Construction Accident Lawsuit in Florida

Florida’s booming construction industry fuels growth across cities like Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. While these projects bring progress, they also come with risk. Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in the state, with accidents often leading to catastrophic injuries or even wrongful death.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a construction accident in Florida, you may have legal options. At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, our experienced injury lawyers have handled numerous workplace and third-party accident claims throughout Florida. We understand the challenges injured workers and their families face, from medical bills to lost wages, and we fight to hold negligent parties accountable.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents in Florida

Construction sites involve heavy machinery, multiple contractors, and constant activity. Unfortunately, even one mistake can lead to disaster. Some of the most common causes of construction accidents include:

• Falls from heights – Workers falling from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs.
• Falling objects – Tools, equipment, or building materials striking workers below.
• Electrocution – Contact with exposed wiring, power lines, or malfunctioning equipment.
• Heavy machinery accidents – Forklifts, cranes, and bulldozers causing crush injuries or rollovers.
• Trench and excavation collapses – Improperly supported trenches caving in.
• Slip and falls – Debris, uneven surfaces, or spills creating hazards.
• Defective equipment – Malfunctioning power tools or safety gear failing when needed most.
• Inadequate safety training – Workers not properly trained on OSHA safety rules.

Who May Be Held Liable in a Construction Accident?

Liability in a construction accident often depends on who created or failed to fix the unsafe condition. Possible responsible parties include:

• General contractors – Responsible for overall site safety.
• Subcontractors – If their negligence led to the injury.
• Property owners – When unsafe premises contributed to the accident.
• Equipment manufacturers – If defective machinery or tools caused harm.
• Third-party vendors – Such as electrical or scaffolding companies.

Workers’ compensation typically prevents lawsuits against employers, but many Florida construction accidents involve third-party claims that go beyond workers’ comp.

Types of Construction Accident Injuries

Construction site accidents can cause devastating injuries. Victims may suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Severe burns from fires or explosions
• Crush injuries and amputations
• Internal organ damage
• Eye injuries and vision loss
• Permanent disability or wrongful death

These injuries often require long-term treatment, rehabilitation, and life-care planning.

Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Lawsuits

In Florida, most injured construction workers are covered by workers’ compensation, which provides:

• Medical treatment
• Partial wage replacement
• Disability benefits

However, workers’ compensation does not cover all losses. It does not pay for full lost wages, pain and suffering, or punitive damages.

That’s where a third-party personal injury lawsuit comes in. If another company, contractor, or manufacturer’s negligence caused the injury, you may be able to sue for additional compensation.

Compensation Available in a Florida Construction Accident Lawsuit

In addition to workers’ comp benefits, victims may pursue damages through a personal injury claim, including:

• Full lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Medical expenses not covered by workers’ comp
• Future medical and rehabilitation costs
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Steps to Take After a Construction Accident

If you are injured on a Florida construction site, taking the right steps immediately can strengthen your claim:

1. Report the injury to your employer or supervisor right away.
2. Seek medical treatment – Even if injuries seem minor, they can worsen over time.
3. Document the accident – Take photos of the site, equipment, and hazardous conditions.
4. Get witness statements from coworkers or bystanders.
5. Preserve equipment and safety gear – They may be key evidence if defective.
6. Consult with a construction accident lawyer – An attorney can determine if you have both a workers’ comp claim and a third-party lawsuit.

Why Hire an Experienced Florida Construction Accident Lawyer?

Construction accident cases are complex. Employers, contractors, and insurance companies may try to limit your recovery. An experienced attorney can:

• Investigate the cause of the accident.
• Review OSHA records and safety violations.
• Identify all liable parties beyond the employer.
• Work with medical experts and economists to calculate future damages.
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies.
• File a lawsuit if necessary to protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Construction Accident Lawsuits

1. Can I sue my employer after a construction accident?

In most cases, no — workers’ compensation prevents lawsuits against your direct employer. However, you may have a claim against third parties such as contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners.

2. What if I was injured as a bystander near a Florida construction site?

If you were not a worker but were injured by falling debris or unsafe conditions, you may file a personal injury lawsuit against those responsible.

3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

Most Florida construction accident lawsuits must be filed within two years of the injury. Workers’ comp claims may have much shorter reporting deadlines, so act quickly.

4. Can undocumented workers file a construction accident claim in Florida?

Immigration status does not always prevent a worker from filing a workers’ comp claim or pursuing a third-party lawsuit.

5. What if faulty equipment caused my injury?

You may have a product liability claim against the equipment manufacturer, distributor, or retailer.

6. How much is my construction accident case worth?

The value depends on factors such as medical costs, lost income, and long-term disability. Severe injuries typically lead to higher settlements or verdicts.

7. Do I need a lawyer if workers’ comp already covers me?

Workers’ comp only pays part of your losses. A lawyer can explore additional claims to help maximize your recovery.

8. Can families file a lawsuit if a worker dies in a construction accident?

Surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.

9. What if multiple contractors are involved in the accident?

Construction sites often have multiple parties. A lawyer can identify each responsible party and pursue claims against them.

10. How much does it cost to hire a construction accident lawyer?

At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact a Florida Construction Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (800) 337-7755 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.