Las Vegas, where infrastructure and development are continuously happening, construction is always underway in the city. Well, construction sites rank as one of the most dangerous places to work in Las Vegas. Workers are surrounded by heavy equipment, uneven terrain, sharp edges, and harmful chemicals on a daily basis.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of construction injuries as of 2023 was 3.5 per 100 full-time workers. Despite strict regulations and safety protocols, incidents still happen, most often leading to severe and life-changing injuries.
If you or a family member has been injured on a construction site, speaking with a Las Vegas construction accident attorney can help you understand your rights and recover compensation for your injuries.
Below are six of the most severe injuries that can happen on a construction site:
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Head trauma is extremely common in construction. This can either be the result of falling equipment, a worker falling from a scaffolding, or collisions with heavy machinery.
TBIs range from concussions to full-blown, permanent brain injury. Despite wearing hard hats or rather safety helmets, force from impact can be strong enough to lead to severe injury.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
Rooftop, scaffold, and ladder falls result in spinal cord injuries. The partial or complete paralysis, ongoing pain, and losing the ability to do normal activities can be very devastating and completely change a victim’s life.
Also, spinal cord injuries require extensive medication and long-term rehabilitation, which can be costly in the long run. Research shows that spinal cord injuries that lead to loss of motor functions can cost an average of $347,000.
3. Crush Injuries
Crush injuries result from an employee being pinned by heavy machinery, getting stuck under fallen objects, or being hit by falling objects. Crush injuries may puncture critical internal organs, break multiple bones, or, in some extreme cases, require amputation. Crush injuries are among the most traumatic on the job.
4. Severe Burns
Las Vegas construction workers often encounter electrical wires, welding equipment, and flammable chemicals. All these poses as burn hazards.
When an accident occurs, the result can be second- or third-degree burns, which are very painful and may require extensive surgery like skin grafting. Additionally, severe burns are also prone to infection.
5. Broken Bones and Fractures
Fractures can be the result of several issues, like slipping, falling, and getting struck by equipment. Some fractures only take a few days to heal, but others may require surgery or physical therapy.
Fractures can also cause long-term problems that can prevent a worker from returning to work.
6. Eye Injury and Vision Loss
Flying debris, dust, chemical splashes, or welding arc (spark) exposure can all damage the eyes. Without proper eye protection, employees can develop severe eye injuries or even total blindness, especially when they are working without safety glasses.
Conclusion
Las Vegas’ construction industry is playing a crucial role in the city’s growth. However, workers are not always safe because of the nature of construction sites and the risks workers are exposed to daily. These are the kinds of injuries that have long-lasting effects on someone’s life. If you were hurt, you should know your rights.
