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Ann Arbor Construction Accident Lawyer

Have you been injured in a construction site accident? We can help you get fair compensation. Contact the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates for a free consultation today.

Did you know nearly 150,000 construction workers get seriously injured each year? Here in Ann Arbor, that statistic feels all too real. Were you hurt on a construction site? If so, then you're likely coping with physical pain, the stress of hefty medical expenses, and worries about lost wages.

Construction accidents can turn your life upside down in a heartbeat. But you have legal rights that can protect your interests. That's where we come in. At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, we support you every step of the way. Our experienced legal team is committed to getting you the compensation you need. Reach out to an Ann Arbor construction accident lawyer for a free consultation, and let's start rebuilding your life together.

The Ugly Truth About Construction Accidents

Construction plays an integral role in our growing city. For example, the Arbor South Project will introduce 1,000 new residential units and 76,000 square feet of commercial space. It includes three parking garages, an upscale hotel, and green spaces, with about 10-15% of the units designated as affordable housing.

While this progress is good news, the downside is that any construction project puts workers at risk for severe injuries or even fatalities. For instance, Michigan recorded 7,237 work zone crashes, leading to 20 deaths and 1,896 injuries in 2023. The statistics draw attention to the construction industry's need​ for better safety protocols.

The Deadliest Construction Site Accidents

Construction accidents encompass many incidents that can occur on a job site. These life-altering events often result from unsafe working conditions, inadequate safety measures, or the negligent actions of other parties. Among the most common types of incidents include:

  1. Falls from Heights: Whether from scaffolding, ladders, or unprotected edges, falls are a leading cause of serious injuries and deaths in construction. Workers can suffer traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, or spinal cord damage.
  2. Equipment-Related Injuries: Heavy machinery like cranes, forklifts, and bulldozers are essential but dangerous. Improper use, lack of training, or equipment failure can result in crushing injuries, amputations, or fatalities.
  3. Electrocutions: Construction sites often involve complex electrical systems. Contact with live wires, faulty equipment, or inadequate grounding can lead to severe burns, cardiac arrest, or death.
  4. Struck-By Incidents: Workers can be hit by falling objects, swinging equipment, or moving vehicles. These incidents can cause severe injuries, including head trauma, internal injuries, or fractures.

The most common on-site construction injuries in Michigan involve falls, being struck by an object, electrocutions, and getting caught in or between objects, aligning with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's "Fatal Four" causes of construction deaths.

 

 

 

Major Causes of Construction Accidents in Ann Arbor, MI

Construction sites are dynamic environments involving heavy machinery and complex operations. Despite stringent safety regulations, accidents still happen, sometimes with tragic consequences. Listed below are the leading causes of work-related accidents:

1. Safety Protocol Violations

The aim is to minimize job site hazards so every worker goes home safely at the end of the day. Unfortunately, accidents skyrocket when strict enforcement or adherence to these rules is not enforced. Violations may involve:

  • Neglecting to wear proper protective gear
  • Bypassing safety checks
  • Failing to secure hazardous areas

Protocol violations create a recipe for disaster. The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration fined 126 construction firms in 2020 for safety violations. In 2024, MIOSHA hit LG Energy Solution with $175,000 in fines for 10 citations, including eight labeled as "serious."

2. Inadequate Training

Proper training should prepare workers for all the challenges they face on a construction site. But sadly, poor training is still a big problem. Injury risks increase when workers lack proper training to operate machinery, handle hazardous materials, or follow safety procedures. It's a serious issue that can lead to unnecessary injuries and even fatalities.

3. Equipment Failure

Construction work relies heavily on various types of equipment, such as:

  • Cranes
  • Bulldozers
  • Nail guns
  • Drills

Equipment failures lead to non-fatal and fatal injuries due to poor maintenance, manufacturing defects, or improper use. Regular inspections and timely maintenance ensure all equipment meets safety standards.

