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Heavy machinery is a critical part of construction work—it helps get big jobs done efficiently and safely when used correctly. But when these powerful machines are misused, poorly maintained, or operated by untrained workers, the results can be devastating. Accidents involving heavy equipment often lead to serious, life-altering injuries. A construction accident lawyer can help injured workers pursue the compensation they deserve and hold the responsible parties accountable. Our friends at The Eskesen Law Firm detail some of the injuries that can occur on machinery like this, below.
Crush Injuries
One of the most serious risks on any construction site is getting caught between moving equipment and a fixed object, or between two pieces of machinery. These crush injuries can lead to broken bones, internal organ damage, and even amputations. Forklifts, backhoes, and compactors are common sources of crush injuries when safety protocols are not strictly followed.
Amputations
Heavy machinery with cutting or rotating parts, such as power saws, conveyor belts, and augers, can cause traumatic amputations in a split second. Even experienced workers are at risk if machines lack proper guards, are defective, or if someone nearby makes a careless mistake. These injuries often result in permanent disability and long-term financial and emotional strain.
Head And Brain Injuries
Workers operating or working near heavy equipment may be struck by machinery arms, falling loads, or overturned vehicles. Even with a hard hat, a serious blow to the head can result in a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI), which may affect memory, cognitive ability, and balance. TBIs can have lasting effects, often requiring ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Falls from machinery, vehicle rollovers, or being thrown from a piece of equipment can result in spinal injuries. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury. These life-changing injuries often require extensive medical care, physical therapy, and home or vehicle modifications.
Burns And Electrocution
Some machinery involves high heat, flammable materials, or electrical components. Workers can suffer thermal burns from engine parts or chemical burns from leaking fluids. Contact with exposed wires or machinery that comes too close to power lines can also result in electrocution, causing serious internal injuries or death.
Repetitive Stress And Vibration Injuries
Not all injuries from heavy machinery happen in an instant. Workers who operate jackhammers, compactors, or vibrating machinery for hours each day can develop repetitive stress injuries or hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). These conditions may cause numbness, tingling, or loss of grip strength and worsen over time if not addressed.
Who’s Liable For Machinery Accidents?
In many cases, these injuries could have been prevented with better training, machine maintenance, or safety oversight. Liability may fall on:
- The employer, if they failed to train workers or ignored safety regulations
- A contractor or subcontractor, if their crew created unsafe conditions
- The equipment manufacturer, if a defect or malfunction caused the injury
- A third-party maintenance company, if poor repairs or inspections led to failure
A construction accident lawyer can investigate the incident, identify all responsible parties, and file a claim or lawsuit to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care. It is crucial to learn who can be held liable for a construction accident so that you can seek proper compensation from the at fault party.
Legal Support After A Serious Machinery Injury
Heavy machinery accidents can leave victims unable to work, struggling with chronic pain, or facing a lifetime of recovery. Workers’ compensation may not cover all of the costs, especially in cases involving third-party negligence.
If you or someone you love was seriously injured by heavy machinery on a construction site, contacting a construction accident lawyer is an important step. They can help protect your rights, build a strong case, and ensure you’re not left to shoulder the burden alone.