Federal Way Construction Accident Lawyer

Federal Way Construction Site Accident Lawyer — Representing Injured Workers and Their Families

For over 35 years, Lehmbecker Law has been a trusted advocate for injured workers in Federal Way, focusing on personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. 

We understand the toll that workplace accidents can take on employees and their families, which is why our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support to people injured in construction site accidents. With a robust knowledge of Washington construction law and federal safety regulations, we meticulously investigate each case, ensuring that all liable parties are held accountable and our clients receive the maximum compensation possible.

Understanding Construction Accidents in Federal Way, WA

Construction is one of the most hazardous industries to work in, with falls, struck-by accidents, electrocutions, and caught-in/between incidents (commonly known as the “Fatal Four”) being the leading causes of death on construction sites. These incidents account for a significant majority of construction worker fatalities annually.

In 2022 alone, there were 5,486 U.S. work-related fatalities across all industries, with the construction industry being responsible for a significant number of the most commonly violated OSHA standards. This data should only emphasize the critical need for stringent safety measures and effective legal representation to safeguard the rights and well-being of construction workers.

Common Types of Construction Accidents

Construction accidents can vary widely in type and cause, but certain kinds are more common, including:

• Falls: As the leading cause of injuries at construction sites, falls often occur due to the lack of proper fall protection, inadequate safety practices, or faulty equipment.
• Struck-by object incidents: This is when a worker is hit by an object, whether it’s a tool falling from above or a flying piece of debris from machinery.
• Electrocutions: Workers may suffer electrocutions when exposed to live wires, incomplete electrical systems, and power lines.
• Caught-in/between accidents: These accidents happen when a worker is caught in or compressed by equipment, structures, or materials.
• Trench collapses: When trenches or excavation sites collapse, they can bury or crush workers, often resulting in fatal injuries.
• Machinery accidents: Accidents involving machines like bulldozers and forklifts can happen due to mechanical failures, a lack of training, or the improper use of machinery.
• Exposure to hazardous materials: Construction workers can be exposed to various hazardous substances — including asbestos, lead, chemicals, and solvents — leading to acute and often chronic health issues.

Regardless of the cause of your injury, a reputable construction accident attorney from Lehmbecker Law is ready to fight for your rights.

Common Kinds of Construction Injuries

Some of the most common types of injuries sustained by construction workers include:

• Broken bones: Due to falls, being struck by heavy objects, or accidents involving machinery, workers often suffer fractures.
• Lacerations and cuts: Sharp tools, machinery, and exposed materials can cause serious cuts or lacerations, which could lead to infections if not properly treated.
• Head injuries: Helmets can only provide so much protection, and head injuries can cause concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: Falling or being struck by something can damage the spinal cord, leading to temporary or permanent paralysis, varying levels of mobility impairment, or other nerve-related issues.
• Loss of limbs or amputation: Extreme cases can result in the accidental amputation of limbs.
• Hearing loss: Prolonged exposure to loud noises without adequate ear protection can lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss.
• Respiratory issues: Inhaling dust, asbestos, silica, and other harmful substances can cause long-term respiratory problems, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cancer.
• Burns and scarring: Exposure to electrical wires, welding equipment, and chemicals can cause burns that could lead to significant scarring.
• Eye injuries: Workers can suffer from injuries caused by flying debris, chemicals, or intense light, potentially leading to temporary or permanent vision impairment.
• Heat stroke and sunburn: Working long hours in the sun without adequate hydration or protection can lead to heat stroke, which is a severe medical emergency, and sunburn, which can have long-term skin health consequences.

Your injuries may be severe, but you shouldn’t have to suffer alone. You can often pursue compensation to help you recover from your losses with the help of a personal injury lawyer.

Possible Compensation for Injured Federal Way Construction Workers

Injured construction workers in Federal Way may be entitled to several forms of compensation depending on the circumstances of their accident. Understanding these potential avenues for compensation is essential for ensuring that injured workers receive all the benefits they are entitled to. 

Here are some common types of compensation that may be available:

Workers’ Compensation

This is the primary source of compensation for most on-the-job injuries and is designed to cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. In Washington, workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning workers can receive workers’ compensation benefits regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

Personal Injury Claims

If a third party’s negligence contributed to the accident, the injured worker might be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against that party. This could be a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another party not covered under the workers’ compensation system. Compensation from personal injury claims can include damages for pain and suffering, medical bills, full lost wages, and future loss of earnings, which are not typically covered by workers’ compensation.

Product Liability Claims

If a defective product causes an injury, the worker may have a claim against the manufacturer or supplier. Compensation can include medical costs, lost wages, and other damages related to the injury.

Wrongful Death Claims

In the tragic event that a construction accident results in a fatality, the family of the deceased worker may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible parties. Compensation might include funeral and burial expenses, loss of future earnings, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.

Disability Benefits

If the injury leads to temporary or permanent disability, additional benefits may be available to compensate for the long-term impact on the worker’s ability to earn an income. This can include long-term or permanent disability benefits through workers’ compensation or private insurance policies.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the defendant’s behavior is particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages might be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Who May Be Liable for Construction Accidents?

In construction and workplace accidents, determining liability can be complex due to the number of parties involved and the varying levels of responsibility. 

Here are the primary parties who may be held liable for construction accidents:

• General Contractors (GC): GCs are responsible for ensuring a safe working environment and are required to adhere to safety regulations and provide proper training — if they fail in these duties, they can be held liable for any resulting accidents of their subcontractors.
• Subcontractors: If an accident occurs due to a subcontractor’s negligence, they can be held liable since they are not direct employees of the construction company.
• Property owners: The property owner may be liable if they fail to communicate any dangers of the site or do not make sure that safety measures are in place.
• Manufacturers of construction equipment: If an accident is caused by defective equipment, the manufacturer/supplier of those products can be held liable.
• Architects and engineers: If a design flaw causes an accident or if the construction does not align with the approved plans, the architects or engineers may be held liable.
• Construction managers: Construction managers are responsible for enforcing safety protocols and can be held liable if they fail to provide a safe job site.

Identifying all liable parties requires a detailed investigation into the accident, which your attorney can handle for you.

Why Choose Our Federal Way Construction Injury Attorney?

Choosing Lehmbecker Law for your personal injury claim or workers’ compensation claim provides several distinct advantages:

When you choose Lehmbecker Law, you’re choosing an attorney who puts your needs above all else in their pursuit of maximum compensation.