4. Environmental Hazards

Dangerous environmental situations escalate risks for workers. The worst conditions include:

  • Extreme weather
  • Unstable ground
  • Exposure to toxic substances

According to OSHA, between 50% and 70% of outdoor, heat-related fatalities happen after a few days of working in a hot or warm climate. Under these conditions, employees doing roofing, road work, and electrical utilities have the highest risks.

5. Negligence and Human Error

At the heart of many construction accidents are simple human mistakes or negligence. This can range from a momentary lapse in judgment to systemic issues within the management structure. Supervisors may overlook critical safety measures, or workers might take shortcuts to save time.

Ann Arbor job site accidents are often preventable when workplaces address the root causes. For those injured due to another party's negligence, understanding these causes is the first step towards protecting your rights. Were you or a loved one injured? Speak to an Ann Arbor construction accident lawyer who can evaluate your personal injury claim for free.

 

 

 

Steps to Take Immediately After a Construction Accident

A construction accident is a scary experience. Even the toughest worker can unravel in that moment. Once the initial shock wears off, the injury victim must take a few key steps to get to safety, protect their rights, and prepare for potential legal claims. Here are the most common actions victims take:

1. Report the Accident to a Supervisor

Notify your supervisor or employer about the accident as soon as possible. This step matters for several reasons:

  • It ensures that the incident is officially recorded
  • Initiates the workers' compensation process
  • Helps your employer take steps to prevent future accidents.

Make sure you provide a detailed account of what happened, including the accident's time, location, and circumstances.

2. Document the Incident

Write down everything you remember about the incident while it's still fresh in your mind. Include details such as the sequence of events, conditions at the site, and any equipment involved. Personal notes are useful if your memory fades over time or disputes arise over what happened.

3. Gather Photos, Witness Statements, and Personal Notes

Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Any witnesses? Ask them to provide statements about what they saw. Witness statements can back up your story and make your case stronger. Well-organized, detailed notes can also work in your favor.

4. Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety matters most. Think your injuries are minor? Think again. Some injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and TBIs don't show symptoms right away but can get worse over time. Visit a doctor right away to get checked out, prevent complications, and document injuries for future claims.

5. Preserve Evidence

Keep up with evidence such as damaged personal protective equipment, clothing, or tools. Do not alter or dispose of any items involved in the accident. Store them in a safe space until an attorney or insurance agent reviews them.

6. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Consult with an Ann Arbor personal injury lawyer experienced in construction workplace incidents as soon as possible. They can guide you on which course of action to take. A lawyer will offer legal services ranging from filing a claim to dealing with insurance companies. Your attorney can ensure you receive the maximum compensation.

Your recovery. Your legal rights. What you do following an accident impacts both these areas. Need help safeguarding your future? Construction accident lawyers can take a load of legal work off your hands. Schedule a free consultation to jumpstart your claim.

 

 

 

Overview of Relevant Laws and Regulations

A wide array of laws are in place when it comes to construction sites to ensure safety and accountability. Here's an informative look at the laws and regulations that come into play.

  • Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration: MIOSHA is responsible for protecting the safety and health of Michigan workers. They establish standards for construction companies to investigate accidents and impose penalties on the responsible parties.
  • Federal OSHA Guidelines: This agency provides broader guidelines that all construction sites in the United States must adhere to. These include rules on proper scaffolding, electrical safety, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Worker's Compensation Laws in Michigan: Workers' Comp is a state-mandated insurance program that benefits employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs, ensuring workers receive financial support during recovery.
  • Employer vs. Third-Party Liability: Often, the employer is held responsible for ensuring a safe work environment. However, third-party entities, such as equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, or property owners, can also be liable if their negligence contributed to the accident. For instance, if faulty machinery from a third-party supplier caused the fatal incident, the supplier could be held accountable in addition to the employer.

