No fee until we win
Free consultations
(855) 946-3678
Menu

Reading Construction Accident Attorney

Construction sites in Reading, Pennsylvania, are inherently risky environments, with heavy machinery, elevated work areas, and dangerous tools creating potential hazards. Employers, contractors, and developers have a legal duty to ensure that every worker is adequately trained and that safety measures are strictly followed to prevent accidents.

Unfortunately, when negligence occurs, construction workers may suffer severe injuries or even fatalities.

You could be entitled to financial compensation if you or a loved one has been hurt on a construction site. An experienced Reading construction accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help hold the responsible parties accountable.

Construction workers in Reading may be employed by the city or work for companies like Dolan Construction Inc., Paulino Construction, Uhrig Construction Inc., or other major firms. Regardless of the employer, workers deserve a safe job site.

Construction accidents can result from various unsafe conditions, including falling objects, scaffolding collapses, electrical hazards, or machinery malfunctions. Injuries can vary from broken bones and burns to traumatic brain injuries and permanent disabilities.

When these accidents are caused by someone else’s negligence, such as improper equipment maintenance or failure to follow safety protocols, victims can pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Don’t let a construction site injury burden you financially and emotionally. With the proper legal representation, you can protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. An experienced construction accident attorney in Reading, Pennsylvania, is your advocate in navigating the complexities of personal injury claims and fighting for your recovery.

How Often Do Construction Accidents Occur in Reading, Pennsylvania?

Construction sites are among the most hazardous workplaces in Pennsylvania, with accidents happening far too frequently. While not all construction-related injuries result in fatalities, the data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights the significant risks faced by workers in this industry.

Statewide Construction Accident Statistics

In 2022, Pennsylvania recorded 183 fatal work injuries, a rise from 162 in the previous year. Of these, 28 fatalities occurred in the private construction sector, with 21 of those deaths involving specialty trade contractors. Construction and extraction workers represented the second-highest occupational group for fatal injuries statewide, highlighting the dangers associated with this type of work.

Many construction accidents in Pennsylvania stem from falls, slips, and trips, which accounted for 24 fatalities in 2022. Contact with objects or equipment and exposure to harmful substances were also significant contributors to worker deaths. While the total number of construction-related fatalities slightly declined from 2021, the risks remain alarmingly high, particularly in cities like Reading, where construction activity is robust.

Non-Fatal Construction Accidents

Fatal injuries only tell part of the story. Non-fatal construction accidents are even more common, often resulting in serious injuries such as fractures, burns, or head trauma. Roadway work zones are particularly hazardous, exposing workers to risks from passing vehicles, heavy equipment, and uneven surfaces. These zones require strict adherence to safety protocols, but negligence often leads to preventable accidents.

The Impact on Reading’s Workforce

Local firms like Ciatto Construction Company or D&B Construction Group often employ construction workers in Reading, Pennsylvania. With high-risk projects underway, these workers face daily challenges to stay safe. Whether used on city infrastructure or private projects, their safety must remain a priority.

Understanding how often and why construction accidents occur is crucial for preventing future injuries. Employers, contractors, and workers all play a role in creating safer job sites.

For immediate legal assistance from an experienced Reading construction accident lawyer, contact our law firm today. We offer free case evaluations and are never too busy to speak with you.

What Types of Accidents Commonly Occur on Construction Sites?

Construction sites are dynamic environments with hazards that put workers at constant risk of injury. While OSHA highlights four primary dangers—falls, struck-by accidents, electrocution, and caught-in/between incidents—workers frequently face additional types of accidents. These hazards stem from equipment misuse, poor training, and unpredictable site conditions.

Falls, Slips, and Trips

Falls remain the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry, including falls from ladders, scaffolding, and roofs. Slips and trips, often caused by spills, uneven surfaces, or obstructed pathways, can lead to traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and spinal injuries. Environmental factors like rain, snow, and ice on job sites exacerbate these risks.

Falling Objects

Being struck by falling tools, materials, or debris is another common hazard. Workers without proper head protection or those working below active construction zones face the most significant risk. These accidents can cause concussions, skull fractures, and even fatalities.

Electrocution

Exposed wiring, faulty equipment, and inadequate grounding make electrocution a persistent threat. Workers operating near power lines or using malfunctioning tools may suffer burns, nerve damage, or cardiac arrest.

Caught-In/Between Accidents

These incidents occur when workers are trapped between equipment, walls, or collapsing structures. Trench collapses, machinery rollovers and unsafe equipment handling often lead to life-threatening injuries.

