The consequences of these accidents extend far beyond the initial fall. Victims often require months or even years of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy. If you or a loved one has been involved in a Fort Worth fall-from-height accident, it is crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible.
Our team of experienced Fort Worth fall-from-height accident lawyers at Patterson Law Group is dedicated to helping accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve, allowing them to focus on recovery while we handle the legal process.
Understanding Fall From Height Accidents
A fall-from-height accident occurs when a person falls from a higher level to a lower one, often resulting in serious injuries. These accidents are especially common in workplaces like construction sites, warehouses, and high-rise buildings, where employees frequently work on scaffolding, ladders, or elevated platforms. Such environments are particularly risky if proper safety measures are not in place.
In Fort Worth and across the country, fall-from-height accidents represent a significant portion of workplace injuries. Nationwide, falls are one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities, with construction workers being at the highest risk. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that falls accounted for over 30% of workplace fatalities in 2021 alone.
Common Causes of Fall From Height Accidents
There are many factors that can lead to a fall from height accident, and many of them are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:
- Lack of Proper Safety Equipment: Workers may not be provided with adequate harnesses, guardrails, or other protective equipment, increasing their risk of falling.
- Unstable Scaffolding or Ladders: Improperly secured scaffolding or unstable ladders can easily collapse, causing workers to fall from dangerous heights.
- Lack of Safety Protocols and Training: Many accidents occur when workers are not properly trained on how to use equipment safely or when employers fail to enforce safety protocols.
- Employer or Third-Party Negligence: Employers and third parties may fail to provide a safe working environment, leading to hazardous conditions that result in falls.
- Failure to Follow OSHA Regulations: Employers who do not comply with OSHA safety standards are putting their employees at unnecessary risk.
Any of these negligent actions can lead to accidents that have significant consequences for those involved.
Types of Injuries Resulting From Falls
Falls from height often result in severe injuries that can have long-term consequences for the victim. Some common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Falls from height can cause head trauma, leading to cognitive and behavioral impairments, memory loss, and other life-changing effects.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can result in partial or full paralysis, chronic pain, and a need for long-term rehabilitation.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Falls frequently result in broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs, requiring surgeries and long recovery times.
- Internal Injuries and Organ Damage: Some fall victims suffer from internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent but require urgent medical attention.
Beyond the initial physical trauma, victims may experience chronic pain, disability, and a diminished quality of life due to their injuries. After an accident, victims have a right to take legal action. It is essential to identify who is responsible for the accident.
Legal Liability in Fall From Height Accidents
Determining who is responsible for a Fort Worth fall from height accident is essential to securing compensation. Liability can fall on several parties, including:
- Employers: Employers are required to provide a safe working environment. Failure to provide proper safety equipment or enforce safety regulations can make them liable for an accident.
- Contractors and Property Owners: In some cases, property owners or contractors may be held accountable if unsafe conditions on their property contributed to the accident.
- Third-Party Manufacturers: If faulty equipment, such as scaffolding or harnesses, led to the fall, the manufacturer may also be held liable under product liability laws.
Texas law and OSHA regulations play a significant role in determining liability in fall-related accidents. It’s crucial to work with a Fort Worth fall from height accident lawyer on your case to identify the responsible parties.
Why You Need a Fort Worth Fall From Height Accident Lawyer
Having a dedicated lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in ensuring you receive fair compensation after a fall from height accident. Our legal team is here to help in several key ways.
First, we thoroughly investigate your accident, collecting crucial evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and photos from the scene to build a strong case. We also collaborate with medical and safety experts to provide expert testimonies, demonstrating the severity of your injuries and how the accident occurred.
Going through the legal process can be overwhelming, especially when insurance companies try to reduce your compensation. Our Fort Worth fall from height accident lawyer will handle all negotiations and fight fearlessly to ensure you get the full amount you deserve. We have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in fall-from-height cases, helping them secure substantial settlements to support their physical, emotional, and financial recovery.
Compensation Available for Victims
Victims of fall from height accidents may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for medical bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income and diminished earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the pain and suffering that is a result of the accident.
- Long-Term Rehabilitation Costs: If you require long-term therapy or care, you can recover compensation for these expenses.
In fatal accidents, family members can file wrongful death claims to seek compensation for their loss.
Common Challenges in Fall From Height Accident Cases
Fall from height accident cases can be difficult to prove, but our experienced lawyers know how to navigate these challenges. One of the most common hurdles is proving employer negligence, which requires showing that the employer failed to follow safety regulations or provide proper equipment.
Additionally, insurance companies often use defense tactics to downplay the severity of your injuries or shift blame to you, making it even more crucial to have skilled legal representation on your side. If faulty equipment played a role in the accident, dealing with third-party claims against the manufacturer makes it even more challenging.
To strengthen your case, we collaborate with expert witnesses who can provide valuable testimony about the long-term impact of your injuries. Our goal is to overcome these obstacles and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
The Legal Process for Fall From Height Accident Claims
Here’s what to expect during the legal process:
- Filing a Claim: We will file your claim within the appropriate timeline and requirements under Texas law, which is two years from the date of the accident.
- Investigation: Our team will gather evidence, consult experts, and build a solid case.
- Settlement Negotiations or Litigation: We will negotiate with insurance firms to ensure a just settlement. If needed, we are prepared to escalate your case to the court.
- What to Expect: We’ll guide you through the process, providing regular updates and ensuring you are prepared for each stage of the case.
Reaching out to a dedicated legal team early on can significantly improve your chances of protecting your rights and getting justice.
FAQs
Victims of fall from height accidents often have a lot of questions. Here are some answers.
What is the statute of limitations for fall-from-height accident cases in Texas?
In Texas, you typically have two years to file a personal injury claim from the accident date.
Can I sue my employer for a fall from height accident?
You may be able to file a claim against your employer or a third party, depending on the circumstances of your case.
How long does it take to resolve a fall from height injury case?
The timeline varies depending on the factors of the case, but we will work diligently to secure a resolution as quickly as possible.
What if I was partially at fault for my fall from a height accident?
In Texas, the comparative negligence rule is in effect. This means you can still obtain compensation for your damages if you are found to be partially at fault, as long as your share of fault is less than 51%.
How Our Firm Can Help
At Patterson Law Group, we have extensive experience handling fall-from-height accident cases in Fort Worth. We understand that each case is unique, and our personalized approach ensures that we take the time to truly understand your individual circumstances and fight vigorously to protect your rights.
We are committed to providing personalized representation, ensuring every client receives the attention and care they deserve. Our team is dedicated to aggressive advocacy, and we won’t stop until we’ve secured the compensation you’re entitled to. With a proven track record of success, we’re proud of the many clients we’ve helped achieve fair compensation and peace of mind.
Contact Our Fort Worth Fall From Height Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Fort Worth fall from height accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced lawyers at Patterson Law Group. Contact our Fort Worth fall from heights accident lawyer today for a free consultation.
