Arizona Construction Accident Lawyer Blog

Construction Spending Rising, Phoenix Construction Accidents Likely to Follow

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:11:51 -0700

Recent reports from Bloomberg Businessweek and from the Commerce Department of the United States indicate that spending in the construction industry, especially in home building, is now at a three-year high, and will continue to rise, especially in thriving metropolises like Phoenix. This also means that construction of more homes, and without significant attention, increased building will lead to additional Phoenix construction accidents and the subsequent deaths and injuries.

Reports show that construction spending nationwide has increased by around nine percent over the past 12 months in the homebuilding sector and that commercial spending is not far behind. In Arizona, and especially in Phoenix, multiple new road projects, housing developments, and business sites are currently in the works and construction workers should take extra precaution to keep themselves in good shape for new and increased demand.

Protecting Yourself from Tempe Construction Back Injuries

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 16:12:50 -0700

Tempe construction accident back injuries are among the most common injuries suffered by construction workers in the city, throughout the state and nationwide. According to reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are more than 3.05 million cases of injury recorded on construction sites every year.

Nearly 200,000 of these accidents involve injuries to the upper or lower back, with the majority of injuries involving the lower back. Construction accidents also result in large losses for companies and for employees due to the number of days of work that are missed as a result. Reports indicate that nearly 950,000 cases of injuries on construction sites each year result in days missed from work and that most cases of injury, especially those involving lower back injuries, often result in multiple days missed.

How to Prevent Fall Deaths in Arizona Construction Accidents

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 17:26:15 -0700

Arizona construction accidents all seem to have a few things in common: there was negligence involved on the part of at least one person and that negligence likely violates at least one regulation set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The easiest way for construction site managers, companies, and laborers to prevent fall deaths in AZ construction accidents is to get smart and do these three simple things that officials believe can stop hazardous accidents from occurring:

Plan ahead to ensure that you have all of the correct machinery, safety equipment, and personnel to handle a job on time, on task, and safely.
Provide equipment that is meant for the job you need to get done and make certain that it is up to standard and up to code.
Train your workers so that they know not only how to handle equipment, but also dangerous situations and their own personal safety out on the site.

Work Zone Safety Can Reduce Arizona Construction Accidents

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:40:29 -0700

In an effort to reduce car crashes throughout the state, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has taken on multiple reconstruction and repair projects on roads, traffic lights, and road shoulders. The more live projects there are, the higher the likelihood of a serious Arizona construction accident that only work zone safety measures can mitigate. Here are some ways residents and workers can keep construction zones safe for everyone.

Watch for construction signs and do what they say, whether you are driving, walking, or riding a bicycle.
Do not play in or around construction sites.
Expect the unexpected and stay away from construction sites as much as you possibly can, including walking on the other side of the road or driving a different route.

How Non-Workers Can Be Involved in an Arizona Construction Accident

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 16:44:52 -0700

When you think of an Arizona construction accident, you probably think of laborers being injured by faulty equipment or negligence, but you may not realize that bystanders and children may also be injured in these types of incidents as well. Here are just a few of the ways that non-workers can be hurt in an incident on or near a construction site.

Children who play in poorly secured construction areas may suffer slip-and-fall accidents, broken bones, head injuries, and even cuts and stab wounds.
People walking by a construction site during a demolition or other major process may be struck by flying debris or may slip on excess debris that has fallen onto the sidewalk.
Individuals walking, driving, or cycling near a construction site may be injured if a faulty piece of equipment falls onto the street or throws objects onto the sidewalk.

Safety Tips for Avoiding an Arizona Construction Nail Gun Accident

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 16:04:21 -0700

Construction workers are exposed to hundreds upon hundreds of health and safety hazards every day, and for those using power tools on the job, an Arizona construction nail accident may not be very far away. A worker may have a claim for negligence if a third party hurts them while using a nail gun or other tools. While common sense is important in avoiding any on-the-job injury, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that there are several key ways that construction workers and construction supervisors can reduce the risk of fatal and serious injury nail gun accidents.

Provide or seek training for proper use of nail guns.
Put procedures in place for work using nail guns.
Make use of the full sequential trigger on your commercial nail gun.
Ensure that everyone in the vicinity of the work is outfitted with proper safety gear and equipment.
Teach first aid and ensure medical supplies are nearby.

