Types of Construction Accidents: Understanding Jobsite Risks

Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in San Diego and across the nation. The combination of heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and high-risk tasks creates an environment where accidents can happen in an instant. Understanding the different types of construction accidents is essential to promote jobsite safety and ensure accountability when injuries occur.

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Falls from Heights

Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry, accounting for nearly 40% of all construction site deaths, according to OSHA.

Common Scenarios:

• Workers falling from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs.
• Improper use of fall protection systems.
• Unstable working surfaces, such as poorly constructed platforms.

Injuries Caused: Broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord damage, and even fatalities.

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Struck-by Incidents

A “struck-by” accident occurs when a worker is hit by an object, vehicle, or equipment. These incidents are the second leading cause of construction fatalities.

Common Scenarios:

• Being hit by falling tools or materials from overhead.
• Struck by moving machinery, such as forklifts or cranes.
• Accidents involving vehicles in work zones.

Injuries Caused: Head trauma, internal injuries, fractures, and lacerations.

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Caught-Between or Crush Accidents

These accidents happen when a worker is caught in or crushed by equipment, materials, or collapsing structures.

Common Scenarios:

• Getting caught between heavy machinery and a wall.
• Collapse of trenches, walls, or scaffolding.
• Hands or limbs pulled into machinery without proper safeguards.

Injuries Caused: Crushed limbs, suffocation, and severe fractures.

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Electrocution

Electrical hazards are common on construction sites and can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Common Scenarios:

• Contact with live wires.
• Using faulty power tools or equipment.
• Lack of proper ground-fault protection.

Injuries Caused: Severe burns, nerve damage, cardiac arrest, or death.

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Machinery and Equipment Malfunctions

Heavy machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, can cause devastating accidents when improperly maintained or operated.

Common Scenarios:

• Defective equipment causing sudden malfunctions.
• Workers injured by unguarded machine parts.
• Miscommunication during the operation of large machinery.

Injuries Caused: Amputations, crush injuries, or severe trauma.

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Slip and Fall Accidents

Not all falls occur from significant heights; slips and trips on construction sites can also lead to serious injuries.

Common Scenarios:

• Wet or uneven surfaces.
• Debris or tools left in walkways.
• Inadequate lighting in work areas.

Injuries Caused: Sprains, fractures, and head injuries.

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Exposure to Hazardous Materials

Construction sites often involve working with dangerous chemicals or materials. Prolonged exposure or accidental spills can lead to serious health issues.

Common Scenarios:

• Contact with asbestos or lead.
• Exposure to toxic fumes or solvents.
• Burns from handling flammable materials.

Injuries Caused: Respiratory illnesses, chemical burns, or long-term conditions such as cancer.

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Falling Objects

Tools, materials, and debris can fall, striking workers below.

Common Scenarios:

• Improperly secured tools or building materials.
• Workers passing under active construction zones without adequate protection.

Injuries Caused: Head injuries, concussions, or fatalities.

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Trench Collapses

Trench work is common in construction but poses significant risks if not done correctly.

Common Scenarios:

• Poorly reinforced trenches collapsing on workers.
• Lack of safe egress routes in trench systems.

Injuries Caused: Crushing injuries, suffocation, or fatalities.

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Seeking Justice After a Construction Accident

Construction site accidents are often preventable. When safety protocols are ignored or negligence occurs, workers and their families may suffer life-altering consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

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How Hulburt Law Firm Can Help

At Hulburt Law Firm, our San Diego Construction Accident Attorneys have represented many individuals and families impacted by construction site injuries. Conor and Leslie Hulburt have dedicated their careers to fighting for those harmed by catastrophic injuries. They understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take. With their compassionate approach and aggressive advocacy, they aim to secure the justice you deserve—because The Truth Demands Justice.

If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, call Hulburt Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, assess your case, and guide you toward the compensation you’re entitled to.

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Related Content:

• San Diego Construction Accident Attorneys 

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