Machinery Accidents

Heavy machinery, such as forklifts, cranes, and bulldozers, is essential for construction work but can pose significant risks. Equipment malfunctions or operator errors often result in crushing injuries, amputations, or fatalities.

Explosions and Fires

Using flammable materials and hazardous chemicals on job sites increases the likelihood of fires or explosions. Workers near improperly stored materials or defective gas lines may sustain burns or inhalation injuries.

Roadway Work Zone Accidents

Construction workers in roadway zones are particularly vulnerable to accidents involving passing vehicles, heavy equipment, or poorly marked work areas. These incidents can cause serious injuries and are often preventable with proper traffic control measures.

Overexertion and Heat Stress

Long hours of physically demanding labor can lead to overexertion injuries, such as muscle strains or heart-related conditions. Workers are also at risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke in hot weather, especially if hydration and breaks are inadequate.

Construction workers in Reading, Pennsylvania, face these hazards daily, often while working. Employers must prioritize safety to minimize these risks and protect their workforce.

To learn more about the causes of construction accidents in Pennsylvania, contact our experienced Reading construction accident attorneys. We offer free consultations and can help you understand your rights after an accident or injury.

Workers’ Rights and OSHA Standards in Reading, Pennsylvania

Workers on construction sites in Reading, Pennsylvania, are entitled to safe and healthy working conditions. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) establishes vital protections to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities. Both workers and employers have clear rights and responsibilities under these laws.

Workers’ Rights Under the OSH Act

The OSH Act empowers workers to advocate for safer workplaces. Employees have the right to:

  • File confidential complaints with OSHA for workplace inspections.
  • Access training and information about workplace hazards in a language they understand.
  • Review workplace injury and illness records.
  • Obtain copies of workplace medical records and safety test results.
  • Participate in OSHA inspections and speak privately with inspectors.
  • Report unsafe conditions or retaliation without fear of reprisal.

Workers who believe their rights have been violated or have suffered retaliation for reporting hazards can file a whistleblower complaint with OSHA. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry provides additional resources, including steps for filing workers’ compensation claims in Pennsylvania.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers must provide workplaces free from recognized hazards. This includes:

  • Identifying and eliminating risks through engineering controls or safer work practices.
  • Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary.
  • Offering training on safety protocols in a language workers can understand.
  • Reporting workplace fatalities within 8 hours and hospitalizations or severe injuries within 24 hours.
  • Displaying OSHA notices and posting citations where visible.

Employers in Reading must also adhere to Pennsylvania-specific regulations, which complement federal OSHA standards. Companies failing to meet these obligations can face significant penalties and liability.

How OSHA Helps Workers in Reading

OSHA plays a crucial role in ensuring workers go home safely every day. By enforcing standards, conducting inspections, and offering educational resources, OSHA reduces construction workers’ risks. Workers can contact OSHA or the Pennsylvania State Plan for assistance with safety concerns.

For more information on construction site workers’ rights, reach out to a skilled Reading personal injury lawyer at our firm today.

Who Are Some of The Parties That Could Be Held Responsible for an Accident on a Construction Site?

Construction site accidents often involve multiple parties, each with specific responsibilities for ensuring safety. Identifying these parties is crucial for determining liability and securing compensation for injuries.

Property Owners

Under premises liability laws, property owners must ensure their premises are reasonably safe for workers and visitors. They may be liable if hazardous conditions—such as icy surfaces, inadequate lighting, or poorly maintained structures—are not addressed.

When owners actively manage or supervise the construction site, they sometimes assume a duty to provide a safe environment. They can be accountable for injuries resulting from their negligence.

Construction Companies and Contractors

Construction companies and contractors are responsible for maintaining safety on the worksite, which includes providing proper safety gear, training, tools, and equipment. General contractors often oversee multiple subcontractors, making them potentially liable for site-wide safety lapses.

Common claims against contractors include failing to inspect worksites, train workers, enforce safety policies, or conduct risk assessments.

Engineers and Architects

Engineers and architects play a critical role in designing safe structures. If their plans or oversight create hazardous conditions, such as structural defects or unsafe designs, they could be held liable for injuries that occur as a result.

Equipment Manufacturers

Defective products such as tools and machinery can lead to severe accidents on construction sites. When injuries result from malfunctioning equipment, the manufacturer or distributor may be liable under product liability laws. This includes defects in design and manufacturing or insufficient safety warnings for the equipment.

Third-Party Maintenance Companies

If a third-party company is responsible for maintaining equipment or facilities and fails to do so adequately, they may share liability for any accidents caused by their negligence.

