Construction And Industrial Accidents

Tulsa Construction and Industrial Accident Attorney

Advocating for Victims of Construction and Industrial Accidents in Oklahoma

Construction workers, laborers, factory employees, and other industrial workers face a disproportionate risk of job-related injuries and deaths. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), about one in five worker fatalities within private industry in 2019 occurred in the construction industry.

At Brewster & De Angelis, we believe that no one should have to risk their life simply going to work, but we recognize that these incidents do happen. When they do, our Tulsa construction and industrial accident attorneys are there to help you and your family get back on your feet.

If you were injured or if someone you love died due to a construction or industrial accident, reach out to our firm right away to learn how we can help. We offer personalized and compassionate legal services, coupled with aggressive client advocacy throughout the entire legal process. Our attorneys have decades of experience and a long track record of success.

Call (918) 265-1214 or contact us online today to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Understanding Common Types of Construction and Industrial Accidents

Construction and industrial workers are often required to use heavy machinery, dangerous tools, powerful equipment, and work in hazardous conditions. As a result, they are susceptible to all types of serious accidents.

Some of the most common construction and industrial accidents involve:

  • Explosions and fires
  • Falls from heights/to lower levels
  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Scaffolding accidents
  • Structure/trench collapses
  • Forklift, crane, and other vehicle accidents
  • Defective tools and equipment
  • Machine entanglement
  • Crush/caught-between accidents
  • Electrocution
  • Being struck by falling objects

These and other common construction and industrial accidents can have devastating consequences, often leading to catastrophic injuries and deaths. Sadly, many of these accidents are also entirely preventable. Understanding the inherent dangers in these professions and being proactive about safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Employers must enforce safety protocols and ensure workers have access to proper safety gear and training. By maintaining a culture of safety, we can work towards lowering these alarming statistics.

Common Causes of Construction and Industrial Accidents

Many construction and industrial accidents are the result of inherent hazards of the job. Others, however, are caused by negligence. In some cases, intentional misconduct can even lead to these types of incidents.

According to OSHA, some of the most common causes of construction and industrial accidents include:

  • Lack of proper fall protection
  • Inadequate training
  • Failure to properly communicate hazards
  • Defective tools, machinery, and vehicles
  • Missing safety equipment, such as eye, face, and respiratory protection
  • Poorly constructed or defective scaffolding, ladders, and other equipment
  • Improper control of hazardous energy
  • Lack of machinery guards
  • Intentional employee or employer misconduct
  • Failure to remove or repair hazardous conditions
  • Improper warnings, labels, and other safety measures

Employers have a legal obligation to create and maintain a safe work environment. Regular training sessions, spot checks, and safety audits can help employers identify and rectify potential safety issues before they lead to accidents. Furthermore, fostering open communication with workers about safety concerns can create an environment where safety is given the highest priority. Employers can also leverage technology, such as safety apps, to monitor and improve workplace safety practices.

Determining Liability in Construction and Industrial Accidents

If you were injured on the job or suffered any type of work-related construction or industrial accident injury, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system that allows nearly all Oklahoma employees to recover certain monetary benefits when they are injured in the course of their employment. You do not need to prove that your employer was negligent in order to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, but in exchange, you generally cannot sue your employer directly after a workplace accident.

In some cases, injured construction and industrial workers may not qualify for workers’ compensation. This includes workers who are classified as “independent contractors,” rather than employees. In other instances, you could have a third-party personal injury claim in addition to a workers’ compensation claim. This might be the case if your injuries were the result of a third party’s negligence, or if a third party is strictly liable. For example, if you were injured using a defective machine on a construction site, you could have a workers’ compensation claim and a product liability claim against the manufacturer of the defective machine.

You may even have a claim against an independent contractor, property owner or landowner, site manager, or another individual or entity who negligently caused the accident and/or your injuries.

It can be difficult to determine who is liable for your damages, but our Tulsa construction and industrial accident attorneys are here to help. We have decades of experience, as well as access to invaluable resources and industry professionals, which helps us develop powerful, personalized legal strategies for our clients. We are happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.

Contact Our Tulsa Attorneys for Construction and Industrial Accident Cases

We recognize how devastating an impact construction and industrial accidents have on victims and their families. Our goal is to recover the full and fair compensation you are owed for your damages, including your current and future medical bills, lost wages, lost earning ability, pain and suffering, lost enjoyment of life, and more. If your loved one tragically died due to a construction or industrial accident, we can help you seek wrongful death benefits, such as funeral costs, medical expenses, lost income, lost support, and more.

