Boston Injury Lawyer Blog
Construction workers play a vital role in shaping our cities, but their jobs come with inherent risks. A recent accident in Boston, where two construction workers were injured in a crash caused by an allegedly impaired driver, highlights the dangers construction workers face on a daily basis. For injured workers, the path to recovery is often complex, involving not only physical and emotional challenges but also legal and financial hurdles.
Facts of the Boston Incident
Two construction workers were injured in a Boston crash when a vehicle struck a construction zone. According to reports, the driver, who was later arrested, allegedly operated the vehicle while impaired. Both workers sustained injuries requiring medical attention, disrupting their lives and livelihoods.
This incident underscores the hazards construction workers encounter, not only from the physical demands of their work but also from external threats, such as unsafe drivers near work zones. For injured workers and their families, the aftermath often involves navigating the workers’ compensation system, seeking medical treatment, and, in some cases, pursuing additional legal claims.
Common Risks Construction Workers Face
Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the United States, with workers exposed to a wide range of risks on the job. Some of the most common dangers include:
- Vehicle Accidents Near Work Zones
As demonstrated by the recent Boston crash, construction workers are often vulnerable to vehicles passing through or near work zones. Distracted or impaired drivers, in particular, pose a significant risk, leading to severe injuries and fatalities.
- Falls from Heights
Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in construction. Workers often operate on scaffolding, ladders, or elevated platforms, where even a small misstep can result in serious harm.
- Heavy Equipment Accidents
Construction sites are filled with heavy machinery like forklifts, cranes, and bulldozers. Accidents involving this equipment can occur due to operator error, mechanical failure, or insufficient training.
- Falling Objects
Tools, materials, and debris can fall unexpectedly on construction sites, putting workers at risk of head injuries, fractures, or worse.
- Exposure to Hazardous Substances
Construction workers frequently come into contact with harmful chemicals, asbestos, and other hazardous substances, which can lead to long-term health issues.
Legal Options for Injured Construction Workers
When construction workers are injured on the job, they often rely on workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Massachusetts law generally prohibits injured workers from suing their employers directly, but workers’ compensation provides a no-fault safety net.
However, there are situations where injured construction workers may pursue additional claims:
- Third-Party Liability: If a third party, such as a negligent driver, caused the injury, the worker can file a personal injury lawsuit against that party to seek damages not covered by workers’ compensation, including pain and suffering.
- Dram Shop Claims: If the negligent driver was overserved alcohol by a bar or restaurant, injured workers may have grounds for a dram shop claim.
- Product Liability: If defective equipment or materials caused the injury, the manufacturer or supplier might be held liable.
Lessons from the Boston Crash
This recent crash highlights the importance of safety measures in and around construction zones. Workers and employers can minimize risks by implementing proper training, using high-visibility clothing, and maintaining clear barriers between work zones and traffic. However, no precaution can fully protect workers from the negligence of others.
For injured workers, understanding their rights and options is critical to securing the compensation they need to recover. Seeking legal guidance early can help ensure all potential claims are pursued.
Discuss Your Accident with an Experienced Boston Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Boston construction accident, the experienced attorneys at Altman & Altman, LLP, are here to help. We understand the challenges construction workers face and are committed to fighting for your rights. Call us today at 800.481.6199 or contact us through our secure online form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.