The Causes of Arizona Construction Accidents with Tower Cranes

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 13:02:25 -0700

As experienced Arizona crane accident injury attorneys, we know that many accidents on construction sites throughout Arizona may be caused by misuse of tower cranes or other crane-related mishaps. According to Tower Crane Support (TWC), around 38 percent of tower crane accidents on construction sites happen while in operation.

An additional 31 percent occur during assembly and disassembly, and yet another 23 percent are caused by strong winds when the crane is not properly situated for adverse conditions. Recent nationwide statistics reported by Crane Accidents indicate a minimum of 200 deaths a year as a result of tower crane accidents at construction sites.

Water, Rest, and Shade Reduce Arizona Construction Accidents

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 16:19:13 -0700

During summer months, the number of accidents involving Arizona construction workers skyrockets, according to news reports. This is due, in part, to the increased number of construction projects that take place in during that time. But exhaustion and dehydration may also play a role. With air temperatures alone sitting well above 100 degrees and asphalt temperatures rising as much as 20 degrees above the current air temperature, construction workers may be prone to severe dehydration and heat stroke.

Heat stroke and dehydration may lead to delirium, fatigue, and an inability to focus, which can cause other severe on-the-job accidents like incorrect operation of equipment or construction site falls. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nearly 4,200 workers throughout the United States suffer every year from heat-related illnesses sustained on the job at construction sites.

The Risk of Asbestos Exposure for Arizona Construction Workers

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 15:23:50 -0700

As experienced Arizona construction accident attorneys, we are concerned about the exposure of construction workers and contractors to large amounts of asbestos during the construction process and the significant physical perils this exposure can cause. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies asbestos as a Class A human carcinogen due to the harmful effects the substance has on the human body when it is inhaled or otherwise ingested.

Construction workers who are exposed to asbestos during construction or demolition may suffer from respiratory illnesses and certain cancers, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Additionally, the families of construction workers may be exposed to the same health threats when asbestos fibers are carried home on clothing or in the worker’s hair.

Top Five Tips for Avoiding Injuries in Yuma Construction Accidents

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 16:02:58 -0700

Recent news reports indicate that the Yuma economy is bouncing back and the large number of new construction projects for buildings and roads is a sign that these reports are accurate. With all the new construction around, it is important for construction workers to stay as safe as possible at work to avoid serious injuries. The following are some safety tips for construction workers:

Watch how you lift objects and make sure you’re doing it properly.
When you’re working at low levels, get low. That means kneeling down or sitting down. Don’t try to bend over.
Balance your weight as much as possible. If you have a lot to hook onto your tool belt, spread it out.
Keep your arms and wrists at neutral to avoid injuries.
Use the right tools in the proper manner and hold them correctly.

What to Do if You’re Injured in a Yuma Construction Accident

Although some Yuma construction accidents can be avoided by workers if they utilize proper safety techniques, some workers will still be injured at work due to the negligence of a third party. If you are hurt in a construction accident while on site in Yuma, you should seek medical attention as quickly as possible through the Workers Compensation system and inform your employer in writing of your injuries. Afterward, be sure to file all of your claims and paperwork with Workers Compensation. It is also a good idea to take photographs of the injuries you sustained so that you can be sure they are completely and accurately documented. Finally, you would also be well-advised to contact a skilled Yuma construction accident injury attorney.

What a Yuma Construction Accident Attorney Could to Do to Assist You

If you are hurt in a Yuma construction accident you may be having trouble collecting enough money from Arizona Workers’ Compensation to cover your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. You may be entitled to collect additional funds from the at-fault party. The Husband and Wife Law Team negotiates for a fair settlement above and beyond what injury victims receive from Workers Compensation to ensure that they are able to make a full recovery and not go into debt from their medical expenses and lack of ability to work. If you were hurt on-the-job, reach out to the Breyer Law Offices, P.C. for support today.

Fatal Arizona Construction Accidents: Facts and Figures

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 15:30:58 -0700

As experienced Phoenix, AZ construction accident lawyers, we never forget that construction workers make our cities move and grow--they build our roads, factories, homes, schools, hospitals, and more. Construction workers also endure daily hazards that can lead to serious injuries if proper regulations aren’t followed at the worksite. Construction workers are often exposed to dangers like electric shock, demolition, heights, and the depths of excavation. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the construction industry sees the highest number of fatal injuries in any private industry at 9.7 deaths per 100,000 workers. That is nearly three times the fatality rate for all other workers combined. In Arizona, where new roads, businesses, and buildings are constantly breaking ground, these numbers hold firm.