In Pennsylvania, workers injured on construction sites can often seek compensation beyond workers’ compensation claims by holding these parties accountable through third-party lawsuits. A prompt investigation is essential to uncover all liable entities.

To learn more, schedule a free consultation with our experienced Reading construction accident lawyers.

What Type of Damages Can I Recover in My Reading Construction Accident Claim?

When injured in a construction accident in Pennsylvania, you may be entitled to several types of damages. These fall into two primary categories: compensatory damages and punitive damages.

Compensatory Damages

The purpose of compensatory damages is to restore you financially, physically, and emotionally to your state before the accident. These damages are divided into economic and non-economic losses.

Economic Damages

These damages cover financial losses that can be calculated precisely, such as:

  • Medical Expenses: Includes costs for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing treatment.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to missed work and future earning potential if the injury affects your ability to work.
  • Property Damage: Covers repairs or replacements for personal items damaged during the accident, such as tools or safety equipment.
  • Other Out-of-Pocket Costs: Includes transportation to medical appointments or hiring help for tasks you can no longer perform.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages address intangible losses, such as:

  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  • Emotional Distress: Covers anxiety, depression, or trauma stemming from the injury.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for diminished ability to engage in hobbies or activities.
  • Loss of Consortium: Awarded to spouses for losing companionship and support.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are not awarded in every case. These damages are intended to punish egregiously reckless or malicious behavior and deter similar misconduct in the future. Examples include:

  • Gross Negligence: Ignoring known hazards or safety regulations.
  • Reckless Disregard: Failing to provide essential safety equipment or knowingly using defective materials.

To ensure you recover all damages you’re entitled to, consult an experienced attorney. They can help you pursue compensatory damages and determine if punitive damages apply to your case.

Reading, Pennsylvania

Reading, Pennsylvania, is experiencing significant growth and development, driven by numerous construction projects to revitalize the city and meet its evolving needs. From residential developments to public infrastructure enhancements, the town is undergoing transformative changes that promise to modernize and enrich the community.

However, this surge in construction activity also increases the risk of accidents, particularly in busy roadway work zones, where workers and drivers face heightened dangers.

Key Construction Projects in Reading

Recent projects in Reading underscore the city’s dedication to community development and modernization:

  • 825 E. Wyomissing Blvd (Reading Truck Group): This project involves the subdivision and annexation of a parcel to expand the Reading Truck Body facility, supporting local manufacturing growth.
  • 1201 N. 9th Street (Marion Street Fire Station): A new fire station has been approved to improve emergency response times and enhance public safety services for the community.
  • 208 Chestnut Street (Remcon Plastics): A storage building expansion was greenlit, catering to the city’s growing industrial and logistics sectors.
  • 575 Saint Bernardine Street (The Nature Place Phase 2): This expansion of the nature center aims to bolster environmental education and encourage community engagement through interactive programs.
  • 459 Miltimore Street (Buttonwood Gateway): A residential development featuring 11 new units is in progress, addressing the city’s increasing demand for quality housing.

These projects reflect Reading’s ongoing commitment to improving residential, commercial, and public spaces while fostering economic growth. Each development contributes to modernizing the city, enhancing its infrastructure, and addressing the needs of its growing population.

However, as construction transforms the city, it is essential to prioritize safety and minimize the risks associated with such activities, particularly for construction workers and roadway users.

As Reading expands, contractors, workers, and drivers must implement stringent safety measures to prevent construction-related accidents and protect the workforce.

Skilled Construction Site Injury Law Firm in Reading, Pennsylvania

Construction accidents can leave workers and their families grappling with devastating physical, emotional, and financial challenges. At Wilk Law Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, we understand the complexities of Pennsylvania construction accident claims. We are dedicated to securing the maximum compensation and justice you deserve, ensuring your recovery and peace of mind remain our top priorities.

Led by experienced attorney Tyler Wilk, our firm is committed to holding negligent parties accountable, protecting your interests, and fighting for your rights every step of the way. We believe in personalized legal representation, offering compassionate support while aggressively pursuing the outcomes you need to move forward.

Whether you’re pursuing workers’ compensation, a third-party claim, or both, our dedicated Reading construction accident attorneys will work tirelessly to build a strong and compelling case on your behalf. With a thorough understanding of construction accident victims’ challenges, we strive to achieve justice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Don’t face the aftermath of an accident or injury alone. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward confidently reclaiming your future.

Locations near Reading, Pennsylvania, which our legal team serves include West Chester, Pottstown, Phoenixville, Philadelphia, Exton, Berwyn, Kennett Square, Coatesville, Valley Forge, Downingtown, Devon, Frazer, and more.