If you've lost a loved one due to a construction accident, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you explore your legal options. By adhering to MIOSHA and OSHA guidelines, as well as exploring worker's compensation and third-party liability, families can seek the compensation they need to rebuild their lives by filing a wrongful death claim.

How Michigan Protects the Rights of Injured Construction Workers

A construction accident turns your life upside down. Now, you're on a tough journey to recovery. Whether it's a minor injury or something more severe, Michigan has legal protections to support and secure the rights of workers hurt on the job. Here's a glimpse into the law:

  • Right to a Safe Workplace: Federal and state laws require employers to provide an environment free of known hazards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets and enforces standards to ensure workplace safety.
  • Right to File a Worker's Compensation Claim: This system provides financial support and medical benefits to employees hurt on the job without the need to prove the employer's fault.
  • Protection Against Retaliation: Michigan law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who file for workers’ compensation benefits. Retaliation can take many forms, including termination, demotion, or any adverse change in employment conditions. If you are facing retaliation, you can take legal action against your employer.

Beyond worker's compensation, there may be the potential to pursue a construction accident lawsuit against third parties for negligence. These parties include contractors, equipment manufacturers, or other companies. Lawsuits compensate you for pain and suffering beyond what worker's compensation offers.

What to Expect When You Pursue a Construction Accident Case

In 2022, Michigan reported 83,600 non-fatal occupational injuries and illnesses in the private industry, with 48,200 cases involving days away from work, job transfer, or restrictions. In such cases, construction accident attorneys can advocate for injured workers who seek (and deserve) justice. Here's a glance into the legal process:

  1. Initial Consultation: It starts with a friendly meeting where the lawyer gets to know your situation, explains your legal options, and outlines the possible next steps. During this consult, you have the chance to ask questions. If you feel comfortable with the lawyer, consider hiring them to represent you.
  2. Investigation and Gathering Evidence: Lawyers conduct comprehensive investigations involving evidence such as accident reports, eyewitness statements, photographs, and expert testimonies. This step helps establish liability and negligence.
  3. Negotiation and Settlement: Many personal injury cases are settled out of court. Your lawyer will negotiate with the responsible party's insurance company to reach a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced lawyer knows how to counter lowball offers and push for a settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses.
  4. Court Proceedings if Necessary: What happens when a fair settlement isn't reached? Your lawyer will take the case to court. They'll build a strong case for you, showing how the other party's negligence caused your accident and how it's affected your life.

Think of your Ann Arbor personal injury lawyer as your partner. They'll stand by your side from the start of your claim to a favorable resolution. Choosing a lawyer specializing in construction accidents ensures your case is handled professionally.

Financial Compensation for Construction Accident Victims

Construction site injuries are tough on workers and their families. These heartbreaking incidents leave victims dealing with ongoing physical pain, emotional turmoil, and economic hardship—all due to someone else's negligence. Compensation can ease some of the burden. The economic and non-economic payments cover the following:

Medical Expenses

One of the most costly expenses involves healthcare treatments, such as:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Surgeries
  • Hospital stays
  • Medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Ongoing medical care

Payments for medical bills ensure that victims can receive the necessary treatment without the added stress of financial strain.

Lost Wages

Injuries from construction accidents often result in time off work. Compensation can cover the income you would have earned during your recovery period. In cases of long-term disability, victims may also be entitled to receive money for future lost earnings.

Pain and Suffering

Non-economic damages are also available and cover expenses such as pain and suffering, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and the negative impact on the victim's quality of life. Monetary support varies depending on the severity and long-term effects of the injuries.

Disability and Rehabilitation Costs

If a construction accident results in a permanent disability, victims may need the following:

  • Long-term rehabilitation
  • Assistive devices
  • Home modifications
  • Other accommodations

Financial support for disability and rehabilitation ensures access to resources for adapting and trying to regain your independence in this new chapter of your life.

