Construction Accidents: What to Know and When to Get Legal Help
Construction sites are dynamic environments that involve numerous hazards and risks. Despite strict safety regulations and precautions, accidents can still occur, leading to devastating consequences for workers and even bystanders. If you or someone you know has been involved in a construction accident, it’s crucial to understand your rights and know when to seek legal help.
In this article, the construction accident lawyers at Wham & Rogers explore the key aspects of construction accidents, the potential injuries involved, and when it’s beneficial to consult with a legal professional. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us at (832) 592-1108.
Common Construction Accidents and Injuries
Construction sites are replete with potential hazards, and accidents can occur in various forms. Some of the most common construction accidents include:
- Falls: Falls from heights, such as roofs or scaffolding, are a leading cause of construction site injuries. These accidents often result from inadequate safety measures, lack of fall protection, or defective equipment.
- Struck by Objects: Construction workers are at risk of being struck by heavy objects or machinery. Falling tools, building materials, or moving vehicles can cause severe injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or even fatalities.
- Electrocution: Construction sites have a high risk of electrical accidents. Faulty wiring, inadequate grounding, or contact with overhead power lines can lead to electric shocks, burns, and even death.
- Trench Collapses: Excavation work poses a significant danger, with the potential for trenches to collapse. Workers caught in a trench collapse can suffer from crush injuries, asphyxiation, or suffocation.
- Machinery Accidents: The use of heavy machinery and equipment on construction sites increases the risk of accidents. Malfunctioning machinery, improper operation, or lack of proper training can result in severe injuries, including amputations, crush injuries, or limb fractures.
- Chemical Exposure: Construction sites often involve the use of hazardous substances. Accidental exposure to toxic chemicals can lead to respiratory problems, burns, or long-term health issues.
Construction sites have some inherent risks to those working onsite, as well as those who may be nearby. It is important that construction site owners and operators properly train workers and ensure that construction sites are as safe as possible.
What are the Common Causes of Construction Accidents?
Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, and accidents can occur due to a variety of factors. Some common causes of construction accidents include:
- Electrocution: Construction sites involve the use of electricity, and those nearby may face the risk of electric shocks or electrocution. Contact with live wires, faulty wiring, improper grounding, or inadequate electrical safety measures can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Trench Collapses: Excavation work poses a significant risk, particularly in trenches and excavations. A trench collapse can lead to workers being buried under soil or construction materials, causing injuries or death. Failure to provide proper shoring or protective systems, inadequate training, or unstable soil conditions contribute to these accidents.
- Machinery Accidents: Construction sites utilize heavy machinery and equipment, which can cause accidents if not used properly or if there are mechanical failures. Malfunctioning equipment, lack of safety guards, improper training, or inadequate maintenance can result in workers being caught
- Chemical Exposure: Construction workers may be exposed to hazardous substances such as asbestos, lead, solvents, or toxic gases. Failure to provide proper personal protective equipment, inadequate ventilation, or improper handling of chemicals can lead to respiratory problems, burns, or long-term health issues.
- Structural Collapses: Structural collapses, such as building or scaffold failures, pose significant dangers to construction workers. Poorly constructed or maintained structures, lack of structural integrity, or failure to follow engineering specifications contribute to these accidents.
- Fires and Explosions: Construction sites involve the use of flammable materials, welding, or cutting equipment, which can lead to fires and explosions. Improper storage of flammable substances, failure to follow safety protocols, or lack of fire prevention measures can result in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Inadequate Training and Supervision: Insufficient training and lack of supervision contribute to many construction accidents. Workers need proper training on equipment operation, safety procedures, and hazard recognition to mitigate risks effectively. Inadequate supervision may lead to unsafe work practices or shortcuts that can result in accidents.
This list is not exhaustive. There are many potential causes for construction site accidents and injuries. The list above is, however, the most common causes that are frequently reported in accident reports and lawsuits.
Understanding Your Rights
If you’ve been involved in a construction accident, it’s crucial to understand your rights and legal options. In most cases, injured workers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation provides medical coverage, wage replacement, and disability benefits for work-related injuries or illnesses, regardless of fault.
