Published by Free Scaffolding Accident Case Evaluation: If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a scaffolding accident and are not able to return to work, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help.
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What’s the problem?
Each year, there are approximately 500,000 construction accidents in the United States, with one in five of these accidents involving scaffolding. Scaffolding accidents usually occur due to improper construction or negligent maintenance.
Scaffolding laws protect workers from height-related accidents. The law requires that all scaffolds used in construction and demolition operations must have safety rails, strong planking, and be sturdy enough to bear four times the maximum permissible load.
Scaffolding and staging at heights must be fastened to prevent it from swaying. Scaffolding and other devices used to work at elevated heights must be maintained in good repair, and every defect or unsafe condition must be immediately corrected before further use.
Causes of Scaffolding Accidents
Common causes of scaffolding accidents may stem from:
- improper construction
- negligent maintenance
- planking or support giving away
- slipping
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) there are strict standards for the assembly and use of scaffolding. The problem is that many times the people responsible for paying for and erecting a scaffold feel that some parts are unnecessary or too expensive. This results in scaffolding that is in violation of OSHA standards and is dangerous to workers & pedestrians.
What Compensation Could I Be Awarded in a Scaffolding Accident Lawsuit?
In a scaffolding accident lawsuit, the amount of compensation the plaintiff is seeking is referred to as “damages.” Compensatory damages pay the victim for their losses caused by the accident. This includes both economic and non-economic damages. Scaffolding accident lawsuit damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income
- Loss of future earning potential
- Compensation for scars
- Compensation for loss of a limb
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional Distress
- Pain and suffering
Falling from scaffolding can result in severe, potentially fatal injuries. After a fatal scaffolding accident, the surviving family may be able to file a lawsuit on behalf of their deceased loved one. A wrongful death lawsuit can also ensure that the wrongdoer is held accountable for their negligence.
Related Articles:
- Welding Accidents Lawsuit
- Construction Site Accident Litigation
- Ladder Fall Workplace Accident Litigation
FAQs
Can I still join the lawsuit if my injuries from the scaffolding accident were mild?
Yes, even if your injuries were mild, you may still be eligible to join the lawsuit and seek compensation for any related costs and inconveniences.
How can an attorney help with a scaffolding accidents lawsuit?
An attorney can help by gathering evidence, filing the lawsuit, negotiating with the defendants, and representing you in court. They can also ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Is there a deadline for filing a scaffolding accidents lawsuit?
Yes, there are statutes of limitations for filing a lawsuit, which vary by state. It is crucial to act promptly and consult with an attorney to ensure you file within the required timeframe.
See all related personal injury and accident lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Do I have a Scaffolding Accident Lawsuit?
The Personal Injury & Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus exclusively on the representation of plaintiffs in scaffolding accident lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.