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Most Common Causes of Texas Construction Accidents

In the event of a construction accident, workers are entitled to compensation for their injuries through the workers’ compensation system in Texas. Understanding the process, including reporting requirements and filing deadlines, is crucial for injured construction workers to receive the benefits they deserve.

However, it’s important to understand that in most cases, workers cannot sue their employer if the employer carries workers’ compensation insurance. Exceptions exist when an employer does not have workers’ compensation coverage, when a third party contributed to the accident, or in tragic cases involving gross negligence that results in a worker’s death. In such instances, the worker or their family may be eligible to file a lawsuit in addition to receiving workers’ compensation benefits.

If you are currently receiving workers’ compensation but believe your injuries were caused by a third party or involved gross negligence, our team at Abraham Watkins may be able to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury or wrongful death claim.

Call us today at 713-222-7211 to speak with a construction accident lawyer in Houston.

Common Ways Third Parties Contribute to Construction Accidents

Third-party causes refer to situations where someone other than your employer or a coworker contributed to or caused the incident. In Texas, this is especially important because the state does not require private employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. That means many injured workers must explore all available legal avenues to recover damages. Even when workers’ comp is available, third-party claims can provide additional compensation. Common construction site injuries include:

Gross Negligence Contributing to Construction Accidents

Gross negligence plays a devastating role in many serious and fatal construction accidents across Texas. Unlike ordinary negligence, gross negligence involves a willful disregard for known safety risks such as:

  • Ignoring repeated safety violations
    Continuing dangerous practices despite multiple citations from OSHA or internal safety warnings.

  • Removing or bypassing safety equipment
    Disabling machine guards, fall protection systems, or other safety features to save time or reduce costs.

  • Forcing workers to operate in clearly unsafe conditions
    Requiring work during severe weather, near unstable structures, or without necessary protective gear.

  • Failing to act on known hazards
    Management is made aware of a serious issue (like a structural defect or faulty equipment) and chooses not to address it.

  • Lack of training for high-risk tasks
    Assigning workers to operate cranes, scaffolding, or electrical equipment without proper training or certifications.

  • Allowing unpermitted or uninspected construction
    Moving forward with building or setup without inspections, permits, or structural evaluations.

  • Ignoring known defects in tools or machinery
    Continuing to use defective equipment that has caused or nearly caused previous injuries.

When gross negligence is involved, injured workers or their families may have grounds to pursue a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit—even if workers’ compensation benefits are in place. These claims can provide compensation for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and, in some cases, punitive damages meant to hold the negligent party fully accountable.

Workers’ Rights and Recourse: Taking Action After an Accident

If you have been involved in a construction accident, you have rights and options for recourse. You have the right to report the accident to your employer, seek medical attention, and consult with a lawyer. Remember, being well-informed is the first line of defense against construction accidents, and our lawyers are here to guide you through the complexities of this critical issue. 

When you work with Abraham Watkins, an experienced lawyer from our personal injury firm can guide you through filing a workers’ compensation claim, determine whether a third-party or non-subscriber claim applies, and advocate for the benefits and compensation you deserve. For skilled legal counsel and support, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team dedicated to safeguarding your rights and interests in the event of a construction-related incident. Contact Abraham Watkins to schedule a free consultation with a construction accident attorney in Houston. Dial 713-222-7211 today.

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