However, there are instances where workers’ compensation may not fully cover the damages suffered or when a third party is responsible for the accident. For example, if a defective product caused the injury, the manufacturer or distributor could be held liable. Additionally, if a subcontractor or another non-employer party’s negligence contributed to the accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.
When to Seek Legal Help
While workers’ compensation is designed to provide timely benefits, navigating the legal aspects can be complex. Additionally, if you don’t qualify for workers’ compensation, you could be left feeling overwhelmed with your medical expenses or lost wages. In such cases, it can be helpful to seek the guidance of a construction accident lawyer.
Here are a few indicators that it’s time to seek legal assistance:
- Severe Injuries: If your injuries are severe, causing long-term disabilities, permanent disfigurement, or impacting your ability to work and earn a living, consulting with a personal injury attorney is advisable. They can help assess the true value of your claim, including future medical costs and loss of earning capacity.
- Third-Party Liability: If a third party, such as a contractor, subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner, contributed to your accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. An experienced attorney can investigate the circumstances, identify liable parties, and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Compliance Issues: Construction sites are subject to numerous safety regulations and standards. If the accident occurred due to a violation of safety regulations or inadequate safety measures, consulting an attorney with expertise in construction accidents is essential. They can help determine if negligence or non-compliance played a role in the accident and hold the responsible parties accountable.
- Complex Legal Procedures: Dealing with legal procedures, paperwork, and insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you are recovering from injuries. An experienced attorney can handle all the legal aspects of your case, including gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court if necessary. This allows you to focus on your recovery while ensuring your rights are protected.
It is important to note that each case is unique, and the circumstances surrounding construction accidents can vary. Consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in construction accidents will provide you with personalized advice based on the specifics of your situation. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
Get a Free Construction Accident Consultation
If you have been injured in a construction accident, contact Wham & Rogers for a free consultation. Our lawyers have an abundance of experience helping injury victims pursue compensation. Our Board Certified personal injury lawyer has the knowledge and resources you need to obtain maximum compensation.
Get started by calling us at (832) 592-1108, or by completing our online form.
On February 18, 2026, an accident involving a motorcycle and two other vehicles occurred on Aldine Westfield Road near Wood River Drive, Fox26 Houston reports. An off-duty officer was operating the motorcycle and was found unresponsive at the scene. Despite the efforts of EMS and firefighters, they were unable to save the deputy. The investigation into the crash is being handled by the Precinct 4 accident investigation team, and all lanes on Aldine Westfield Road were shut down due to the incident. The driver of the vehicle stayed on the scene and was not impaired at the time of the accident. It is not yet clear if the crash was related to the arrest of a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputy at the scene, who was charged with DWI.
February 12th, 2026, Houston: An 18-wheeler rollover on Southwest Freeway near Chimney Rock Road blocked multiple outbound lanes, leading to major delays for commuters, KHOU reports. The truck rolled onto its passenger side, crushing a pickup truck and dragging it approximately 100 yards. Fortunately, the pickup truck’s driver escaped unscathed, and there were no reported injuries. Fire officials also noted that the semi-truck did not lose its load during the incident. If you have been injured in a serious truck or 18-wheeler accident in Texas, please call Wham & Rogers for a free consultation at 832-592-1108 .
On February 5, 2026, a dramatic rescue unfolded on Highway 290 near Mason Road in Cypress, Texas, when a woman found herself trapped in her vehicle after a major two-vehicle crash. The crash caused significant delays, with two westbound main lanes on Highway 290 remaining closed. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported that when emergency services arrived at the scene, they discovered the woman wedged underneath a truck . This type of accident is called a Side Underride Crash , and car manufacturers face pressure to install additional safeguards. Thanks to the efforts of first responders, the woman was safely removed from her vehicle and taken to the hospital for further care. If you have been injured in a serious car accident in Houston, please call Wham & Rogers for a free consultation at 832-592-1108.