What to Do if Your Loved One Was Killed in a Fatal Arizona Construction Accident

If your loved one was killed in a fatal Arizona construction accident, the following are steps that you should take to ensure that your rights are upheld:

Gather documentation from the hospital and from your loved one’s employer detailing the injuries and work duties that led to their death;
File a claim with Worker's Compensation for your loved one’s benefits that should be paid due to their death occurring at work;
Take pictures of the scene of the accident; and
Obtain copies of any reports.

Why Contact an Arizona Construction Accident Attorney

Many people believe that they can handle claims from an Arizona construction accident on their own, but the best way to handle your case is to contact an experienced attorney who can help you to assert your rights. The Husband and Wife Law Team understand what it takes to win a construction accident claim. In fact, a verdict of the Husband and Wife Law Team's appeared in a magazine detailing the Top Verdicts in Arizona. Alexis and Mark Breyer will help you determine what the best way is to proceed with your claim. Contact the Breyer Law Offices, P.C. today to get started on your case and learn all your options.

What Causes Pinal County Forklift Accidents?

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 16:11:34 -0700

As experienced Pinal County construction accident lawyers, we know that construction is not only a dangerous job, but a demanding one, and that it requires your attention to be on multiple tasks and risk factors at once. We also know that inattention causes a large number of needless construction accidents every year, including forklift accidents. Forklift accidents can also happen in a myriad of other ways, such as:

The forklift operator is not watching where they are going and strikes another crew member.
The forklift accelerator jams and will not stop, running into scaffolding or hitting individuals.
The forklift fails and drops its load on the guide or on other crew members.

No matter how a forklift accident occurs, the people who are injured should reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney for assistance.

Pinal County Forklift Accidents and Construction Fatality Statistics

Every Pinal County forklift accident has the potential to cause serious injuries and fatalities, and the people who are involved will likely need large amounts of medical care and will experience lengthy recovery periods. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the occurrence of roughly 1,250 deaths in the construction industry nationwide each year. Nearly 50 of the deaths reported in statistics are the direct result of the use of construction equipment, like forklifts. Forklifts and other equipment are also used in warehousing and other industries and may cause multiple deaths and injuries in those industries each year as well.

Why Reach Out to a Pinal County Forklift Accidents Attorney

Construction workers who are injured in Pinal County forklift accidents should assert and protect their rights by calling a skilled personal injury attorney. Attorneys Alexis and Mark Breyer know that many workers are led to believe that the only compensation they can receive from workplace injuries comes from worker’s compensation, but there are sometimes ways of filing a personal injury claim in addition if a third party was involved in causing the injury. We help construction workers and forklift operators who are hurt at work by investigating to see if there are any additional parties outside the worker’s own company who may potentially share the fault for the injuries suffered. Our settlements often include full compensation for all medical bills and injuries, lost wages, and time away from work, as well as other damages caused by a workplace accident. Call the attorneys at the Breyer Law Offices, P.C. today for help assessing your case and asserting your rights.

How Arizona Construction Scaffolding Accidents Happen

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 16:34:10 -0700

As experienced Arizona construction scaffolding accident attorneys, we know that construction workers often face dangerous work conditions on a daily basis. Due to the large number of individual contracting companies that may work on one job site, there may often be little workers and foremen can do to keep everyone, including themselves, safe on the job. Scaffolding accidents in Arizona are unfortunately common and can occur when:

Scaffolding is improperly built and falls apart;
Scaffolding tips over due to unlevel ground or flooring space, or after being hit by a piece of construction equipment; or
A worker falls or is knocked from high scaffolding.

No matter how the accidents occur, many workers suffer serious injuries and should reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney.

What to Do if You Are Injured in an Arizona Construction Scaffolding Accident

Workers who are injured in Arizona construction scaffolding accidents should first and foremost get medical attention right away. A doctor should evaluate even those workers who feel their injuries are not serious. Next, those workers with injuries should file a Workers Compensation claim. Many workers believe that this is as far as their case should and can go. However, if you are injured in a scaffolding accident and someone else from outside your company is to blame for your suffering, you should also reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney for assistance and advice.

