Providing Skilled Advocacy In Iowa Construction Worker Injury Cases

Construction sites are often full of activity. They can be packed with heavy machinery, towering structures and large numbers of workers performing different tasks. Unfortunately, there is also no shortage of dangers when it comes to these workplaces. When accidents and injuries occur due to such hazards, it can put construction workers and their families into extremely stressful situations. However, there can be important paths to relief. Our Iowa construction accident attorneys at Wertz Law Firm, P.C., can help you pursue them.

Our experienced Cedar Rapids team solely focuses on workers’ compensation law, serving clients throughout the state. This puts us in a strong position to give you the dynamic and knowledgeable support you need when seeking benefits after construction accidents. Reach out to us now via email or by phone at 319-861-3001 for a free consultation.

What Injuries Occur In Construction?

Construction sites are no strangers to injuries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 173,200 non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in the construction industry in 2023. Construction workers can suffer many different harms on the job, including:

Traumatic brain injuries
Burns
Shoulder injuries
Broken bones
Back and neck injuries
Spinal injuries
Cuts
Sprains and strains
Repetitive stress injuries
Hearing loss

We understand the impact these injuries can have on your life and stand ready to pursue legal solutions that protect your future.

A Potentially Deadly Workplace

Construction accidents can have fatal consequences for workers. In 2023, over 1,000 construction-related deaths occurred in the U.S., making up more than 20% of all workplace deaths in the nation that year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

What Are The “Fatal Four”?

The term “fatal four” refers to the four most common causes of death within the construction industry. As per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, these deadly hazards are:

Falls: Such as workers falling from ladders, scaffolding, roofs or other heights.
Struck-by accidents: Such as incidents involving motor vehicles, construction equipment or falling objects
Caught-in/between accidents: Such as workers getting trapped in collapsing structures or pinned by machinery
Electrocution: Such as through contact with live wires or faulty electrical systems.

These risks can also result in a wide array of construction injuries. It’s crucial for safety measures at construction sites to properly address the fatal four.

What Can Construction Workers Do To Avoid Falls?

Among the ‘fatal four,’ falls are responsible for the most construction deaths. According to the BLS, in 2023, falls accounted for 39% of fatalities in the construction industry. There are a range of fall prevention steps workers can take to protect themselves from such construction accidents, including:

Using appropriate safety equipment when working at heights
Knowing and following their worksite’s safety standards and protocols
Being aware of their surroundings

Unfortunately, even with such precautionary measures, fall accidents can still happen. We can provide you and your family with dedicated legal support if they do.

A Key Source Of Relief

Workers’ compensation can be a crucial resource for those affected by construction accidents. Under Iowa law, construction workers who suffer work-related injuries can receive a range of benefits to help them cope with the impacts of what happened, including coverage of their medical treatment. When construction accidents have fatal results, families of victims can pursue death benefits through the state’s workers’ comp system. Having skilled legal guidance can be vital when seeking relief through a workers’ compensation claim.

When Multiple Parties Play A Role In A Construction Accident

While injured construction workers can pursue workers’ comp claims, they generally can’t file personal injury lawsuits related to their injuries. However, one major exception to this is if a third party was responsible for the accident. In construction accident cases, many parties beyond just a worker’s employer could have played a role in what happened. Examples include:

Companies renting out poorly maintained equipment
Manufacturers of defective tools
Property owners who allow unsafe conditions to arise
Architects who provide faulty designs

A skilled attorney can help construction workers with determining who might have been at fault for what happened to them, and understanding what this could mean for their legal options.

Why Choose Us For Your Construction Injury Case

At our firm, you get workers’ compensation representation backed by decades of experience. With a deep commitment to quality service, professional support and personal care, our lawyers are valuable allies in the fight for relief after construction accidents. We can help you with every step of seeking the benefits you need to support your recovery. Additionally, our contingency fee structure means you don’t pay us unless we recover compensation for you.

Reach Out To Our Construction Accident Attorneys Today

Learn more about what our experience and dedication can do for you. Contact us now at 319-861-3001 or through our form. We offer 100% free initial consultations.