Ernst Law Group is committed to raising awareness about these risks and helping workers and their families seek justice when tragedy strikes. By identifying the most common causes of fatal accidents on construction sites, we can work together to create safer work environments and prevent future losses.
Keep reading for more from our San Luis Obispo construction accident attorneys, then call (805) 541-0300 to schedule a free consultation.
Falls: The leading cause of fatal construction accidents
When examining what type of accident kills most construction workers, falls stand out as the most common and deadly hazard on construction sites.
Quick facts
| Construction workers make up nearly 49% of all fatal occupational slips, trips, and falls across all industries. |
| Since 2013, construction workers have experienced around 300 fatal and 20,000 nonfatal fall-related injuries annually. |
| Roofing contractors, residential building construction, and commercial/institutional building construction had the highest number of fatalities in 2022. |
| Lack of planning was strongly associated with reduced use of fall protection, with 71% lower usage among workers whose employers did not engage in planning. |
| Approximately 70% of all fatal falls in construction occurred among workers employed by companies with fewer than 10 employees. |
Common scenarios leading to fatal falls
- Scaffolding collapses – Scaffolding is commonly used in construction to provide workers access to high areas. If scaffolding is improperly erected, maintained, or used, it can collapse, leading to fatal falls.
- Roof falls – Working on roofs presents significant risks, particularly if proper fall protection measures are not in place. Slippery surfaces, loose materials, and lack of guardrails can contribute to fatal accidents.
- Ladder accidents – Ladders are a standard tool on construction sites, but improper use, unstable placement, or defective ladders can lead to deadly falls.
- Falls from openings and holes – Construction sites often have floor openings, unguarded edges, and holes that workers can fall through if they are not adequately marked or protected.
Preventing fatal falls
Construction companies must implement strict safety protocols to reduce the risk of falls and ensure that workers are adequately trained and equipped. Key prevention measures include:
- Fall protection systems – Installing guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems to protect workers from falling from heights.
- Proper scaffolding use – Ensuring that scaffolding is erected and maintained according to OSHA standards and that workers are trained in safe scaffolding practices.
- Ladder safety – Providing training on proper ladder use, including selecting the right ladder for the job and ensuring it is placed on a stable surface.
- Site safety inspections – Regularly inspect the construction site for hazards such as unguarded openings and ensure they are properly marked and secured.
The “fatal four” in construction accidents
While falls are the leading cause of fatalities, it’s important to consider the other three types of accidents that contribute significantly to construction worker deaths. Together, these four types of accidents are known as the “Fatal Four” and account for nearly 60% of all construction fatalities:
- Struck-by accidents – These occur when workers are hit by objects, equipment, or vehicles. This can include being struck by falling tools, building materials, or construction vehicles.
- Electrocutions – Electrocutions happen when workers come into contact with live electrical wires, power lines, or improperly grounded equipment.
- Caught-in/between accidents – These accidents occur when workers are caught in or compressed by equipment or objects or are caught in collapsing structures such as trenches.
Falls to a lower level accounted for over half (53.5%) of Fatal Four injuries from 2011-2021.
Legal rights and pursuing compensation
When a construction worker is killed in an accident, their family may be entitled to compensation through various legal avenues. This can include workers’ compensation benefits and potential wrongful death claims if negligence is involved.
Workers’ compensation benefits
In California, workers’ compensation provides death benefits to the surviving dependents of a worker who is killed on the job. These benefits can cover:
- Funeral and burial expenses – A portion of the costs associated with the worker’s funeral and burial.
- Death benefits – Financial support for the worker’s dependents, including spouses, children, or other family members who relied on the deceased for financial support.
Wrongful death claims
If the death resulted from negligence by a third party (such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner), the family may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of claim can seek compensation for:
- Loss of financial support – The income and benefits the deceased would have provided their family.
- Loss of companionship – Compensation for the emotional impact of losing a loved one.
- Pain and suffering – Damages for the emotional distress experienced by the family.
Did you lose a loved one in a construction accident? We can help.
At Ernst Law Group, we understand the devastating impact that construction site fatalities have on families. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you navigate the complex legal process, whether seeking workers’ compensation benefits or pursuing a wrongful death claim.
Contact Ernst Law Group at (805) 541-0300 for a free consultation. We are here to provide the legal support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
