Injuries on construction sites in North Carolina are extremely common. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), one out of every 50 construction workers in North Carolina got injured on the job in 2020 (the most recent year of data). While construction workers are at risk for a variety of job-related injuries, the BLS data show that certain types of injuries are much more common than others.
What Are the Most Common Injuries on Construction Sites?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks work-related injuries and illnesses across more than a dozen different categories. These data show the most common types of injuries suffered by workers in the construction industry.
If you have suffered any of the following injuries on the job, we urge you to contact a construction accident lawyer at the Whitley Law Firm as soon as possible. Our attorneys will assess your injuries and advise you of your options for pursuing compensation.
Sprains, Strains, and Tears
Of the approximately 75,000 construction site injuries recorded in the building construction industry nationwide in 2020, nearly one-third (20,640) were sprains, strains, and tears. Sprains and strains involve stretching of the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the body, while tears involve ripping of the soft tissue.
Sprains and strains will generally heal on their own with adequate rest. Some tears will heal on their own as well, but surgery will be necessary in some cases.
Soreness and Pain
Following sprains, strains, and tears, the next most commonly reported construction site injury according to the BLS is general soreness and pain. More than 14,000 construction workers reported these conditions in 2020. Soreness and pain can be indicative of a variety of types of injuries, from soft tissue damage to injuries caused by repetitive stress.
Cuts, Lacerations, and Punctures
Cuts, lacerations, and punctures are also among the most common construction injuries. Nearly 10,000 construction workers reported suffering these injuries on the job in 2020.
Similar to sprains, strains, and tears, these injuries can vary widely in terms of their severity. While some construction workers will be able to return to work after receiving treatment, others will need to undergo a prolonged recovery and rehabilitation process.
Fractures
Nearly 10,000 construction workers also reported suffering bone fractures on the job in 2020. Fractures are common in a wide range of construction-related accidents, from slips and falls to collisions with vehicles and heavy equipment.
Construction workers who suffer bone fractures will often need to miss a significant amount of time from work. Securing workers’ compensation benefits (and/or other appropriate compensation) can be crucial for making a full recovery.
Bruises
After bone fractures, bruises are the next most common type of reported construction injury according to the BLS. While many construction workers will try to work despite suffering contusions, these injuries can be painful and debilitating. Severe bruises can have additional effects, and a swollen bruise can be a sign of a potentially serious injury.
Thermal Burns (from Fires and Explosions)
Thermal burns (burns caused by fires and explosions) are particularly common in the construction industry. Construction sites can be dangerous places – especially if they are not managed and supervised appropriately.
Electrical fires, gas spills, overheating tools, malfunctioning construction equipment, and various other issues can all lead to fires and explosions on construction sites. Unfortunately, when these accidents happen, they often result in devastating burn injuries for construction workers in the vicinity.
Other Types of Injuries
The BLS reports that more than 13,000 construction workers suffered injuries of “other natures” in 2020. From concussions and other traumatic brain injuries to herniated discs and other spinal cord injuries, many other types of injuries are common on construction sites as well. These injuries can also be painful and debilitating, and in many cases they can have long-term consequences.
Keep in mind that the numbers discussed above only reflect construction site injuries reported to the BLS. It is widely understood that far more injuries actually occur. Whether due to concerns about retaliation or other factors, many construction workers choose not to tell anyone when they get injured on the job.
What If You Suffered an Injury on a Construction Site in Raleigh?
If you have been injured on the job, it is important that you speak up. You have clear legal rights under North Carolina law. For example, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. You might also be able to bring a third party personal injury claim.
Contact the construction accident lawyers at the Whitley Law Firm for qualified help understanding your legal rights. Our attorneys will identify all of your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Please call (919) 785-5000 for service in Raleigh, Kinston, or New Bern. It won’t cost anything to see if we can help.
