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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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:
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."
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.
Construction work relies heavily on various types of equipment, such as:
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.
Dangerous environmental situations escalate risks for workers. The worst conditions include:
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.
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.
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:
Notify your supervisor or employer about the accident as soon as possible. This step matters for several reasons:
Make sure you provide a detailed account of what happened, including the accident's time, location, and circumstances.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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:
One of the most costly expenses involves healthcare treatments, such as:
Payments for medical bills ensure that victims can receive the necessary treatment without the added stress of financial strain.
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.
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.
If a construction accident results in a permanent disability, victims may need the following:
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.
The amount of compensation an injured construction worker may receive depends on several factors:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