There are no upfront or out-of-pocket fees when you hire our firm. Instead, our Tulsa construction and industrial accident attorneys only recover pay if/when they win your case. If we do not recover a settlement or verdict for you, you do not owe us a dime.

Get in touch with us today at (918) 265-1214 or contact us online to request a free initial consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction and Industrial Accidents

What types of compensation can I receive for injuries sustained in a construction accident?

Victims of construction accidents in Tulsa may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses for current and future treatment, lost wages due to time off work, and compensation for pain and suffering. If the accident resulted in a permanent disability, you might also seek compensation for lost earning capacity. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can help identify the full compensation you deserve.

Pursuing the right compensation requires a thorough understanding of both short-term and long-term impacts of your injuries. For instance, if an accident affects your quality of life or ability to partake in activities you once enjoyed, you may be eligible for additional damages for pain and suffering or emotional distress. Furthermore, future medical needs, such as ongoing therapy or future surgeries, should be considered in compensation discussions to ensure comprehensive coverage for lasting repercussions.

Why should I choose Brewster & De Angelis for my construction accident case in Tulsa?

Choosing Brewster & De Angelis for your construction accident case means you will receive personalized and compassionate legal support from a team with decades of experience. Our attorneys are dedicated to advocating for victims of construction and industrial accidents. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to guiding you through the legal process with aggressive representation. Plus, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case.

At Brewster & De Angelis, our approach goes beyond mere representation. We strive to build a trusting relationship, ensuring clear communication, availability, and a supportive environment. Our team utilizes a collaborative approach, pooling resources and insights from various legal professionals to unpack complex issues effectively. This thorough preparation is vital in constructing compelling arguments and identifying the strongest pathways to pursue the best possible outcomes for our clients.

How does workers’ compensation differ for construction workers in Tulsa?

In Tulsa, construction workers largely fall under the protection of the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Act, which provides benefits such as coverage for medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation, and partial wage replacement. This system supports workers regardless of fault, which means an injured worker generally does not need to demonstrate negligence to claim benefits.

 

Hence, understanding the nuances of this no-fault system is crucial. For example, independent contractors typically do not have the same protection as employees and may need to seek recourse through other legal avenues. Therefore, knowing one’s employment status is important in determining eligibility for compensation. Moreover, while the system aids in minimizing disputes over benefits, issues like denied claims can arise, necessitating legal intervention for favorable resolution.

What steps should I take immediately after a construction accident in Oklahoma?

After a construction accident in Oklahoma, prioritizing safety and documentation is critical. Firstly, ensure immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained. This not only ensures health but also provides an official record of injuries which is crucial for any future claims.

 

Next, report the accident to the employer promptly to ensure an official accident report is filed. Detailed documentation of the incident scene, including photographs, witness accounts, and conditions leading to the accident, is essential. Keeping personal notes can also help when recounting events. It is advisable to consult with an attorney experienced in construction accidents to streamline the process of claiming benefits or pursuing further legal actions, ensuring that legal deadlines and necessary documentation are effectively managed.

Can I file a personal injury claim in addition to a workers' compensation claim?

Yes, it is possible to file both a personal injury claim and a workers' compensation claim depending on the circumstances of the construction or industrial accident. Workers' compensation typically covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages but does not address pain and suffering or punitive damages, which are actionable through a personal injury claim.

 

If a third party's negligence contributed to the accident—such as a faulty piece of equipment from an independent manufacturer—you may pursue a separate personal injury claim against that party. Engaging with competent legal counsel like Brewster & De Angelis ensures an evaluation of your situation to determine all possible avenues of compensation. This comprehensive approach maximizes your potential recovery by recognizing and asserting all applicable claims.

