Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in North Carolina, with workers facing a variety of risks every day on the job.
Whether working at great heights, operating heavy machinery, or handling hazardous materials, construction sites can be the setting for serious accidents.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most common construction injuries in North Carolina, the dangers workers face, and why seeking legal counsel after an accident is often a critical step.
Understanding the Risks: Why Construction Injuries Occur
Construction involves heavy machinery, elevated workspaces, and complex tasks that can lead to accidents even with proper safety measures. Factors contributing to construction site injuries include:
- Inadequate safety training,
- Faulty equipment,
- Poor site management, and
- Negligence by employers or third parties.
Recognizing these factors helps mitigate risks and promote a safer working environment for all construction workers in North Carolina.
Common Injuries in Construction
Construction workers experience some of the highest rates of workplace injuries across all industries. Below are the most common construction injuries that occur on job sites throughout North Carolina:
Falls from Heights
Falls are a leading cause of injuries on construction sites. Workers often perform tasks from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or other elevated areas, significantly increasing the risk of falls. These accidents can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or even death.
Struck by Objects
Construction sites are often chaotic, with tools, materials, and debris constantly in motion. Workers risk being struck by falling objects, such as tools or equipment, or even hit by moving machinery like forklifts and cranes. These types of construction site injuries can lead to head trauma, broken bones, or internal injuries.
Electrocution
Electrical hazards are a significant concern on construction sites, especially when workers handle wiring or power tools or work near power lines. Electrocution can cause severe burns, nerve damage, and, in some cases, death. It’s one of the most avoidable injuries in construction when proper safety protocols are in place.
Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents
Workers can get caught in or between heavy machinery, equipment, or collapsing materials. These accidents often result in crush injuries, amputations, or even death.
The heavy machinery used on construction sites poses a serious risk when proper safeguards aren’t in place.
Repetitive Motion Injuries
While construction work is typically associated with acute trauma, repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis, are also frequent among workers.
These common injuries in construction develop over time due to repetitive tasks like hammering, drilling, or lifting heavy materials.
Burns
Burns are another common injury on construction sites. They can occur from contact with hot surfaces, electrical malfunctions, or exposure to hazardous chemicals. Burn injuries may require extensive medical treatment and leave lasting scars depending on the severity.
Impact of Construction Injuries on Workers’ Lives
The consequences of most common construction injuries extend beyond physical pain. Victims may face:
- Loss of income due to inability to work,
- Mounting medical bills,
- Long-term or permanent disability, and
- Emotional and psychological distress.
These impacts underscore the importance of robust safety measures and support systems for injured workers. Whether you have experienced a common injury in construction or something completely unique, asserting your rights to meaningful compensation is important.
Statute of Limitations for Construction Injuries in North Carolina
If you’ve suffered an injury on a construction site in North Carolina, it’s essential to understand the statute of limitations that applies to your case. The statute of limitations is the legal time frame within which you must file a lawsuit, or you may lose your right to seek compensation.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
For workers’ compensation claims, the statute of limitations in North Carolina is generally two years from the date of the injury. If you fail to file a claim within two years of your injury, you risk forfeiting your workers’ comp benefits.
Personal Injury Claims
If your injury was caused by a third party (someone other than your employer), you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in North Carolina is three years from the date of the injury.
If a fatality occurs, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of death.
Why You Should Seek Legal Counsel After Construction Site Injuries
If you or a loved one experiences an injury in a construction accident, it’s essential to consult with a lawyer. Construction accidents often involve multiple parties—employers, contractors, equipment manufacturers—and determining liability can be complex. Working with legal counsel has several important benefits.
Understanding Your Rights
North Carolina workers’ compensation laws are in place to help injured employees recover medical expenses and lost wages. However, not all cases are straightforward, and an experienced attorney can help you navigate these regulations to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
Pursuing Third-Party Claims
In some cases, you may have the right to pursue a third-party claim in addition to workers’ compensation. For example, if a faulty piece of equipment caused your injury, you could hold the manufacturer liable. Legal counsel can assess the situation and determine if you have grounds for additional compensation.
Understanding North Carolina Statutes
North Carolina law has specific statutes that govern construction site injuries. A construction accident attorney can help you understand these laws and how they apply to your case.
Ensuring a Fair Settlement
Insurance companies don’t always offer fair settlements and may downplay the extent of your injuries. By working with a legal team like Mehta & McConnell, you’ll have advocates who will fight to ensure you receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact Mehta & McConnell for Help With Construction Site Injuries
At Mehta & McConnell, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll construction accidents can take on workers and their families. If you’ve suffered from one of the most common injuries in construction, our team is here to help you navigate the legal process, hold the responsible parties accountable, and secure the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Mehta & McConnell today for a free consultation to discuss your options and take the first step toward recovery.
Whether you’re dealing with the fallout of a construction site injury or need advice on how to proceed, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Viral Mehta
Viral Mehta is the managing attorney of Mehta & McConnell Injury Lawyers, a Charlotte, North Carolina Workers’ Compensation law firm. He enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, sports, and reading.
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