40-foot fall causes workplace injuries to construction worker

Last week multiple rescue units and firefighters responded to a construction site involving the expansion of a YMCA facility in Wichita Falls, Texas – www.texomashomepage.com/news/local-news/worker-falls-at-ymca-construction-site/. An emergency call went out after a 40-foot fall that caused serious workplace injuries. A fall from such a height is sure to cause severe or even fatal injuries. Reportedly, the construction worker was on a scissor lift that tipped over for reasons yet to be determined. Although investigators are working to determine the cause of the accident, it might take months to gather and process all of the information. In the meantime, the victim will have to deal with mounting medical bills, lost income and possible long-term disability. Workers’ compensation insurance coverage is optional in Texas, and the injured worker will likely have questions about financial relief. Although employers are expected to prioritize employee safety, this is often not the case. In this case, for example, the worker’s 40-foot fall could have been arrested had he been provided with a properly working fall harness, or the scissor lift would not have tipped if it was on a firm base and properly anchored. The report fails to mention the presence of such protections. Even if the employer carries workers’ compensation, there might be grounds for a third party civil lawsuit. An injured worker in Texas can consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to learn about available legal options. If workplace injuries involved gross negligence by an employer or reckless circumstances, the lawyer can assess the viability of pursuing a claim through the state’s civil justice system. The same applies when a third party’s negligence caused the incident that led to the worker’s injuries. If you or a loved one find yourself in a situation where you are injured on the job and have questions regarding the compensation you are entitled to, please don’t hesitate to contact us