accident Lawyer

Skilled Counsel for Injured Construction Workers in Texas

Construction is one of the most dangerous fields, according to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). Based off information presented by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), one in five worker fatalities in 2014 occurred at construction sites. Falls, electrocution, struck by object and caught-in/between were the "Fatal Four" leading causes of construction worker deaths, accounting for more than half of fatalities. Falls accounted for nearly 40% of these construction fatalities.

Construction accidents may be caused by worker negligence, improper implementation of construction safety guidelines or defective equipment. In any such scenario, we at The West Law Firm may be able to help.

Our team represents construction workers and passersby in Sugar Land and the surrounding areas who have been injured in such incidents as:

• Falls from heights
• Struck by moving/falling objects
• Electrocution
• Construction equipment defects
• Caught-in/between accidents
• Scaffolding and ladder accidents
• Construction machinery accidents
• Unsafe construction sites

Injured on the job? Contact for our online form or call The West Law Firm at tel:(281) 277-1500 now for a free consultation and protect your rights.

Common Injuries in Construction Accidents

Construction sites are inherently dangerous, and workers often face severe injuries. Here are some of the most common:

• Broken Bones: Heavy machinery or falling objects can cause fractures.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): A blow to the head, often from falling objects, can result in life-altering brain injuries.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls from heights or heavy machinery accidents may cause permanent spinal damage.
• Internal Injuries: Serious accidents like vehicle collisions or equipment malfunctions can cause internal bleeding or organ damage.
• Burns: Electrical accidents or exposure to chemicals and fire can cause significant burns.
• Amputations: Dangerous equipment and machinery can result in the loss of limbs.

Chronic Conditions:

• Repetitive Stress Injuries: Constant use of tools or heavy lifting can lead to long-term joint and muscle problems.
• Hearing Loss: Continuous exposure to loud noises from machinery can cause permanent hearing impairment.
• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Frequent heavy lifting, bending, or awkward positions can strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Lawsuits

Understanding how to seek compensation after a construction accident is crucial. Here’s the difference between workers' compensation and a personal injury lawsuit:

• Workers' Compensation:
  • Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
  • Available regardless of fault but provides limited compensation (does not cover pain and suffering).
  • No need to prove fault, but you cannot sue your employer.
• Personal Injury Lawsuit:
  • Can be filed against third parties like equipment manufacturers or contractors.
  • Allows the pursuit of additional damages for pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
  • Can potentially result in higher compensation, but fault must be proven.

Third-Party Liability in Construction Accidents

In many cases, someone other than your employer might be responsible for your injuries. Here's who can be held accountable:

• General Contractors and Subcontractors: Negligent safety practices or improper training can lead to accidents.
• Property Owners: If unsafe conditions on the site contributed to the accident.
• Equipment Manufacturers: Defective machinery or tools that cause harm.
• Suppliers: Providing faulty or substandard materials that lead to accidents.

In these cases, third-party lawsuits can be filed to seek additional compensation.

Fatal Construction Accidents: Wrongful Death Claims

Tragically, some construction accidents result in death. In these cases, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims.

• Compensation for Families:
  • Funeral expenses.
  • Lost future earnings the deceased would have contributed.
  • Emotional distress caused by the loss.

Texas law allows families to seek justice and financial compensation for the wrongful death of a loved one in construction accidents.

Construction Equipment Defects: Dangerous & Deadly

In an inherently dangerous environment like a construction site, a defective piece of equipment can easily cause a catastrophe. Defective equipment is a primary focus of our firm's construction accident practice. A tool, machine or even piece of safety equipment can cause catastrophic injury if it is poorly designed or has a manufacturing defect that impacts its effectiveness. We can help with construction equipment defects involving scaffolding, nail guns, excavators, bulldozers, cranes, forklifts, saws and cutting blades, and more.

With a background in engineering along with Board Certification in personal injury law, Attorney S. Scott West is positioned to provide the highest quality legal counsel in these complex industrial accidents. He understands how to fight manufacturers, distributors, and other at-fault parties to seek compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, and the many other losses the injured experience. Whether it's a construction accident or another type of industrial accident, Attorney West has the expertise to navigate these challenging cases and help clients get the justice they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What should I do immediately after a construction accident?
  • Get medical help: Your health and safety are the top priority. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if necessary.
  • Report the accident: Notify your supervisor or the site manager about the incident.
  • Document the scene: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions.
  • Gather witness information: If there are witnesses, get their contact details.
• Can I file a lawsuit if I was injured in a construction accident at work?
  Yes, if the accident was caused by a third party—such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner—you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. Workers’ compensation benefits may cover some costs, but a lawsuit can help you recover additional damages, including pain and suffering.
• How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in Texas?
  In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, deadlines can vary depending on the specifics of the case, so it's best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
• What is the difference between workers’ compensation and a personal injury lawsuit?
  Workers’ compensation provides coverage for medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation, regardless of who is at fault. However, it doesn’t compensate for pain and suffering. A personal injury lawsuit allows you to seek additional damages if a third party’s negligence caused your injury.
• Can I receive compensation if I’m partially at fault for the accident?
  Yes, Texas follows comparative negligence laws, meaning you can still recover compensation if you are partially at fault for the accident. However, the amount you can recover will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
• What types of injuries are common in construction accidents?
  Construction accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, including:
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Burns and amputations
  • Internal injuries.
  • Chronic conditions like hearing loss and repetitive stress injuries
• How do I prove that a third party is responsible for my construction accident?
  You will need to show that the third party was negligent and that their actions directly led to your injury. This might involve evidence like maintenance records, accident reports, or witness testimonies. An experienced construction accident lawyer can help you gather and present the necessary evidence.

Get the compensation you deserve. Reach out to The West Law Firm today at tel:(281) 277-1500 to discuss your construction accident claim.