A new video released after a fatal crash in the Texas Panhandle shows a truck on US 87 crashing into four young women from the Houston area. The women had to reduce their speed due to a flat tire, and had turned the hazard lights on. Despite their precautions, an 18-wheeler transporting produce for the San Antonio-based grocery chain H-E-B collided with the Nissan Altima, tragically killing the driver and three passengers. Long hours, insufficient training and lax monitoring make commercial vehicle and big rig accidents all too common on Texas roadways.
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. None of the information on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.
On February 18, 2026, an accident involving a motorcycle and two other vehicles occurred on Aldine Westfield Road near Wood River Drive, Fox26 Houston reports. An off-duty officer was operating the motorcycle and was found unresponsive at the scene. Despite the efforts of EMS and firefighters, they were unable to save the deputy. The investigation into the crash is being handled by the Precinct 4 accident investigation team, and all lanes on Aldine Westfield Road were shut down due to the incident. The driver of the vehicle stayed on the scene and was not impaired at the time of the accident. It is not yet clear if the crash was related to the arrest of a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputy at the scene, who was charged with DWI.
February 12th, 2026, Houston: An 18-wheeler rollover on Southwest Freeway near Chimney Rock Road blocked multiple outbound lanes, leading to major delays for commuters, KHOU reports. The truck rolled onto its passenger side, crushing a pickup truck and dragging it approximately 100 yards. Fortunately, the pickup truck’s driver escaped unscathed, and there were no reported injuries. Fire officials also noted that the semi-truck did not lose its load during the incident. If you have been injured in a serious truck or 18-wheeler accident in Texas, please call Wham & Rogers for a free consultation at 832-592-1108 .
On February 5, 2026, a dramatic rescue unfolded on Highway 290 near Mason Road in Cypress, Texas, when a woman found herself trapped in her vehicle after a major two-vehicle crash. The crash caused significant delays, with two westbound main lanes on Highway 290 remaining closed. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported that when emergency services arrived at the scene, they discovered the woman wedged underneath a truck . This type of accident is called a Side Underride Crash , and car manufacturers face pressure to install additional safeguards. Thanks to the efforts of first responders, the woman was safely removed from her vehicle and taken to the hospital for further care. If you have been injured in a serious car accident in Houston, please call Wham & Rogers for a free consultation at 832-592-1108.
A new video released after a fatal crash in the Texas Panhandle shows a truck on US 87 crashing into four young women from the Houston area. The women had to reduce their speed due to a flat tire, and had turned the hazard lights on. Despite their precautions, an 18-wheeler transporting produce for the San Antonio-based grocery chain H-E-B collided with the Nissan Altima, tragically killing the driver and three passengers. Long hours, insufficient training and lax monitoring make commercial vehicle and big rig accidents all too common on Texas roadways.
On the afternoon of June 28th, a truck driver allegedly fell asleep while driving an 18-wheeler on I-20 east of Dallas , causing him to crash into four cars and three 18-wheelers. This accident resulted in five deaths and an unknown number of injuries. This crash caused I-20 to be closed for several hours on Saturday while the victims were treated and the vehicles were removed from the scene. The driver was arrested the next day after admitting to falling asleep while driving, and is facing five counts of manslaughter along with a count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. 18-wheeler accidents have become a near daily occurrence, putting many drivers at risk. It is important to obtain counsel immediately if you have been in a collision with an 18-wheeler to ensure evidence is preserved and the accident is investigated thoroughly. If you have been injured in a serious 18-wheeler or commercial vehicle accident in Texas, call Wham & Rogers at 832-592-1108 for a free consultation.
