Millions of Americans work in the construction industry. These carpenters, crane operators, electricians, iron workers, laborers, plumbers, and roofers engage in physical labor that can often be dangerous. According to Yahoo Finance, three types of construction jobs are among the “10 Most Dangerous Jobs in the U.S.” The article includes iron and steel workers, laborers, and roofers in this at risk group. Some of the primary risks are using heavy machinery and falls (i). People who have been injured in this line of work should talk to a personal injury lawyer about their ability to file a workers’ compensation claim, third party lawsuit, or take other legal action.
Another risk common to the construction industry is failure to follow safety rules and regulations. On July 18, 2013, there was a gas explosion at a Johnston, RI landfill that was blamed on “multiple violations of the town ordinance and the Rhode Island state building codes.” No one was injured in the gas explosion but Johnston Mayor Joseph Polisena said that this was a “tragedy waiting to happen” (ii). Another tragic accident was reported on July 23, 2013 when a construction worker fell off scaffolding while working on the Mount Hope Bridge in Bristol, RI. The worker fell 70 feet and passed away just hours after the accident (iii).
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira stated, “Whenever I see these types of cases I am reminded of just how dangerous the construction industry can be. Often these workers are working with heavy machinery, great amounts of electric current, gases, and high heat. They often work at great heights in large buildings being constructed and they take big risks to do this work. These workers have legal options. They may have a valid workers’ compensation claim, social security disability claim, third party action, or construction accident lawsuit.”
The new construction infographic and video lets workers know that they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, scarring, disability, or other losses. d’Oliveira & Associates has successfully handled these cases in Rhode Island and Massachusetts and there are no legal fees unless a settlement or award is obtained.
Call the firm anytime at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form online for a free legal consultation.
Source:
- (i) Yahoo Finance, 10 Most Dangerous Jobs.
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/10-of-the-most-dangerous-jobs-in-the-u-s–191643548.html - (ii) Waste & Recycling News, July 18, 2013.
http://wasterecyclingnews.com/article/20130718/NEWS01/130719929/shoddy-construction-blamed-in-r-i-landfill-gas-explosion - (iii) WWLP 22 News, July 23, 2013.
http://www.wwlp.com/dpp/news/connecticut/bridge-worker-dies-in-ri-after-70-foot-fall