What an Arizona Construction Scaffolding Accident Injury Attorney Would Do to Help

Arizona construction scaffolding accidents often lead to serious injuries, and those workers who are hurt in these accidents will need assistance from a skilled Arizona scaffolding accident injury lawyer in order to secure fair compensation. The Husband and Wife Law Team work with injured construction workers to develop a case against the negligent party. We negotiate for compensation that will help cover lost income, additional medical expenses, and personal suffering over the long term. We do whatever it takes to help injury victims get back on their feet in as little time as possible. Call attorneys Alexis and Mark Breyer today for help with your case.

How Payson Work Injuries Happen When Involved in a Car Accident While Working

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 16:53:18 -0700

As experienced Payson work injury attorneys, we know that many workers are hurt in car crashes on the job in Arizona. Taxi drivers, truck drivers, and bus drivers, among other service workers, are at an increased risk for being involved in a car crash in Payson since their jobs require them to work from a vehicle. Many Payson work injuries in car accidents happen either because a worker driving a vehicle becomes distracted or fatigued, or because another driver on the road commits a traffic violation or negligent act that causes a crash. These actions may include running a red light, changing lanes without signaling, speeding, and multiple other violations.

Payson Work Injury Statistics in Car Crashes

Every year, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reports the occurrence of nearly 150 car crashes in Payson, which include some Payson work injuries that affect workers who drive throughout the day. These accidents result in injuries to more than 50 people who are involved in the crashes. Statewide, more than 4,500 crashes happen each year that involve workers such as garbage truck drivers, bus drivers, taxi drivers, semi truck drivers, and drivers of other vehicles, such as cement mixers, fire trucks, ambulances, and tow trucks. Approximately 1,000 of these collisions result in injuries to people involved.

Why Involve a Payson Work Injury Attorney

Workers who suffer Payson work injuries while on the job may sometimes face a difficult time getting the support they need; therefore, a conversation with a skilled Payson work injury attorney may be in their best interests. The Husband and Wife Law Team can help victims who were injured in a car crash while on the job get the compensation they need from the other driver or from their own company to cover medical treatments, time required off work not covered by Worker’s Compensation, and other additional damages. We do what it takes to help victims get justice and get on the path to recovery with the least amount of stress possible. When you are hurt while you are working, the law can be complex and many times victims have two types of claims that need to be discussed with lawyers. Call the attorneys at the Breyer Law Offices, P.C. today for help with your case.

Phoenix Work Accident: Man Injured in Trucking Business Explosion

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 13:40:00 -0700

As Phoenix work accident lawyers, we were sorry to hear about a man critically injured in a workplace fire on the night of June 7 at a trucking business located near 28th Avenue and Osborn Road, according to AZ Central. The employee of the business was welding when an explosion occurred. The man was badly burned and taken to the hospital in extreme critical condition. Our thoughts and prayers are with the man and his family today, and we wish him a full recovery.

How Did This Phoenix Work Accident Occur?

Investigators are still unclear as to how this Phoenix welding accident occurred. In cases like this, we typically see causes like faulty equipment, unsafe working environment, and lack of training or emergency preparation. Businesses have a responsibility to keep employees safe and offer a safe workplace. Unfortunately, many employees are hurt every year because of unsafe equipment and other working conditions. There are many outstanding questions for this employee's accident. Injury lawyers would have to look into what exactly caused the accident. This worker may have an injury claim and a worker's compensation claim. The two are different but are both important in pursuing.

How to Avoid Phoenix Work Accidents

Not all Phoenix work accidents are avoidable, but there are many things you can do as an employee or business owner to reduce the risks. This includes:

Make sure your equipment is properly maintained and in good working condition. Have it inspected by an expert if possible.
Enroll in extended training on all equipment and tools.
Follow all safety precautions.
Have emergency equipment within easy reach, such as a fire extinguisher and medical kit.

Contact a Phoenix Work Injury Attorney

An experienced Phoenix work injury attorney knows how to fight for settlements in workplace injury cases. The Husband and Wife Law Team at the Breyer Law Offices, P.C. knows how important it is for employees to work under safe and fair working conditions, and we take pride in helping Arizona businesses reach those goals. We gather facts in cases like this, including how the accident happened and whether it could have been avoided to fight for a fair settlement for the employee who was hurt. This man likely faces very high medical bills and a long hospital stay, as well as extensive recovery and rehabilitation costs. A fair settlement can help pay for these costs for now and the future. For worker's compensation and injury cases there are very strict deadlines, so it is important to consult a lawyer.