Proven Results & Success

Hear From Our Past Clients
    "We are so grateful to the team at Brewster & DeAngelis."
    When we came to Brewster & DeAngelis, we had no idea what we wanted or what we were doing. We were broken and grieving and trying to make sense of a senseless situation, and Guy, Monty, Clark… the entire office, really, starting with the front desk… stepped in and took the burden off our shoulders. We didn’t have to worry about what we were doing or what we wanted anymore because they took the lead in a compassionate and efficient manner- they truly cared about helping our family and they didn’t ask us to carry any additional burdens- they took time to discover what we didn’t know we needed and they took care of business. They also made sure to address all of our needs outside of a “typical” legal experience by encouraging and facilitating our advocacy and educational awareness. We never wanted to need an attorney, but when we did, we were blessed to find amazing friends and supporters. We are so grateful to the team at Brewster & DeAngelis.
    - Cassie F.
    "Brewster & De Angelis Law Offices is truly remarkable."
    From the moment I reached out to them, their commitment to ethical standards and unwavering support shone through. Their dedication to doing what's right not only instilled confidence in their legal expertise but also made me feel genuinely cared for. Throughout my case, their kindness and support made a significant difference, making a challenging situation feel more manageable. I couldn't recommend Brewster & De Angelis Law Offices highly enough for their exceptional ethics and compassionate approach.
    - Christina F.
    "There are no words for how grateful I am to the entire Brewster & De Angelis team and how hard they worked to get justice for my son, Gavin, after 4 long years."
    There are no words for how grateful I am to the entire Brewster & De Angelis team and how hard they worked to get justice for my son, Gavin, after 4 long years. I sat in the court room for seven days and saw how hard each and everyone worked and the fight they put in each time they got up. I saw how much they cared. I strongly believe if it was not for this team, I would not have gotten justice for Gavin in his medical negligence case. I will forever be thankful.
    - Krystal B.
    "I will forever be grateful to the zealous lawyering and selfless generosity of this extraordinary law firm."
    My family and I are so grateful for the countless hours and all the hard work that each attorney and staff member of Brewster & De Angelis devoted over several years in the pursuit of justice. Clark Brewster and Katie Arnold McDaniel took the time to discover what no other person - not my previous defense attorney, the district attorney, or the Court - took the time to find. The erroneous cancelation of my driver’s license was the product of a court clerk’s mistake. What an amazing team! I will forever be grateful to the zealous lawyering and selfless generosity of this extraordinary law firm.
    - Stephen J.
    "Five stars!"
    Five stars! Katie is one amazingly smart cookie! Once she enters the room, you know you're in good hands! Also, probably best not to get on her bad side, you'll lose!
    - Brandon M.
    "I cannot recommend better advocates than the Brewster & DeAngelis Team."
    The office staff is polite, competent, and caring. Mr. Brewster and Mr. Fortney were generous with their time, giving detailed and informative advice. Katie Arnold McDaniel is a star. She has counseled me through various case types. Her ability to quickly understand information relevant to a dispute, analyze the issues, and find the means to resolve them is amazing to watch. Katie is a fierce advocate, compassionate, and trustworthy. She timely communicates and will do what she says she will do. I highly recommend this law firm.
    - Mallory M.
    "Mbilike is the most ethical and honest attorney around and his work ethics are top notch. Thank you Mbilike"
    Mbilike with Brewster & De Angelis represented me as a defendant in a case in Claremore Oklahoma. we went through 2.5 years of discovery, depositions and on into trial. His work was excellent and stood up to everything that the opposing council threw at us. The judge was obviously impressed by his writings and responses as well. We won on every account, and did not even argue our case after the plaintiff rested, as we knew the judge had all the information needed from the plaintiffs argument. this was a long arduous suit by some really unethical people and Mbilike put it on without a hitch and received a big win. Mbilike is the most ethical and honest attorney around and his work ethics are top notch. Thank you Mbilike
    - Jim C.
    "We will be forever grateful to them for giving us a chance to live again, following the single worst day of our lives."
    Jennifer and her team have been invaluable in helping us navigate life following my father's injury. The negligence of medical "professionals" left our family broken and afraid. Without the assistance of this wonderful team, we would not have ever recovered. They advised us, listened to us, supported us, and fought for us when no one else would. We will be forever grateful to them for giving us a chance to live again, following the single worst day of our lives.
    - Jessica M.

What Sets Brewster & De Angelis Apart?

  • Available & Responsive
    The attorneys at Brewster & De Angelis are always available to provide you with updates and answer questions regarding your case. At the end of the day, we work for you and pride ourselves on being available regardless of the situation.
  • Focused On Your Best Interests
    When going through a legal matter, things can seem scary and uncontrollable. Our team works to refine the legal process in order to ensure you not only understand exactly what is going on, but also that your goals and interests are taken into account with every decision.
  • Collaborative Legal Strategies
    Unlike other law firms, we handle a small number of cases so that our team can focus on getting you results. When it is time to get ready for trial, you can be assured that our full team of litigators has convened to get you the best possible outcome.
  • Dedicated & Trusted Counsel
    At Brewster & De Angelis we have the top litigators in Tulsa, Oklahoma and we have been serving our community for over forty years, giving us the tools and knowledge to aggressively and effectively handle your case.
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