While working at a construction site in California or elsewhere in the country may not seem overly risky, there are a variety of different workplace hazards that could ultimately cause harm to workers. Between requirements to work with heavy equipment or at great heights, construction workers — even those who are most committed to safety and follow all recommendations — can suffer injuries. Unfortunately, recent reports indicate that over 20 construction workers were injured when two cranes collided in another state.
The incident happened on a day in mid-September. According to reports, the cranes crashed into each other and became entangled over a building that was being constructed. The collision caused one of the cranes to collapse partially.
Reports indicate that rescue workers were on the scene soon after the incident, and those who suffered injuries did so in their attempts to escape the falling debris. Of the 22 people reportedly injured, 16 were taken to the hospital. One man remained inside one of the cranes at least an hour after the incident. A representative from the fire department reports that the man’s presence was helping stabilize the equipment and that he was in no danger.
Though all of the construction workers injured in the incident are expected to survive, the extent of their injuries is unclear. Many workers in California and across the country who have been injured at a construction site have required a lengthy recovery period. In some cases, they were unable to return to their job in the same capacity. Fortunately, they are likely covered by workers’ compensation insurance benefits which can help them with a variety of expenses related to their injuries, including medical bills, lost wages and even the costs associated with job retraining, if necessary. Because many people are unsure how to recognize a fair settlement, they often turn to an experienced professional for guidance.