Construction work in Florida can expose workers to serious hazards involving heights, heavy equipment, electricity, falling objects, dangerous materials, and other job-site conditions.
Serrano Law is committed to helping injured workers and families understand the legal options that may be available after a serious construction accident or work-related death.
For many employees injured on a construction site, Florida workers’ compensation is the primary source of benefits. Depending on the circumstances, workers’ compensation may provide medical and disability benefits without requiring the employee to prove that the employer caused the accident.
In some cases, an injured worker may also have a separate personal injury claim against a third party whose negligence contributed to the accident. Potential third-party claims can depend on who employed the injured worker, the relationships among contractors and subcontractors, who controlled the work, and how the accident occurred.
Common causes of construction accidents include:
- Falls from heights, inadequate fall protection, and harness-related accidents
- Defective or improperly maintained tools and equipment
- Electrical accidents, fires, explosions, and exposure to hazardous substances
- Falling objects and struck-by accidents
- Vehicle and heavy-equipment accidents
- Slip, trip, and fall hazards
- Unsafe work practices or inadequate training
Construction accident cases can involve workers’ compensation benefits, contractor and subcontractor relationships, insurance coverage, and potential third-party liability. Florida law generally limits an employee’s ability to bring a personal injury lawsuit against an employer covered by workers’ compensation, although the law contains limited exceptions. Claims against other responsible parties may still be available depending on the facts.
The attorneys at Serrano Law can review the circumstances of a construction accident and help determine what legal options may be available. Contact Michael Serrano for a free and confidential consultation.