We often receive phone calls from people whose attorney won't return their calls, won't help them find medical care, or won't give them any advice about property damage. When I ask who this lawyer is, they usually don't know. Invariably, I find out that they hired the lawyer through a service that contacted them. A shocking number of these solicitation companies are breaking the law. They are committing the crime of barratry . Attorneys who hire companies to illegally solicit business for them are focused on quick, easy settlements. They’ve already taken an illegal shortcut to get your business. They want to settle your case with the least amount of effort. They do not want to spend time answering your questions and helping you with anything that won’t make them a quick buck. I’ve learned of situations where lawyers hired through solicitation companies settled cases without their client’s consent — and even situations where the client’s settlement check bounced. If you hire a lawyer who contacts calls you personally or through a service, you may be hiring a lawyer who is breaking the law. This is not who you want representing you. If you did hire a lawyer through one of these services, you may be the victim of barratry and there are lawyers who will pursue these claims for you. ( Our firm does not handle barratry claims ) When you need a personal injury attorney, do your research. Check the reviews for the firm. Call to talk with the lawyers. If you can’t get a lawyer on the phone to talk with you, that is a sign you may need to look elsewhere. Our client reviews will attest that we provide personal, caring service to our clients. If you want attorneys who will treat you like family, call Wham & Rogers.
Austin, Texas - Texas is already one of the most dangerous states for fatal 18-wheeler crashes, and major disruptions from trucking collisions are a near-daily occurrence. This morning, an 18-wheeler and six other vehicles collided near the Austin-area suburb of Georgetown . The severity of any injuries sustained in the commercial vehicle wreck has not yet been reported, but the crash and recovery efforts have led to the complete closure of southbound lanes on Highway I-35. The Texas Department of Transportation warns that traffic will be disrupted for hours. Just last month, commuters on I-35 suffered a major, multiple-fatality accident when a driver for an Amazon delivery contractor crashed his 18-wheeler into 17 other vehicles . Investigations continue into the cause of the crash. Despite the frequency and severity of 18-wheeler and commercial vehicle crashes in Texas, the State Legislature is considering new laws that would protect trucking companies from liability in these wrecks . When combined with other new legislation capping damages that result from these serious 18-wheeler accidents, Texans would be left even more vulnerable. If you have been injured in a serious truck or 18-wheeler accident in Texas, please call Wham & Rogers for a free consultation at 832-592-1108 .
Texas has led the nation in large truck crashes since 2017. Despite this, the Texas Legislature is considering bills that would sacrifice Texans' safety for commercial trucking and insurance company profits
A proposed Senate bill, pushed by insurance company lobbyists, would severely limit damages for victims involved in crashes with 18-wheelers, further tipping the scales in favor of insurance companies at the expense of Texans’ rights.
Five people were killed and eleven injured in a major, multi-vehicle collision on the evening of March 13th in Austin, Texas. According to NBC affiliate KXAN , one individual has been charged: "Police sources confirmed with KXAN the person arrested was the driver of a semi-truck hauling for Amazon. The driver involved in this incident is not an Amazon employee. … The owner of ZBN Transport LLC said Friday afternoon there’s been no contact with its semi-truck driver." (KXAN) According to Austin police, the alleged driver has been charged with multiple counts of intoxication manslaughter. Amazon, like many other large corporations, has chosen to expand its operations via an array of third-party contractors rather than relying solely upon employees. This provides the company with greater flexibility on pay and benefits, and may also seem like attractive way to reduce liability for accidents like the above. However, many large corporations have discovered that merely declaring a worker to be an “independent contractor” does not necessarily make it so. In one notable example, a court of appeals in Oregon ruled that Domino’s Pizza, Inc. was directly responsible for an accident caused by one of their franchisee’s delivery drivers, and could not disclaim liability . A decade later, the Supreme Court of Ireland found the same. Amazon has also faced legal scrutiny over its "Delivery Service Partner" program in the state of Georgia: "Jurors Thursday handed down a $16.2 million verdict at trial against Amazon Logistics and a service partner. ... Notably, jurors also concluded that Amazon exercised sufficient control over defendant Fly Fella Logistics to render the delivery giant liable ." (Courtroom View Network) To be considered truly “independent”, a contractor should exercise significant control over his own schedule, and be able to make decisions over how and when to provide services. When a company policy guarantees a specific delivery timeframe, or denies digital app or marketplace access to a contractor based on number of jobs taken per week, they may risk having the supposedly “independent” contractor being considered an employee. If you have been seriously injured by a commercial driver, or a contractor for a major corporation, the Texas 18-wheeler accident experts at Wham & Rogers, PLLC can help. Speak to an attorney today by calling (832) 592-1108 or leaving us a message on our contact page.
