The construction industry depends on extensive manpower and all types of heavy industrial equipment to get the job done. Even when everyone on the job site follows the applicable safety standards, a defective piece of equipment can wreak havoc and cause a terrible accident.
The dangers of defective equipment on a construction site can lead to consequences that range from serious to deadly personal injuries.
Common Dangers and Injuries from Defective Equipment on a Construction Site
Defective equipment on a construction site can cause a serious accident and has the potential to injure the construction workers at the scene. Commonly reported equipment injuries in construction zones often result from some type of flaw or malfunction in equipment. Other types of faulty equipment that can pose a serious or mortal threat to construction workers can include but are not limited to:
- Drilling rigs
- Generators
- Forklifts
Not all defective equipment injuries result from large industrial machines. If a smaller piece of equipment is faulty, the worker could still face tremendous personal injuries. Tools can pose a terrible risk to the workers using them if a defect is present, including but not limited to:
- Welding rods
- Chain saws
- Nail guns
When a construction worker is subjected to defective equipment, the risk of imminent bodily harm is extremely high. Typical injuries include:
- Terrible burns
- Electrocution injuries
- Blunt-force trauma injuries like brain injuries
- Internal or crushing injuries like bone injuries and punctured organs
Legal Liability for Defective Equipment Injuries and Compensation
When you are injured while working on a construction site because of defective equipment, you may wonder who is liable to pay for your injuries. The answer will depend on the facts and circumstances of your case, the details of your injury, and the type of defect involved.
Workers Compensation Benefits
You can’t typically sue your employer when defective equipment causes you harm, but you may be entitled to claim workers’ compensation benefits. Depending on the nature and severity of your injury, you could be entitled to temporary or permanent lost wage disability benefits in addition to coverage for your medical bills.
Third-Party Negligence Claims
However, when someone other than your employer is responsible for your injury—such as an equipment manufacturer who sold a defective product—you may have grounds to sue that negligent third party. A product can be faulty in several ways.
The product may be defective because it has an inherent flaw in its design or because a flaw occurred somewhere in the manufacturing process. Sometimes, the product becomes defective because it is not marketed correctly to ensure its correct and safe use. A personal injury claim against a defective equipment manufacturer could help you recover multiple types of damages, including pain and suffering compensation.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer When Harmed by Defective Equipment on a Construction Site
When a construction worker is harmed by defective equipment, multiple parties could be legally at fault for what happened. For example, the manufacturer could be liable, but so could the company that distributed the malfunctioning equipment. When you are injured on the job, you can also typically claim workers’ compensation benefits through your employer.
You can be sure these parties will have legal teams and insurance companies whose first focus is preserving their bottom line. Even your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company could try to deny or devalue your claim. You deserve to have a vigilant attorney at your side from day one who can safeguard your rights and seek all forms of compensation available for the harm you have endured.
Reach out to a qualified legal professional today to discuss your case and the best legal options.
