Two Incidents Show How Dangerous Construction Work Is in Tampa

Construction workers in Tampa face all kinds of threats during the average workday. The specific nature of these hazards depends on the type and location of the work site, but some dangers are universal. Two recent incidents in the Tampa Bay Area show that despite safety improvements over the past few decades, construction is still an incredibly dangerous industry. If you’re recovering from a construction accident, consider speaking with a Tampa workers’ compensation lawyer.

Construction Worker Struck by Passing Car 

In early March, a construction worker in the Tampa area was struck by a passing vehicle while working at a roadside site. The 54-year-old was trying to direct traffic flow, and he was holding a stop sign when he was hit by the vehicle. Obviously, the person driving the vehicle didn’t see the stop sign – or perhaps they just didn’t care.

The worker’s injuries were so intense that he had to be airlifted to the nearest hospital for immediate treatment. Later, health care providers reported that his condition had stabilized – and that he was expected to survive. However, these injuries are still serious – and probably life-altering. Police did not reveal whether the driver of the vehicle had been arrested or issued traffic tickets.

Air ambulance transport can be incredibly expensive for the average Florida resident, and a single trip can cost upwards of $45,000. Fortunately, workers’ compensation should cover all necessary medical expenses – including air ambulance rides.

Wild Scenes in Manatee County as Construction Laborer Bites Co-Worker 

Although the typical construction site is filled with serious safety hazards, sometimes the workers themselves represent the greatest threats. This became clear after a stunning incident in Manatee County in which a construction laborer bit her co-worker. Police say the incident occurred on a work site on the site of I-75.

Two of the workers began arguing at the site, and this verbal altercation eventually became physical. The female aggressor allegedly bit the cheek of her male co-worker before hitting him over the head with a piece of steel rebar. According to first responders, he suffered “significant injuries” but refused medical transport. The woman responsible for the attack was arrested and charged with assault.

Generally speaking, you should always accept ambulance transport at the scene of a workplace accident. Workers’ comp will cover this expense – even after an assault by a co-worker. In addition, refusing treatment can make it difficult to prove that your injuries are legitimate.

Can a Tampa Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help After a Construction Accident? 

If you have been injured in some kind of construction accident (or attack), consider speaking with a Tampa workers’ compensation lawyer. Your claim should provide enough to cover most of your lost income and all of your medical expenses. However, denied claims are relatively common – and a lawyer can help you push back with effective appeals. Contact The Franco Law Firm today to get started with an effective action plan.

Sources: 

fox13news.com/news/construction-worker-hit-car-seriously-injured-vpd

wtsp.com/article/news/local/manateecounty/construction-workers-fight-i-75-manatee-county/67-5fe9209b-c306-40ca-a139-d4fe20e96f82