Recent reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that more than 3,400 people were hurt, and over 50 people were killed as a result of scaffolding accidents in one recent year.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a scaffolding accident, seeking legal assistance is critical. Filing legal action after being harmed in a scaffolding accident can be quite challenging, particularly when you are dealing with medical issues and financial stress.
At Patterson Law Group, our Fort Worth scaffolding accident lawyer has the experience and dedication to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Scaffolding Accidents
A scaffolding accident occurs when the structure, stability, or safety protocols of the scaffolding system fail, leading to a fall or collapse. These accidents are not limited to construction sites; they can happen in warehouses, commercial buildings, and even residential areas where scaffolding is used.
Scaffolding accidents are more common in construction zones but can also occur in various work settings where scaffolds are used for elevated tasks. Nationwide, approximately 60 deaths are reported each year from scaffolding accidents, with thousands more suffering injuries. Fort Worth is no exception, and as our city grows, the risk of these accidents increases with ongoing construction and development projects.
Common Causes of Scaffolding Accidents
Several factors contribute to scaffolding accidents, most of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:
- Lack of proper safety equipment: Harnesses, guardrails, and secure tie-offs are essential for preventing falls from scaffolding. Workers are at serious risk when these safety measures are not provided or used.
- Improper construction or placement of scaffolding: Scaffolds must be constructed with the right materials and techniques. A poorly built scaffold can collapse or become unstable.
- Negligence in securing scaffolding structures: Scaffolding must be anchored and inspected regularly to ensure it remains secure. Accidents are more likely when employers or contractors fail to maintain scaffolding properly.
- Failure to follow OSHA regulations: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) sets strict guidelines for using scaffolding, but accidents are almost inevitable when these regulations are ignored.
- Unsafe working environments: Job sites that are cluttered, chaotic, or improperly managed can lead to accidents, especially around scaffolding.
Types of Injuries in Scaffolding Accidents
Scaffolding accidents often lead to severe and life-altering injuries due to the height and weight involved. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Falls from scaffolding often lead to head injuries, which can result in concussions or more severe TBIs. These injuries may affect cognitive function and cause lifelong disabilities.
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: A fall from a great height can damage the spine, leading to paralysis or chronic pain. These injuries may require long-term care and rehabilitation.
- Broken bones and fractures: Scaffolding accidents frequently result in multiple fractures, which can require surgeries and extensive recovery times.
- Internal injuries and organ damage: The impact from a fall can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Emotional and psychological trauma: In addition to the physical injuries, victims of scaffolding accidents often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression as they cope with the consequences of their accidents.
Legal Liability in Scaffolding Accidents
Determining who is legally responsible for a scaffolding accident can be complicated. The liable parties can include:
Employers
Employers can be held liable if they fail to provide proper safety equipment, neglect to follow safety protocols, or otherwise create unsafe working conditions.
Contractors
In many cases, contractors ensure that scaffolding is safely constructed and maintained. If they fail to do so, they may be held accountable.
Property owners
If scaffolding is used on private property, the property owner may be liable for accidents due to unsafe conditions.
Third parties
In some cases, manufacturers of scaffolding equipment may be responsible if defective products contributed to the accident.
Texas law and OSHA regulations play a significant role in determining liability in scaffolding accident cases. Understanding the intricacies of these laws is crucial to building a strong case, which is why having a skilled Fort Worth scaffolding accident lawyer is so important.
Why You Need a Fort Worth Scaffolding Accident Lawyer
Having a dedicated lawyer after a scaffolding accident is critical for several reasons:
- Gathering evidence: An experienced lawyer will work quickly to gather critical evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies to build your case.
- Negotiations with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to accident victims. A Fort Worth scaffolding accident lawyer will advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
- Building a strong case: Our team at Patterson Law Group has successfully handled scaffolding accident cases, ensuring that our clients receive fair and just compensation for their injuries. We have a track record of success in these cases.
Steps to Take After a Scaffolding Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a scaffolding accident, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your rights and secure the best outcome for your case. First, seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries aren’t severe. Some injuries, especially internal ones, may not be obvious right away, and a medical evaluation can ensure your health is properly assessed.
Next, report the accident to your employer or supervisor as soon as possible to create a formal record of the incident. It’s also crucial to preserve evidence by taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any defective equipment involved.
If there were witnesses, be sure to collect their contact information. Finally, contact a Fort Worth scaffolding accident lawyer as early as you can. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of building a strong case and securing the compensation you deserve.
Compensation Available for Victims
Victims of scaffolding accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and any future medical treatments.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity: If you cannot work due to your injuries, you can seek compensation for lost wages and future lost earning potential.
- Pain and suffering: Scaffolding accidents can cause immense physical and emotional pain, which may be compensated in a personal injury claim.
- Long-term rehabilitation and therapy costs: Many injuries require ongoing, costly care.
- Wrongful death claims: If a scaffolding accident leads to a fatality, family members may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Common Challenges in Scaffolding Accident Cases
Scaffolding accident cases can be particularly challenging due to the complex nature of the issues involved, including:
- Proving negligence: It can be difficult to prove that negligence caused the accident, especially if multiple parties are involved.
- Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies may attempt to deny or reduce your claim. An experienced Fort Worth scaffolding accident lawyer will handle negotiations to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- Third-party claims: If equipment failure or negligence by a third party contributed to the accident, it can complicate the legal process. Expert witnesses may be necessary to prove fault.
The Legal Process for Scaffolding Accident Claims
The legal process for scaffolding accident claims typically involves the following steps:
- Filing a claim: Your lawyer will file a claim on your behalf within the required timeline.
- Investigation: An in-depth investigation will be conducted, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts.
- Negotiations: Most cases settle before going to trial, but your lawyer will negotiate with the responsible parties to secure a fair settlement.
- Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial, where your lawyer will represent your interests in court.
How Our Firm Can Help
At Patterson Law Group, we have years of experience handling scaffolding accident cases in Fort Worth. Our team is committed to providing personalized, aggressive representation for every client. We have helped many individuals recover the compensation they need to move forward after a devastating accident.
We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency basis, which means you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
FAQs
Victims of scaffolding accidents often have many questions about their legal rights and options.
What is the statute of limitations for scaffolding accident cases in Texas?
In Texas, you generally have two years to file a personal injury claim from the accident date.
Can I sue my employer for a scaffolding accident?
You may be able to sue your employer if they were grossly negligent or violated safety regulations.
How long does it take to resolve a scaffolding injury case?
There is no way to predict how quickly you can settle your case. This generally depends on various factors, including the extent of injuries, the resulting medical costs, and various other factors. Meeting
What if I was partially responsible for my scaffolding accident?
Texas follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages if you are not more than 50% at fault.
Contact Our Fort Worth Scaffolding Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a scaffolding accident, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced Fort Worth scaffolding accident lawyer at Patterson Law Group. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
