Fatal Construction Accident Caused by Scaffold Collapse
Scaffold collapses are a leading cause of construction site accidents in Arizona and elsewhere in the nation. Loose scaffolding is a common problem at many construction sites that cause devastating falls resulting in catastrophic injuries or even construction accident death in Arizona. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor's 2006 statistics, 88 workers died from scaffold collapse accidents or falls from scaffolding. Falls from ladders contributed to 733 deaths and 160 workers died as a result of falls from rooftops.
We see examples of scaffold collapses too often. According to a news report, one such incident occurred recently at an apartment building construction site where a construction worker fell to his death and at least one other was injured after a scaffold collapsed. The workers were repairing a façade of the building. When one of the workers moved from one scaffold to another, it gave way. One of the workers fell five stories to his death. Officials are investigating the cause of the scaffold collapse. Violations are expected to be issued in this case, the news article said.
There are stringent federal and state regulations when it comes to construction sites. When companies or contractors fail to adhere to those standards and a worker is injured as a result of such violations, the contractor/firm could face severe fines and penalties.
In cases where workers are seriously injured because of improperly constructed scaffolds or lack of safety devices such as harnesses, a third party that was responsible for following the safety procedures could be held financially liable. In cases where the injuries result in death, the worker's family may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of future earnings and other related damages.
If you or a loved has been injured in an Arizona construction accident, the construction site accident lawyers at Breyer Law Offices P.C. may be able to help. Our skilled personal injury lawyers have helped numerous clients who have been injured or disabled in construction accidents. We always offer free consultations to injured victims and their families.
Source report: http://www.wnyc.org/news/articles/138980
