In Louisiana, accidents on the job can happen in any industry whether it is a physically demanding job or one that is more sedentary. However, given the nature of construction work, people who work in that industry have a higher chance of being hurt and losing their lives in an accident. Statistics are kept and assessed to determine where the dangers are and to try and forge strategies to keep workers safe. Unfortunately, construction accidents will continue and people who have been hurt or families whose loved ones died must be fully aware of their alternatives.
Report: Fatal construction accidents rose by more than 11%
The Center for Construction Research and Training recently released its assessment of construction fatalities from 2011 to 2020 and came to some troubling conclusions. It analyzed the numbers from the Census for Fatal Occupational Injuries and found that construction and extraction averaged 963 fatalities per year in that decade. Around 78,000 suffered a non-fatal accident with injuries per year.
Hispanic workers were among the most vulnerable with 12.6 deaths for every 100,000 full-time equivalent workers. Overall, for every worker, it was 10 for every 100,000. Younger employees were found to have increased vulnerability to fatalities. From 2018 to 2020, the highest number of accidents were due to workers slipping, tripping and falling. During those three years, 376 workers died and nearly 23,000 were injured in these types of accidents. For 2020, roofers were the most vulnerable to workplace deaths with 47 for every 100,000 full-time equivalent workers. Helpers had the most injuries from 2018 to 2020.
Workplace injuries may warrant various forms of compensation
While this report focuses on the construction industry, Louisianans are often employed in offshore jobs where they are at similar risk as those who work in construction. They too could be in jeopardy due to explosives, heavy machinery, falling objects, losing their balance from substantial heights and other catalysts for injuries and fatalities. When this happens, the litany of challenges that come up can be overwhelming.
To make sure every aspect of a case is accurately investigated, evidence is gathered and compensation is maximized, it is important to have help from professionals who are experienced and well-regarded in legal circles and understand industrial, construction and workplace accidents. The personal and financial ramifications of construction accidents are extensive and having guidance immediately is wise.