Pursuing Compensation for Nail Gun Injuries on Tampa Construction Sites

Nail guns are some of the most dangerous tools on construction sites. Injuries involving these tools are quite common, and they can also be exceedingly painful. If you’re trying to pursue workers’ compensation for a nail gun injury in Tampa, you have every right to do so. If you have any questions about this process or you’re dealing with a denied claim, consider speaking with a Tampa workers’ comp lawyer.

How Common Are Nail Gun Injuries on Tampa Construction Sites? 

Some sources say that nail guns are the most common source of “struck-by” injuries in certain construction sectors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that nail gun injuries are especially common for those who use “contact” trigger nail guns, also noting that these tools are responsible for almost 40,000 emergency room visits each year. Another source notes that nail gun injuries have skyrocketed 200% since the early 90s.

It’s clear that nail guns represent a serious hazard to workers across the Sunshine State, especially homebuilders. That being said, there is seemingly little awareness and education surrounding this topic. Safety supervisors and foremen on construction sites must take this threat seriously.

How Do Nail Gun Injuries Occur on Tampa Construction Sites?

The hand is the body part most commonly associated with nail gun injuries. Because of the nature of these tools, they are likely to embed nails in the soft tissue of the victim’s hand in an accident. As a result, one of the first steps doctors need to take is to remove the nail from the worker’s hand. While this is not a complex procedure, it is important to remember that the hand is a complex structure, filled with fragile bones, nerves, and ligaments.

A nail could potentially cause permanent nail damage, fractures, and other issues when fully embedded in a victim’s hand. As a result, the victim might need to undergo complex surgery to repair nerve damage and restore function to the hand. Sometimes, these procedures are successful. Sometimes, they are not. As a result, a nail gun can easily cause a partial disability for a Tampa worker.

Can a Nail Gun Accident Be Fatal?

Yes, a nail gun accident can easily be fatal. Because the nail essentially acts like a projectile, it can have fatal consequences if it penetrates a vital organ or the brain. A severed artery may also be fatal. If your loved one died from a nail gun accident on a Tampa construction site, you may be able to pursue death benefits through workers’ comp.

Can a Tampa Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help Me? 

A Tampa workers’ comp lawyer may be able to help if you’re searching for answers after a nail gun injury. Whether you are disfigured or you’re facing a permanent disability, workers’ comp could be crucial as you recover and do your best to move on. Consider continuing this conversation alongside The Franco Law Firm today.

Sources: 

archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/niosh/newsroom/feature/nailgunsafety/default.html

cbc.ca/news/nail-gun-injuries-rise-200-per-cent-since-1991-u-s-report-finds-1.682348

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2586285/