Any building under construction is in a precarious position. Even if California workers do their part to ensure that they follow the proper procedures to secure the structure, unexpected construction accidents can occur. Unfortunately, these events are often catastrophic.
It was recently reported that a building collapse in another state resulted in serious and fatal injuries to workers. Apparently, a Hard Rock Hotel that was under construction partially collapsed while 112 workers were on the site. Though only the top floors collapsed, there is concern that the structural integrity of the remaining portion is compromised, which has caused officials to close multiple streets in the area and require approximately 100 residents nearby to vacate their homes for the time being. It was unclear what may have caused the building to collapse.
Of the workers on the scene, two suffered fatal injuries in the incident, and another worker remains missing. It was noted that another three dozen workers suffered injuries in the event. It did not appear that any other people near the site at the time of the collapse suffered injuries. An investigation, rescue search and efforts to prevent further problems were underway.
Sudden construction accidents can be far-reaching. As this incident shows, workers can suffer severe injuries and even lose their lives. In the aftermath of such incidents, information regarding workers’ compensation may be important to injured workers as well as the surviving families of those killed. Understanding how to apply and learning what benefits may stem from workers’ comp could be useful to California residents.