Construction work is one of the most hazardous jobs in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Every year, numerous workers suffer serious injuries due to unsafe conditions, equipment failure, or negligence on construction sites throughout towns like Freehold, Long Branch, and Middletown.
While Workers’ Compensation benefits provide critical support for injured employees, they do not always cover all the damages or hold third parties accountable. In some cases, injured workers may be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit in addition to or instead of a Workers’ Compensation claim.
If you or a loved one has been hurt on a construction site in Monmouth County, it’s important to understand the common causes of these accidents and how an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Construction Site Injuries in Monmouth County
Falls from Heights
Falls remain the leading cause of construction site injuries and fatalities in New Jersey. Whether it’s from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or unfinished structures, workers who are not properly secured with safety harnesses or guardrails are at high risk. Falls can lead to broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or even death.
Struck-By Accidents
Construction sites are busy places with heavy machinery, trucks, and tools operating constantly. Workers may be struck by moving vehicles, falling tools or debris, or equipment malfunctioning. These accidents can cause severe blunt force trauma, fractures, or internal injuries.
Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents
Workers can become trapped or crushed by collapsing trenches, walls, or machinery. Being pinned between heavy objects or caught in equipment often results in catastrophic injuries such as crush syndrome, amputations, or fatal trauma.
Electrocution
Working near live electrical wires, improperly grounded equipment, or damaged power lines puts construction workers at risk of electrocution. This can cause severe burns, nerve damage, cardiac arrest, or death.
Unsafe Working Conditions and Employer Negligence
Employers are legally required to follow strict safety regulations set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). Failure to provide adequate protective equipment, proper training, or a safe work environment can lead to preventable injuries. When employers knowingly ignore these safety rules and expose workers to danger, injured workers may have the right to pursue additional legal claims beyond Workers’ Compensation.
Defective Equipment and Product Liability
Sometimes accidents happen due to defective tools, machinery, or safety equipment that malfunctions. Injured workers may be able to hold manufacturers or distributors liable through product liability lawsuits if faulty equipment caused their injuries.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Claims on Construction Sites
Injured construction workers in Monmouth County typically file a Workers’ Compensation claim to cover medical bills, lost wages, and disability benefits. Workers’ Compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you don’t have to prove negligence to receive benefits. However, Workers’ Compensation benefits often do not fully compensate for pain and suffering, long-term disability, or other damages.
In certain situations, you may also have a personal injury claim against a third party, such as:
- A subcontractor or general contractor is responsible for unsafe conditions.
- The manufacturer of defective tools or machinery.
- A property owner who failed to maintain a safe site.
Personal injury lawsuits require proving negligence or fault, but can provide compensation for broader damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
Contact the Monmouth County Personal Injury Lawyers at Lombardi & Lombardi, P.A.
If you have been injured on a construction site, the Monmouth County personal injury lawyers at Lombardi & Lombardi, P.A. are ready to help. We understand the complexities of both Workers’ Compensation and personal injury law. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 732-906-1500 or contacting us online. Our offices in Brick, Freehold, Edison, and Toms River serve clients throughout the state, including Point Pleasant.
