According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), 3,929 workers were killed on the job in the United States in 2013. Of that number, 796, or 20 percent, were construction workers. Construction sites are one of the most dangerous places to work. Workers are constantly handling heavy equipment and hazardous substances, and working in risky situations. Although there are many health and safety codes that are meant to protect workers, accidents still occur.

The most common causes of injury or death at construction sites are:

  • Falls from ladders or scaffolding
  • Electrocution
  • Falling debris or equipment
  • Unsafe structures
  • Construction vehicle accidents
  • Defective machinery
  • Slip and fall accidents
  • Exposure to toxic chemicals
  • Crane accidents
  • Roof cave-ins
  • Gas explosion accidents

OSHA creates regulations to protect workers. However, if an employer ignores these safety regulations as a way to save time or money, the workers are at serious risk of injury or death. When an accident occurs on a construction site, the injured worker and their family suffer physically, emotionally and financially. The negligent parties should be held responsible for your losses.

If you or a loved one has suffered a severe or fatal injury on a construction site, you may be able to file a claim to collect damages. An experienced West Virginia construction accident attorney can help you determine who is at fault and get you the compensation you deserve.