Falling Debris Injuries And The Impact They Have

Falling debris can cause a variety of severe injuries on a job site, including head and brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, neck and back injuries, broken bones, and even death in some cases. So it is in your best interest to know what these falling debris injuries can do and how they can affect you physically, mentally, and financially.

The Cause Of Falling Debris Accidents

Falling debris is one of the most common hazards construction workers face on a site. There are a variety of reasons these injuries can happen. Lack of proper training, improperly stacked materials, and equipment malfunction are some of the leading causes, but the following also top the list:

• Lack of warning signs
• Improperly secured loads
• Failure to implement the use of appropriate safety devices
• Misuse of equipment
• Structural collapse due to faulty materials
• Failure to follow safety protocols

Debris In Public Places

You also have to keep in mind that it isn't just the construction workers who are at risk of falling debris. Passersby are at risk as well. For example, a pedestrian in New York City was killed when she was hit by falling debris from a 17-story building.

It is the legal responsibility of the building owner to ensure that the building is safe; this is why building codes are put into place. It helps prevent these types of accidents from occurring and injuring or even killing construction workers and pedestrians alike.

Falling Debris Injuries

When you are hit by falling debris, it can cause a long list of problems, from broken bones and crushed limbs to traumatic brain injury and even paralysis. Not only do these injuries bring the victim immense physical pain, but they also cause mental anguish and financial suffering.

These accidents can quickly cause the medical bills to pile up, and some find it hard to keep up without falling into massive debt in the process. So if you or someone you know has been injured because of falling debris, you should contact a personal injury attorney to see if you are eligible for compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages incurred.

Liability For Falling Debris Injuries

Who is liable for these injuries? No matter the situation, you will find that there is always someone who is going to be responsible for these injuries, whether it is the contractor or the owner of the site. To determine liability, contracts have to be examined to see if anyone breached their duty.

For example, if the construction company didn't take the necessary steps to keep the site safe, they may be held liable for falling debris injuries. Another example is if the site wasn't adequately marked and yet pedestrians were allowed to get close to the area. This can also result in injury and the construction company being liable in the claim.

Filing A Personal Injury Claim

If you are a construction worker who has been injured as the result of falling debris, you may be able to seek out compensation through worker's compensation. However, if you are a pedestrian or a bystander, you can file a third-party injury claim and seek compensation for damages such as physical pain and suffering, emotional and mental anguish, diminished earning capacity, past and future medical expenses, and past and future loss of wages.

If you feel you have a case, contact your personal injury attorney today to go over the details of the case and the circumstances of the accident. They can help determine if you are eligible for compensation for your injuries and other damages.