Fatal-Construction-Fall-imageFalls are the leading cause of death in construction accidents. Falls from ladders, roofs, and scaffolding can all result in serious injuries and even death. One of the city’s latest high-rise projects was the scene of a horrific accident recently, when a construction worker fell 11 stories to his death.

According to the Houston Business Journal, the accident happened at 2929 Weslayan, where the already 35-story tall residential tower is in the process of adding five more stories. The addition will make the building the tallest rental tower in the city.

The construction worker allegedly fell down an elevator shaft inside the building.

“This is a great tragedy,” said Mark Gudenas, of CF Jordan Construction, the general contractor on the project. The developer for the site couldn’t be reached for comment, however.

Construction workers face dangers every day. Though safety regulations are in place to prevent tragedies, accidents still happen. As a matter of fact, fatal construction accidents in the private sector increased in 2012 after five years of falling.

Private-sector fatal construction accidents were up five percent to 775, compared with 738 in 2011. As the economy rebounds, construction work increases and construction accidents are likely to follow suit. Keeping safety a first priority helps ensure construction accidents don’t go through the roof.

It is the responsibility of your employer to keep your work environment safe. This is done through supplying the right equipment and proper training to everyone on the job site. Employers also must frequently check to ensure that the proper protocols are being followed. When they fail to do this and an accident happens, someone must be held accountable.

Construction accidents can be as “minor” as a scrape or sprain. But serious crushing injuries, broken bones, lacerations, and punctures are common as well. These types of accidents can have lasting repercussions for the injured person.

Unable to work and in pain, a construction worker may never fully recover from an accident. In situations like this, where a serious injury occurs, a workplace accident attorney can help workers obtain justice.

Houston Workplace Injury Attorney

If you’ve been hurt on a construction site and are in need of legal consultation, contact Kevin Krist today. Call 832-924-3186 to discuss your legal options and how we may be able to help.