Columbia Bridge Accident Lawyer
Recent bridge accidents near Columbia, Missouri have highlighted both the danger of bridgework and the importance of proper safety measures. On September 27th, a worker fell from the Missouri River Bridge, near Rocheport, into the Missouri River below due to malfunctioning safety equipment. Luckily, the worker survived but was injured in the fall. Less than a month later, on October 26th, another bridge accident occurred near Kearney, Missouri that resulted in the death of one worker and multiple injuries to others. Both accidents are still under investigation, but further underscores the importance of protecting workers with adequate safety measures and procedures. When accidents occur, those who have been injured or killed may be eligible for personal injury or workers’ compensation benefits. Contact a Columbia bridge accident lawyer to learn more.
Bridge Accidents are Becoming More Frequent
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there has been a noted increase in bridge construction workplace accidents over the years. Both of these local incidents also highlight one of the construction industry’s most glaring statistics; that falls account for the highest number of overall construction fatalities each year. In fact, falls make up over 36 percent of all reported fatalities in the construction industry according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). In addition, a study by the American Society of Civil Engineers found that 27% of bridges throughout the U.S. are considered either structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. This means increased construction efforts to upgrade and repair bridges throughout the nation. Unfortunately, this also means the potential for more accidents, which can put workers at greater risk of suffering a permanent injury.
These bridge accidents in Kearney and Rocheport are a stark reminder of how even something seemingly as simple as bridge repair can be deadly if proper safety measures are not taken. Employers are required by law to provide a safe work environment and should be held responsible if their negligence or failure to do so results in personal injury or death. A knowledgeable attorney in Columbia could help ensure bridge accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve.
Knowing Your Rights After a Bridge Incident
Physical trauma suffered due to bridgework can often result in catastrophic personal injury or wrongful death, as was the case with these recent events. Both of these bridge accidents will likely result in personal injury and/or workers’ compensation claims. If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of a bridgework accident, it is important to understand your rights. A personal injury or workers’ compensation lawyer in Columbia can help bridge incident victims and their loved ones understand their rights. In most cases, the first option is to explore a workers’ compensation claim, which can provide medical and lost wage benefits. In some situations, personal injury claims may also be available if negligence or recklessness played a role in the incident.
Whether it’s a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury case, both are complex areas of the law and require experienced personal injury or workers’ compensation attorneys to ensure that your rights are protected. A skilled representative will painstakingly investigate the accident, interview witnesses, and review evidence as to who should be held responsible for the injury or death. They’ll also negotiate with insurance companies to get you the maximum available compensation and represent you in court if necessary.
Contact Our Columbia Attorneys to Understand Your Legal Options After a Bridge Accident
The Columbia Law Offices of Chris Miller provides personal injury and workers’ compensation legal services throughout Missouri. Our experienced Columbia bridge accident lawyers take an aggressive approach to representing injured parties in personal injury cases, whether it’s due to a construction accident, car crash, medical malpractice, premises liability, or any other type of personal injury.
We are also experienced in workers’ compensation cases and can ensure that you get the maximum benefits that you are entitled to. If you’ve been injured due to the negligence of another, please contact us today for a free consultation.