Factors Affecting the Value of Your Claim

The amount of compensation an injured construction worker may receive depends on several factors:

  • Severity of Injuries: The more severe the injuries, the higher the medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and impact on the victim's life, typically resulting in higher compensation.
  • Impact on Future Earning Capacity: If the injuries affect the victim's ability to work and earn a living in the future, compensation will account for this loss. This includes considering the victim's age, occupation, and earning potential.
  • Degree of Negligence: The other party's negligence level matters a lot. For example, the law bars you from receiving compensation if you're more than 50% responsible for the injury.

Did someone's negligence cause your injury? You have the right to seek damages for your economic losses. Consult with an experienced Michigan construction accident lawyer to hold negligent parties accountable and recover the fair compensation you deserve.

 

 

 

Traits of a Top Michigan Construction Accident Lawyer

Construction sites are among the most hazardous workplaces. Even with the best safety measures, accidents still happen. Finding the right lawyer can make all the difference if you've been hurt in a construction accident in Michigan. Here’s what you should consider when choosing a Michigan construction accident lawyer:

1. Experience in Construction Accident Cases

An experienced lawyer handling construction accident claims needs a deep understanding of personal injury law, construction site regulations, accident investigation, insurance negotiations, and securing settlements.

2. Knowledge of Michigan Laws and Regulations

It's important to find a lawyer who is well-versed in Michigan's construction accident laws, including workers' compensation laws, MIOSHA safety regulations, and relevant federal laws. This in-depth knowledge can ensure your rights are protected, and all legal options are explored.

3. Proven Results

Look for attorneys with a successful track record in construction accident cases, including securing substantial settlements or verdicts for their clients. Many lawyers showcase their successful case results on their websites. A strong track record indicates that the lawyer has the skills and determination to win your case.

4. Strong Negotiation Skills

In construction accident cases, most settlements happen out of court, so negotiation skills are essential. Look for a lawyer known for being a tough but fair negotiator.

5. Litigation Background

It's important to choose a lawyer with courtroom experience. This ensures that if your case goes to court, your lawyer is ready to present a strong case. Trial experience also adds leverage during settlement negotiations.

6. Client Testimonials and Reviews

Client testimonials and reviews can provide useful insight into a lawyer’s professionalism, communication skills, and success rate. Reading about other clients' experiences can help you gauge how the lawyer handles cases and treats clients. Look for lawyers with positive feedback and a reputation for being responsive and compassionate.

7. Clear Communication

Effective communication is key to a successful attorney-client relationship. Your lawyer should be able to explain the legal process in a way that you can understand and keep you informed about the progress of your case. During your initial consultation, consider how the lawyer communicates with you. Do they listen to your concerns? Do they provide clear answers to your questions? Good communication keeps you in the loop.

8. Compassion and Empathy

Construction site accidents can raise your stress levels. Find a lawyer who cares about your well-being and is committed to helping you through this tough time. A compassionate, empathetic lawyer will fight for your rights and provide the emotional support you need.

9. Clear Pricing Policy

Before hiring a lawyer, understand their fee structure. At Christopher Trainor & Associates, our Ann Arbor construction accident lawyers operate on a no-win, no-fee arrangement, so we only receive payment for our services if you secure a settlement or judgment.

 

 

Partner With Trusted Michigan Construction Accident Lawyers

In a split second, a construction accident can leave you seriously injured, buried under medical bills, and facing an uncertain future.

The days following a construction accident throw you into a new, uncertain reality. It's a chapter in your life filled with agonizing pain, mental stress, and money troubles. You must grapple with these changes while trying to hold responsible parties accountable. Without skilled legal support, your struggle might seem impossible to press forward.

At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, we understand your struggle and are here to help. With years of experience and a proven track record of over $250 million in settlements, we offer the professional support you need. Our legal team doesn't back down from fighting for our clients. They deserve respect, justice, and compensation. And so do you!

Contact us today at 248-886-8650 for a free consultation with one of our Ann Arbor construction accident lawyers. Let us help you start your journey toward recovery.

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