Scaffolding is used on a regular basis in construction and structural repair jobs. It is designed to allow workers access to the sides or tops of structures without the need for unsteady ladders. Most of the time, it is safe. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, especially in situations where a worker or their employer is careless.
If you have been injured in a fall from a scaffold, our dedicated construction accident attorneys may be able to help. Now is the right time to explore your options, as you have a limited amount of time to file a claim. You can call a Springfield scaffolding accident lawyer today to discuss your options.
A scaffolding accident can occur when you least expect it. Our attorneys have seen the following factors contribute to scaffolding accidents in Springfield.
Scaffolding must be assembled according to strict guidelines. When parts are missing, connections are loose, or the structure is not level, the entire system can become unstable. Even a small mistake during setup can lead to a collapse.
Guardrails, harnesses, and other fall protection systems are critical when working on scaffolding. When these safeguards are missing or not used correctly, the chances of a serious injury increase significantly.
Some workers are unaware that each scaffold has a weight limit. When scaffolding carries the weight of too many people or too much equipment, it can break or collapse, leading to injury.
A lack of traction can also be a serious issue when working on scaffolding. When rain or debris is present, it significantly increases the risk of tripping or falling. These risks are made worse by workers who are carrying equipment or otherwise distracted.
Some of the most devastating accidents occur due to worker error, but the reality is that a lack of training could be the real culprit. If a person is not trained to properly construct or traverse scaffolding, it can lead to a serious injury.
Falls from scaffolding often lead to severe injuries because of the height involved. Even a fall from a relatively low level can result in serious harm. The impact can affect multiple parts of the body and may require long-term medical care.
Common injuries include:
These injuries can alter your life in different ways, from making it difficult to find work to limiting your ability to perform basic daily tasks. A Springfield attorney could help you pursue a workers’ compensation claim after a scaffolding accident.
If you were injured in a scaffolding accident in Springfield, our attorneys could help you pursue workers’ compensation benefits. One of the major draws of this system is that you can recover benefits without having to show that your employer was at fault. If your claim is successful, you could receive different types of benefits.
First, workers’ compensation pays for any necessary medical treatment related to the injury. The cost of your hospitalization and surgical procedures is not only covered but also paid directly to your providers so that you do not have to be reimbursed.
In addition to paying your medical bills, you might also have the right to seek compensation based on your lost wages. Many workers are able to recoup a percentage of their lost income after suffering injury in a scaffolding accident.
If you have been hurt in a scaffolding accident, it is important to seek guidance from skilled legal counsel. Reach out to a Springfield scaffolding accident lawyer today to learn about your next steps.
Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley
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