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Construction workers in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, face significant daily risks, from heavy machinery accidents to falls and other on-the-job dangers.

If you’ve been injured on a job site, it’s essential to consult with an experienced Fort Lauderdale construction accident lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Many Fort Lauderdale workers are involved in city projects like those managed by LauderStreet. Unfortunately, working on projects like these comes with inherent dangers.

Imagine while working as part of a LauderStreet crew on E. Las Olas Blvd., you are struck by a drunk driver, causing severe injuries.

Or possibly while working on a high-rise at The Tides at Bridgeside Square, you are severely injured when improperly secured heavy equipment falls from a crane.

In such cases, legal action can help hold the negligent party accountable and compensate you for your pain and suffering.

These types of accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries and significant financial burdens, making legal representation crucial.

Whether you work for the city or are employed by one of the top construction companies in Fort Lauderdale, such as Palladium Construction, Miller Construction Company, Danto Builders, KD Construction, or Trebbi Custom Construction, your safety should always be a priority.

Our experienced construction accident attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, specialize in holding negligent employers, contractors, and other parties responsible for unsafe work environments, ensuring you get the justice and financial compensation needed to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages caused by the accident.

How Often Do Construction Accidents Occur in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?

Unfortunately, Construction accidents are all too common in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Florida. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida experienced 315 fatal work injuries in 2021, with a significant portion occurring in the construction industry.

Construction work is among the most dangerous professions, with accidents happening frequently due to the high-risk nature of the job, from operating heavy machinery to working at extreme heights. These accidents can range from non-fatal injuries to tragic fatalities.

One of the leading causes of death on construction sites is falls. Falls account for a large percentage of fatal construction accidents in Florida. According to a report from Florida Health, nearly one-third of workplace fatalities in the state from 2007 to 2016 were caused by falls, particularly in the construction sector.

Workers often face dangerous conditions when working on scaffolding, ladders, or roofs, which makes falls a persistent threat in this line of work.

Another high-risk area for construction workers is roadway work zones. Many construction accidents occur in these zones due to distracted driving, speeding, and improper signage.

According to the Florida Department of Transportation, 102 fatalities were recorded in Florida’s work zones in 2021. Workers on city projects, such as those managed by LauderStreet, are particularly vulnerable to accidents caused by negligent drivers.

These incidents highlight the ongoing dangers construction workers face every day.

Despite safety regulations, construction accidents in Fort Lauderdale continue to occur frequently.

Awareness of the risks and statistics helps highlight the importance of safety protocols and legal recourse for those injured on the job.

For immediate legal assistance from an experienced Fort Lauderdale construction accident lawyer, contact our law firm today. We offer free case evaluations.

What Are Some Common Types of Construction Site Accidents in Florida?

Construction sites are inherently dangerous, with various potential hazards leading to accidents. Below are some of the most common types of accidents that occur on Florida construction sites:

Common Types of Construction Site Accidents

Falls from Heights: Workers can fall from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or other elevated areas, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.
Struck by Falling Objects: Workers risk being hit by tools, equipment, or building materials that fall from elevated heights due to improper securing or handling.
Electrocution: Contact with live electrical wires, exposed circuits, or power lines can lead to severe electrical burns or fatal electrocution.
Caught in/Between Accidents: Workers may get caught between heavy equipment, moving vehicles, or collapsing structures, often resulting in crushing injuries.
Slips, Trips, and Falls: Debris, tools, uneven surfaces, and wet areas can cause workers to slip, trip, or fall, resulting in injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Machinery Accidents: Heavy machinery, such as cranes, forklifts, and bulldozers, can cause accidents when improperly operated or maintained, leading to severe injury or death.
Fires and Explosions: Construction sites often handle flammable materials, chemicals, and gases, increasing the risk of fires and explosions that can cause severe burns or fatalities.
Trench or Building Collapses: When trenches are not adequately reinforced, or buildings are unstable during construction, collapses can trap and injure workers.

Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents

Lack of Fall Protection: Inadequate safety measures, like missing harnesses or guardrails, contribute to many falls from heights.
Improperly Secured Equipment: Poorly secured tools and materials can fall and strike workers, causing significant injuries.
Insufficient Training: Many accidents happen because workers are not adequately trained to operate machinery or safely handle hazardous materials.
Failure to Use Protective Gear: Not wearing hard hats, gloves, or goggles can lead to more severe injuries when accidents occur.
Unsafe Worksite Conditions: Cluttered or poorly maintained work areas can lead to slips, trips, and falls or make it harder to avoid accidents involving machinery.
Faulty Equipment: Malfunctioning or poorly maintained machinery is a leading cause of construction site injuries.
Exposure to Hazardous Materials: Failure to properly handle or store dangerous chemicals and materials can lead to fires, explosions, or health issues from exposure.
Negligence of Other Workers: Sometimes, accidents occur due to the carelessness or inattention of other workers on the site, such as those who drive machinery recklessly or mishandle tools.

By recognizing both the types and causes of construction site accidents, employers and workers can take the necessary steps to prevent these incidents from happening.

To learn more about the leading causes of accidents on construction sites, reach out to our experienced Fort Lauderdale construction accident attorneys today. We offer free consultations and are never too busy to speak with you.

What Are Construction Workers' Rights in Florida?

Construction workers in Florida have specific rights to protect them in case of accidents or unsafe working conditions. These rights are enforced through both state laws and federal guidelines to ensure worker safety and compensation when injuries occur.

Right to a Safe Workplace

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Florida construction workers have the right to a safe and hazard-free work environment. OSHA regulations require employers to maintain safe worksites by addressing common hazards such as falls, electrical risks, and heavy machinery accidents.

Workers also have the right to receive training in a language they understand, to use correctly maintained safety equipment, and to report unsafe conditions without fear of retaliation. Right to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

If a construction worker is injured, they can file a workers’ compensation claim to receive medical treatment and wage replacement benefits. Workers’ compensation covers injuries sustained while performing job-related duties; employers are legally required to provide this insurance. Workers can also pursue compensation by filing a claim for long-term disabilities that may result from a severe accident.

Right to Refuse Dangerous Work

Florida construction workers also have the right to refuse work that they believe presents an imminent danger. If an employer insists that a worker continues a task despite serious safety concerns, the worker is protected under OSHA guidelines. These rights ensure that construction workers are not forced to take unnecessary risks on the job.

By recognizing and exercising these rights, Florida construction workers can protect themselves and seek the compensation they deserve if an accident occurs.

To learn more about construction workers’ rights in Florida, contact our knowledgeable personal injury lawyers in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, today.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Construction Site Accident in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?

Determining liability can be complex when a construction accident occurs in Fort Lauderdale. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, multiple parties may be responsible. Below are some potential parties who can be held liable in a construction site accident.

Property Owners

In many cases, the property owner where the construction takes place can be held responsible if the accident occurs due to unsafe conditions. Property owners must maintain a reasonably safe environment for workers and anyone else on-site. They may be liable for injuries if they fail to do so, which leads to an accident.

General Contractors and Subcontractors

General contractors and subcontractors are typically responsible for ensuring the worksite complies with safety regulations. This includes providing safety equipment, overseeing the work environment, and enforcing safety protocols.

If they neglect these duties and a worker is injured, the contractor or subcontractor can be liable for the accident. Due to their direct control over the site, they are often the primary parties in construction accident lawsuits.

Equipment Manufacturers

Defective equipment or machinery can cause injury in some construction accidents. In these situations, the manufacturer of the faulty equipment can be held liable. If an investigation finds that the machinery was poorly designed or had manufacturing defects, injured workers may have a product liability claim against the equipment manufacturer.

Third-Party Drivers

Third-party drivers can be held responsible for accidents involving roadway construction zones. If a driver negligently causes an accident injuring construction workers—such as speeding through a work zone—they may be liable for the resulting injuries.

Employers

Although workers’ compensation generally prevents employees from suing their employer for negligence, there are exceptions. For instance, if the employer intentionally disregarded safety regulations or failed to provide workers’ compensation insurance, they could be liable in a civil lawsuit.

Acknowledging who is liable in a construction accident is crucial for recovering the compensation needed to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Responsibility will be determined by examining each party’s role on the job site and their adherence to safety regulations.

A skilled and experienced Fort Lauderdale construction accident lawyer from our law firm can help you understand more about the potential liable parties after an accident or injury. Contact our legal team today to schedule a free consultation.

Workers' Compensation Claims vs. Construction Accident Injury Claims in Florida

Construction workers injured on the job in Florida have two primary avenues for seeking compensation: filing a workers’ compensation claim or pursuing a personal injury claim. Knowing the difference between these two legal options is crucial for securing the proper compensation for injuries sustained on a construction site.

Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system designed to benefit employees injured while performing their duties. In Florida, most employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical expenses, partial lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for injured workers.

One key benefit of filing a workers’ compensation claim is that the injured worker does not need to prove negligence or fault on the part of their employer or coworkers. However, workers are limited in what they can recover—compensation is generally restricted to medical bills and a portion of lost wages. It does not cover pain and suffering or punitive damages.

While workers’ compensation provides essential financial support, it also prevents employees from suing their employers for negligence, even if the employer’s actions directly caused the accident. Understanding the difference between workers’ comp and other legal claims is essential.

Construction Accident Injury Claims

A construction accident injury claim, on the other hand, allows the injured worker to seek total compensation for their injuries. Still, it requires proving that a third party (not the employer) was negligent.

These claims typically arise when another party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or careless driver, is responsible for the accident. Unlike workers’ compensation, a personal injury claim can cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering and the total cost of lost wages and future medical care.

In some cases, a worker may be eligible to file both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party injury claim simultaneously. This is particularly useful when the workers’ compensation benefits do not fully cover the worker’s losses.

How Does Compensation Work in a Fort Lauderdale Construction Accident Lawsuit?

When a construction worker is injured in a Fort Lauderdale accident, they may be entitled to compensation beyond what workers’ compensation provides. Understanding how compensation works in a construction accident lawsuit is essential to recovering the total damages.

Below are critical aspects of calculating compensation and what victims can expect:

Types of Compensation Available

In a Fort Lauderdale construction accident lawsuit, injured workers can seek different compensation types, including economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible financial losses, such as:

Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical care related to the accident. Compensation may also cover future medical expenses if long-term treatment is required.
Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Injured workers can recover compensation for their lost income due to the accident. If the injury prevents workers from returning to their previous jobs or reduces their earning capacity, they can also seek compensation for future lost wages.

In addition to economic damages, non-economic damages are also available. These are less tangible but just as important, covering:

Pain and Suffering: This compensates the injured worker for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. Since these damages are more challenging to quantify, their value is typically determined by the severity of the injury and its impact on the worker’s life.
Loss of Quality of Life: If the accident has led to permanent disabilities or limitations that reduce the worker’s ability to enjoy life, compensation may also be awarded for this loss.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, the court may award punitive damages if the accident was caused by egregious negligence or intentional misconduct. Punitive damages punish the responsible party and deter others from engaging in similar reckless behavior.

Factors Affecting Compensation

The compensation awarded in a construction accident lawsuit depends on several factors, such as the severity of the injury, the extent of financial losses, and whether the injured worker contributed to the accident in any way. Florida follows a comparative negligence system, which means that if the injured party is found partially at fault, their compensation may be reduced accordingly.

By understanding the types of compensation available and how these factors influence the amount awarded, injured construction workers in Fort Lauderdale can take the proper steps to pursue total and fair compensation for their losses.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is experiencing a construction boom, with many projects transforming the city’s landscape. This growth is evident in infrastructure improvements and new residential developments, reflecting the city’s commitment to progress and modernization.

Ongoing Construction Projects

Road maintenance and upgrades are a significant focus in Fort Lauderdale, aimed at enhancing transportation efficiency and safety. Projects like those featured on the LauderStreet initiative showcase the city’s dedication to maintaining and improving its roadways. This initiative aims to facilitate smoother traffic flow and ensure residents enjoy safer, more accessible streets.

New Developments

In addition to road projects, Fort Lauderdale is witnessing the construction of several exciting new buildings and condominiums. Among the notable developments are luxury condos and commercial spaces that cater to the growing population and economy.

For instance, projects such as the 100 Las Olas Tower are set to redefine the city’s skyline, while new mixed-use developments promise to bring more amenities and services to residents.

As Fort Lauderdale continues to evolve, these construction projects enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal and contribute to its economic growth and livability. With such a vibrant construction landscape, the potential for accidents increases, underscoring the importance of safety and regulation on these sites.

Experienced Construction Site Injury Law Firm in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

At Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, we specialize in handling construction site accident cases and understand the significant challenges injured workers face. With years of experience advocating for clients in Fort Lauderdale, our dedicated team is committed to securing the compensation you deserve.

Our skilled construction accident attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, provide personalized attention and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. If you’ve been injured on a construction site, we encourage you to contact us today for a free consultation.

In addition to Fort Lauderdale, locations we serve include Hialeah, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Miramar, Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Miami Gardens, and more.

Fort Lauderdale Construction Accident Attorney