Construction Accident Lawyer in Virginia

We've Won Millions in Our Decades of Experience - Call (571) 290-2390

Construction workers perform some of the most dangerous jobs in the United States and as such often suffer serious injuries. Thankfully, Virginia law requires employers with two or more workers to carry workers' compensation insurance. However, when workers' comp isn't sufficient, or your accident was caused by negligence, you may need the assistance of an experienced construction accident attorney in Virginia.

Why Choose The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC?

When it comes to protecting the rights of our clients, our Alexandria construction accident lawyers are not afraid of standing up to large businesses or insurance companies in Virginia. Our strategic efforts have led to countless victories and substantial settlements, which earned us inclusion in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. As our client, you can feel at ease in knowing that we will do everything possible to help you obtain maximum compensation.

You can also expect to receive the following:

• Direct access to a Spanish-speaking attorney
• An initial evaluation of your case
• A comprehensive understanding of your rights

Our law firm has represented workers injured by falls, falling objects, machinery, power tools, malfunctioning tools, and failing safety equipment. With over 75 years of experience and thousands of personal injury and workers' comp cases successfully resolved, we are confident in our abilities to fight for the compensation you need and deserve.

Common Types of Construction Accidents

A construction accident refers to any incident or event that occurs on a construction site resulting in injury, property damage, or loss of life. Here are some common types of construction accidents:

• Falls: Falls are one of the most common types of construction accidents and can occur from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or other elevated surfaces.
• Struck by Object: Workers can be struck by objects such as tools, building materials, or machinery, either falling from above or being inadvertently propelled.
• Electrocution: Electrical accidents can happen when workers come into contact with live wires, faulty electrical equipment, or power lines.
• Caught in/between Objects: Workers may get caught in or between heavy machinery, equipment, or collapsing structures, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
• Collapse of Structures: Buildings, walls, trenches, or excavation sites can collapse unexpectedly, trapping or crushing workers beneath them.
• Machinery Accidents: Mishaps involving construction machinery such as cranes, forklifts, bulldozers, or excavators can cause severe injuries or fatalities.
• Fires and Explosions: Construction sites often involve flammable materials and hazardous substances, making them susceptible to fires or explosions.
• Overexertion: Strains, sprains, and other injuries can occur due to overexertion from tasks like lifting heavy objects, repetitive motions, or working in awkward positions.
• Chemical Exposure: Workers may be exposed to harmful chemicals, gases, or fumes, leading to respiratory problems, burns, or other health issues.
• Slip and Fall Accidents: Slippery surfaces, debris, or uneven terrain can cause workers to slip, trip, or fall, resulting in injuries.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

Construction accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, ranging from human error to environmental conditions. Here are some common causes of construction accidents:

• Lack of Proper Training: Inadequate training for workers on how to safely operate machinery, handle materials, or execute tasks can lead to accidents.
• Poor Safety Culture: Failure to prioritize safety, inadequate enforcement of safety protocols, or a lack of safety awareness among workers and management can contribute to accidents.
• Unsafe Working Conditions: Hazardous conditions such as slippery surfaces, cluttered work areas, inadequate lighting, or poorly maintained equipment increase the risk of accidents.
• Negligence: Failure to follow safety regulations and procedures, cutting corners, or disregarding warning signs can result in accidents.
• Falls: Working at heights without proper fall protection measures, such as guardrails, safety nets, or harnesses, can lead to falls and serious injuries.
• Equipment Failure: Malfunctioning or improperly maintained machinery, tools, or equipment can cause accidents, such as collapse, electrocution, or mechanical failures.
• Communication Issues: Poor communication between workers, supervisors, or subcontractors can lead to misunderstandings, errors, or accidents on the construction site.
• Time Pressure: Tight deadlines and pressure to complete projects quickly may lead to rushed work, increased risk-taking behavior, and ultimately, accidents.
• Inadequate Planning and Risk Assessment: Failure to properly plan construction activities, identify potential hazards, and implement appropriate risk mitigation strategies can result in accidents.
• Environmental Factors: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, high winds, or extreme temperatures, can create unsafe working conditions and increase the likelihood of accidents.
• Subcontractor Coordination: Lack of coordination and oversight among subcontractors working on different aspects of the project can lead to conflicts, delays, and safety lapses.
• Fatigue: Long hours, demanding schedules, and physically demanding work can lead to fatigue among workers, impairing judgment and increasing the risk of accidents.

Fatal Construction Accidents

As a construction worker, you are undoubtedly aware of the intense and extreme dangers you are facing every day while on the job. Sometimes, construction site accidents result in fatalities, which is tragic for all involved.

While accidents can happen as a result of any number of things, some accidents are more prevalent than others, otherwise known as the “fatal four":

• Falls from heights
• Electrocutions
• Being struck by an object
• Being caught in between objects

If you are the surviving family member of a loved one who died in a construction accident, we can help you pursue justice on their behalf by filing a wrongful death claim. You and your family have enough on your plate. Leave the worrying to us so you can focus on healing.

Workers’ Compensation for Construction Accidents

Administered by the Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission, workers can receive partial payment of their wages, payment of their medical care, compensation for their permanent disability, and vocational rehabilitation as part of their claim.

While you don't have to prove negligence in order to receive workers' comp benefits, you may be pressured into accepting a compensation offer that won't even begin to cover the costs of your accident.

Our team is ready to guide you through the workers' compensation process!

When Negligence Causes Construction Accidents

Factors such as faulty communication, human error, and management oversight play a large role in the injuries which occur every day on Virginia construction sites. The owners and overseers of these sites have the responsibility to create and maintain a safe environment for all workers. Failure to do so can be considered negligence.

When these accidents occur, the responsibility and liability can be placed on a number of parties. These include the construction companies for failing to provide safe equipment or perform proper safety inspections. Liability can also be placed on contractors or subcontractors, as well as manufacturers or material suppliers.

If a third-party's negligence contributed to your injury, our construction accident lawyers in Virginia can help you file a personal injury claim for the compensation you deserve.

If you have questions about your options as an injured construction worker, please feel free to call us at (571) 290-2390 to schedule a free consultation* today.