Demolition work is among the most hazardous construction industry operations. It involves additional risks because of unknown hazards, making it especially dangerous for workers. These risks make it crucial for employers, contractors, property owners, and other relevant parties to ensure that workers and other people are safe during demolitions. Otherwise, people can suffer life-changing injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a demolition accident in Florida, you need experienced and knowledgeable lawyers on your side. The Florida demolition accident attorneys at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa have been fighting for the rights of injured people for over 40 years, and we can do the same for you.
Why Florida Demolition Accidents Happen
According to OSHA, the most violated safety standards in demolition sites are related to the preparatory operations of the site. Before allowing workers to perform demolition operations, a licensed professional must conduct an engineering survey of the structure. The survey must assess the condition of the walls, floors, and framing and check whether an unplanned collapse is possible. All adjacent structures where workers might be exposed to hazards must also be thoroughly checked. Relevant parties must have proper evidence to prove that the survey has been completed. The employer shall have in writing evidence that such a survey has been performed. Failure to properly prep a demolition site can easily cause an accident. Demolition accidents can also occur due to the following:- Negligent Use of Explosives: When used incorrectly, explosives can injure or kill not only workers but bystanders, as well. Incorrect usage of explosives can include improper placement, premature detonation, or failure to ensure that the area is completely free of people before detonating the explosives.
- Falling Debris: Falling debris is among the most common causes of life-altering and deadly injuries in demolition sites, whether due to the building’s hazardous condition or the explosion.
- Defective Equipment or Improper Use of Equipment: Demolition equipment and machinery must be used correctly and safely to prevent accidents. Defective equipment also increases the risk of accidents and catastrophic injuries.
- Faulty Scaffold and Ladders: Workers typically use scaffolding and ladders during demolition work. When secured improperly, falls from scaffolding and ladders can lead to severe injuries, like traumatic brain injury, paralysis, multiple fractures, and internal organ damage, among many others.
- Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals: Different kinds of chemicals are normally used in demolition sites, and workers without proper protective gear might get exposed to them and develop injuries or illnesses.
How Our Florida Demolition Accident Attorneys Can Secure Compensation For You
Under Florida law, employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover workplace injuries. However, workers’ comp benefits may not fully compensate you for your damages. If your injuries resulted from the negligence of a third party, you can file a personal injury claim against them. Our Florida demolition accident attorneys will carefully investigate your case and get the evidence required to establish fault and liability for your injuries and other damages. They are prepared to aggressively negotiate with insurers or fight for you in court to ensure you get compensated fully for your demolition accident-related losses.Get In Touch With Our Florida Demolition Accident Attorneys Today
Getting hurt in a demolition accident can change your life in an instant, leaving you severely injured, emotionally scarred, and unable to earn a living. If you’ve sustained injuries in a demolition accident, the Florida demolition accident attorneys at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa have the resources and skills to secure the financial compensation you are owed. To set up your free case evaluation with our Florida demolition accident attorneys, please call our office at 561-478-2500 or send us a message online. People in malls, supermarkets, grocery stores, and other retail shops have a legal right to safety. Many people do not associate these places with serious injuries. Sometimes, however, a quick trip to the grocery could upend your life in a flash if you get hurt because of the negligent actions of the store employees, owners, or other parties. Unfortunately, most injured people usually downplay their injuries because they feel embarrassed or do not know that they are entitled to financial compensation for their injuries and related losses. But you should know that inadequate maintenance, improper cleanup, insufficient or negligent security, and other negligent acts can cause severe injuries, such as:- Broken bones
- Sprained muscles
- Dislocations
- Crushing injuries
- Cuts
- Bruises
- Spinal cord and back injuries
What You Should Know About Retail and Grocery Store Accidents
Slip and Falls
The most common types of accidents that happen in stores are slips and falls. Slips and falls usually occur due to spillage from spilled liquids, cleaning equipment, food items, and faulty freezers. Stores are legally required to clean up such hazards or set up clear signs warning customers of the hazards. Some stores install plastic or rubber mats to prevent slips and falls. On the other hand, when improperly installed, these mats can do more bad than good when their edges bunch or fold up. You may have a legal claim against a store if the management:- Failed to warn people about the hazard;
- Did not address the hazard after a reasonable time had passed; and
- Knew about the hazard and failed to address it.