Construction sites are the most dangerous workplaces in the U.S. On average, over 1,000 workers are killed every year in construction accidents. The majority of these fatalities are caused by falls, as workers are often working dozens of feet off the ground. Not only do workers have to work with heavy machinery on a daily basis, but there is also the constant threat of equipment failure. Falling debris, snapped cables, faulty equipment, and electrocution are just some of the hazards they must deal with.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has laws and regulations in place to prevent these types of accidents. If an employer fails to uphold these regulations or a co-worker was negligent in their work, they could be held liable for any accident that occurred as a result.

One example of a recent construction accident occurred in February in the West Side neighborhood of San Antonio. One afternoon, a row of rebar support beams 20 yards long fell onto two workers, critically injuring one of them. The total weight of the rebar was in the neighborhood of 1,000 pounds, more than enough to be fatal. The worker who was injured was left with multiple broken bones and serious head trauma.

The injuries that can be sustained by accidents at worksites can range from cuts and bruises to permanent disability and death. If you or a loved one were injured while working on a construction site, you should contact a workplace injury lawyer immediately. An accident of this level of seriousness could result in a long recovery time, coupled with high medical costs. By filing a lawsuit against the person or company who was responsible, you could get the compensation you need to get back to normal.

Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding workplace safety can help determine fault. The owner of the construction site is legally required to provide a safe work environment. That includes who they select as contractors, as contractors can determine how OSHA-compliant a job site is. Not only that, but owners need to make sure that their employees are working within safety laws and are provided with training on how to do so.

If you were the victim of a construction accident, there are certain steps you should follow to protect your future.

First, you should visit a medical professional to get an accurate record of your injuries. This should be well-documented in case the severity of your accident was questioned. Second, you should report the incident to your manager. Failing to notify them soon enough could have a negative effect on your case. Try to retain as much evidence as possible that might have a bearing on your case as it may be needed in the future.

By talking to a qualified personal injury lawyer, you could receive professional counsel from someone with experience in these types of accidents.