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How can scaffolding accidents be prevented on construction sites?

The construction industry is an important pillar of the economy, serving as a crucial driver of economic growth and development. Yet, it poses numerous risks for workers due to the inherently hazardous nature of construction activities. 

Among these risks, scaffolding accidents are unfortunately common on construction sites, posing a significant threat to the safety and well-being of workers. To prevent such accidents, several safety measures can be implemented:

  • Proper assembly: Only trained and qualified personnel should install scaffolding, following the manufacturer’s guidelines and conducting regular inspections for stability and integrity.
  • Fall protection: Scaffolds are usually erected to help workers access elevated work areas and providing adequate fall protection systems such as guardrails, safety nets or personal fall arrest systems is essential.
  • Proper scaffolding equipment used: Toeboards, guardrails and stable platforms should be in place to prevent objects from falling and to provide a secure working environment for workers.

The provision of personal protective equipment can help prevent injuries by ensuring that workers are properly equipped with gear such as helmets, gloves and safety harnesses, further enhancing their safety while working on scaffolding.

What to do if injured in a scaffolding accident

If you are a construction worker injured in a scaffolding accident due to negligence by a third party, it’s important to:

  • Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained.
  • Report the accident to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible.
  • Preserve evidence by taking photos, gathering witness statements and keeping records of the accident.
  • Follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan and attend all necessary medical appointments.
  • Keep records of all medical expenses, lost wages and other financial losses resulting from the accident.

It is important to seek legal guidance to better understand your options for pursuing compensation and holding the negligent party accountable for your injuries and losses resulting from the scaffolding accident.

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36-year-old laborer for landscaping company fractured wrist when fellow employee hit him with truck. Claimant received in excess of $30,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for total disability and medical expenses and settled with automobile insurance company for fellow employee for $95,000.

1989 workers’ compensation claim settled for $125,000. Claimant originally sustained a low back injury when she slipped and fell at local grocery store resulting in low back surgery in 1989. Several years later, claimant exacerbated her low back injury. Claim was reopened and settled with carrier for $125,000 in 2006.

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34-year-old male roofer sustained multiple injuries to his shoulder, neck, back and hip when he fell from roof during work. Claimant was provided workers’ compensation benefits in excess of $100,000 and settled remaining claims for an additional $55,000.

40-year-old male working for cleaning company sustained neck and low back injuries when he fell on defective staircase while cleaning local museum. Claimant recovered over $95,000 in workers’ compensation benefits and resolved claim against museum for $85,000.

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24-year-old waitress sustained back injury while working at Outback Steak House. Workers’ compensation insurance company initially denied the claim. After a series of informal hearings, carrier accepted claim paying medical expenses and total disability benefits. In addition to those benefits paid, claim settled for an additional $75,000.

Delivery truck driver sustained right wrist fracture in rear-end motor vehicle accident while in the course of his employment. Claimant recovered in excess of $40,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for medical expenses and total disability benefits. Claimant settled case against at-fault driver for $105,000.

22-year-old male working as stocking clerk at “big box” retailer sustained herniated disc in low back. Workers’ compensation carrier refused to accept the claim. After formal workers’ compensation, hearing commissioner ordered carrier to pay over $35,000 in past total disability benefits and pay for surgery and all related medical expenses. Case settled for an additional $35,000 for a total recovery in excess of $100,000.

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CT Transit bus driver sustained torn meniscus in collision with another vehicle. Claims made against at-fault driver, workers’ compensation carrier and client’s underinsured motorist policy. All claims settle for a recovery in excess of $100,000.

68-year-old woman sustained neck and back injuries in rear-end collision and required extended course physical therapy, but was not a surgical candidate. Case settled for $100,000 prior to filing suit.

34-year-old woman sustained concussion and neck and back injuries in hit-and-run accident on a New York highway. Claimant settled uninsured motorist claim for her $100,000 policy limits.

80-year-old woman sustained right foot fracture when her foot was run over in a parking lot. Case settled for at-fault driver’s policy limit of $100,000 prior to filing suit.

38-year-old nanny sustained right femur fracture when she fell down defective stairs in home of her employer’s neighbor. All medical expenses and lost wages reimbursed and case settled for an additional $150,000.

Claim against landlord for defective staircase in multi-family rental house. Claimant sustained a right femur fracture. Case settled for $125,000 prior to filing suit.

$95,000 judgment obtained against bar and nightclub for assault by one of its patrons against another patron.

47-year-old woman sustained a broken left wrist when she fell from porch stairs at house she was renting. Case settled for $95,000 shortly before trial.

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