Cleveland Scaffolding Accident Lawyer

Construction work is inherently dangerous, and scaffolding accidents are a common occurrence in this industry. If you have been injured in a scaffolding accident, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits.

Call Robin J. Peterson Company today at (216) 279-6888 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our scaffolding accident attorney in Cleveland.

Common Causes of Scaffolding Accidents

Some of the common causes of scaffolding accidents include:

• Improperly assembled scaffolding
• Defective equipment
• Inadequate training or supervision
• Falls from heights
• Objects falling from scaffolding

Common Injuries in a Scaffolding Accident

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Falls from scaffolding can result in broken arms, legs, ribs, and other bones. These injuries may demand extensive medical treatment, including surgery and physical therapy.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a serious concern in scaffolding accidents. Even with safety helmets, falling objects or falls from significant heights can cause concussions, skull fractures, and other brain injuries that might have long-term effects.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls and collapsing scaffolds can cause spinal cord injuries, resulting in partial or full paralysis. These life-altering injuries often require lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: The impact from a fall can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs, which might not be instantly noticeable but can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Sharp edges and falling tools can cause deep cuts and lacerations, leading to significant blood loss and the potential for infection.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, ligaments, and tendons are common in scaffolding accidents, often requiring lengthy recovery periods and physical therapy.

What to Do After a Scaffolding Accident

If you have been injured in a scaffolding accident, it is important to take the following steps:

1. Report the accident to your employer
2. Seek medical attention for your injuries
3. Consult with an experienced workers' compensation attorney

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Scaffolding Accident Claim?

Potential damages that could be recovered include the following:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and prospective medical costs is crucial. This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any other necessary medical treatments.
• Lost Wages: Injuries from scaffolding accidents can prevent victims from working, resulting in lost income. Claims can include compensation for both past lost wages and future lost earning capacity if the injuries affect the victim’s ability to work in the future.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional despair caused by the accident and subsequent injuries are significant. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to address the non-economic impact of the injuries on the victim’s life.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Many scaffolding accident victims require extensive rehabilitation services, which includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other specialized treatments. These costs can be recovered in a claim.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident leads to permanent disability or disfigurement, additional compensation could be warranted to address the long-term impact on the victim’s life and livelihood.
• Loss of Consortium: Spouses of scaffolding accident victims could be qualified to compensation for the loss of companionship and support resulting from their partner’s injuries.
• Property Damage: If personal property, like tools or equipment, was damaged in the accident, the cost of restoring or replacing these items can also be included in the claim.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the accident was caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be granted to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.