Scaffolding Accidents

Scaffolding is a temporary platform or other structure that is used to help build, install, repair, do brickwork on, or paint an area that cannot be reached by a ladder or another device. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 88 deaths from scaffolding in 2007, while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports approximately 4,500 scaffolding accidents each year.

All employers, bosses, and other workers who work with scaffolding must follow certain safety regulations established by OSHA. The OSHA regulations apply not only to the maintenance and operation of scaffolding, but are also applicable to the design and manufacturing of the product. Despite these regulations, costs, haste and other reasons often result in deviations from the regulations. When these regulations are not followed, the unfortunate result is often worker injury or death.

Possible Causes

Scaffolding accidents may occur in a number of situations, including incidents involving:

• Scaffolding that is assembled incorrectly
• Scaffolding that is improperly manufactured
• Supports that fail or collapse
• Scaffolding that is broken
• Inadequate safety training or equipment
• The existence of slippery surfaces

Possible Consequences of Scaffolding Accidents

Due to the height often involved in scaffolding accidents, injuries sustained often can be severe and/or fatal. They may include serious fractures, head injuries, broken bones, spinal trauma that could lead to paralysis, and death.

In addition to the physical harm sustained in a scaffolding accident, victims and their families often times must deal with a great amount of emotional and financial stress. Costs following the accident can include medical, nursing and psychological care. Also, lost wages and disability may be a factor.

What to Do After an Accident

Immediate medical care is crucial after a scaffolding accident. It is also important for a thorough investigation of the accident, including preserving evidence and interviewing witnesses, to take place as soon as possible. An experienced attorney will be able to do this – particularly if it is necessary to get court orders to help preserve evidence on the site. Calling the appropriate oversight authorities, such as OSHA, is also important.

Scaffolding Accident Victim Representation at the Law Firm of Altman & Altman

For over 40 years, the Greater Boston Law Firm of Altman & Altman has provided first-rate legal services to accident victims and their families. Our firm has recovered millions of dollars in settlements and jury awards on behalf of our clients.

The MA scaffolding accident attorneys at Altman & Altman understand the enormous impact that a scaffolding accident has on the daily lives of victims and their loved ones. Our dedicated team of Massachusetts scaffolding accident attorneys will field all of your legal questions and will handle every aspect of your scaffolding accident lawsuit, including any potential worker’s compensation claims. Our Greater Boston Scaffolding Accident Lawyers will assess liability and will not hesitate to take your case to trial if necessary.

At Altman & Altman, we pride ourselves on being accessible to our clients – both current and potential. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day 7 days a week. In addition, all emails sent to the firm receive a response within 4 hours, often sooner.

Please contact the law firm of Altman & Altman to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Scaffolding Accident Attorneys.

Our Firm Does NOT Charge a Fee Unless you Recover