Construction sites can be dangerous, and when equipment malfunctions, the risks become even greater. Many construction workers suffer injuries and fatalities each year due to defective tools and machinery.
Generally, on-the-job accidents are covered by workers’ compensation. However, in some cases, you may be able to pursue a third-party claim. If you or a loved one have been harmed by faulty construction equipment, it’s important to contact the Law Offices of Tim Misny as soon as possible.
Common causes of construction equipment injuries
Numerous factors can lead to injuries caused by defective equipment, including:
- Defective auto parts: Construction vehicles may be involved in accidents due to malfunctioning brakes, lights, steering, tires or other safety failures.
- Defective power tools: Handheld power tools, such as saws, drills and nail guns, can cause severe lacerations or death if they are defective.
- Electrical defects: Poor wiring or inadequate insulation can lead to electrical shocks, fires, burns and electrocution.
- Inadequate guards: Machines with blades, pinch points, drill bits, conveyors, compressors and other potential risks should have proper shields and guards to protect workers from unsafe contact. Guards are also essential to control material movement and prevent debris from flying into the air.
- Lack of shut-off switches: Heavy machinery on construction sites poses significant risks, and entanglement injuries are also a concern. Properly equipped emergency shut-off switches, buttons or automatic trip fuses can prevent these accidents. A lack of shut-off options could be a design defect.
- Manufacturing defects: Some equipment may suffer defects after the design process, compromising their functionality or exposing workers to hazardous conditions.
What to do after a construction site injury
If you’re injured on the job, be sure to seek immediate medical treatment and file a report with your employer. This will ensure that you get workers’ compensation benefits for lost wages and medical bills while you’re recovering. Save all documentation, and consider keeping a written diary of your pain levels, treatments, medications, challenges and more. Photos of the accident site, injuries and your healing process can also be helpful to support your claim.
Next, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny. We can evaluate your workers’ compensation and third-party injury claim. If you’re eligible to file a third-party claim, we’ll help you recover additional compensation for your injuries.
Discuss your case with an Ohio attorney
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your workers’ compensation and third-party personal injury claim. If you or a loved one were injured on the job, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.