Baton Rouge 

Construction Accident Attorney 

Fighting for Injured Construction Workers in Baton Rouge & Beyond

Construction workers continue to face the highest rates of workplace injuries and fatalities across the United States. Every year, thousands of construction workers are severely injured or killed on the job or as a result of devastating accidents and occupational illnesses. These incidents are largely avoidable and occur only because of employer, manufacturer, and third-party negligence. 

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we fight to hold these parties accountable for their careless and wrongful actions. Our construction accident lawyers in Baton Rouge have gone up against some of the largest and most powerful employers, manufacturers, and insurance providers in Louisiana, winning the results our clients need to heal and move forward with their lives. We have recovered more than $1 billion for our clients, including many million- and multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts.

Contact us today at (225) 209-9943 to set up a free consultation and learn more about your legal options after a construction accident. 

Common Construction Accidents in Baton Rouge

The nature of the job makes construction a dangerous industry. Every day, workers are exposed to a wide variety of risks, from navigating high scaffolding to avoiding falling objects. 

Some of the most common types of construction accidents include: 

• Falls: Whether from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs, falls are the leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities in construction.
• Being Struck By Falling Objects: Workers can be injured by falling tools, equipment, debris, and other materials.
• Electrocutions: Live wires and equipment can cause severe electrocution injuries or even fatalities. It’s crucial for construction firms to continually train their staff on electrical safety and ensure proper usage of protective gear.
• Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents: These occur when workers are trapped by machinery or other objects, leading to serious injuries or death.
• Lifting Injuries: Improper lifting techniques can cause chronic back injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. Companies should emphasize proper lifting methods to reduce such risks.
• Hazardous Exposure: Exposure to harmful materials, products, and chemicals can lead to serious injuries and illnesses.

These and other construction accidents are often the result of employer negligence. When this is the case, our team fights for justice on behalf of injured workers and the families of those wrongfully killed. Our Baton Rouge construction accident lawyers have extensive experience and are committed to securing the best possible results for our clients.

Leading Causes of Construction Accidents in Baton Rouge

Most construction accidents are preventable. These incidents occur because employers and other parties violate safety standards, fail to uphold proper safety protocols, or negligently disregard the safety of their employees. 

Many construction injuries arise from a lack of awareness about safety protocols. Regular training sessions to familiarize workers with the latest safety standards can serve as a deterrent to potential accidents. Additionally, having routine safety audits can ensure that employers are consistently meeting safety requirements, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the most commonly violated safety standards in construction for the 2022 fiscal year included:

• Improper fall protection
• Unsafe ladders
• Hazardous scaffolding
• Inadequate fall protection training
• Insufficient eye/face protection

Other common causes of construction accidents in Baton Rouge and throughout Louisiana include:

• Missing safety guards on power tools and equipment
• Lack of ground protection for falling objects
• Slip, trip, and fall hazards
• Defective or dangerous equipment
• Unsafe working conditions
• Negligent hiring or training practices
• Inadequate hazard communication

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we investigate construction accident claims to determine exactly what happened and, importantly, who is liable. Then, we fight to hold the liable party accountable.

Baton Rouge Construction Safety Regulations

In Baton Rouge, construction firms must adhere to specific safety guidelines and regulations to reduce workplace accidents. The Louisiana Workforce Commission enforces statewide construction safety standards, which are designed to protect workers from preventable injuries. Adherence to these regulations is vital. Failure to comply can lead to significant legal consequences for businesses and increased risk for workers. Ensuring all employees are trained in OSHA standards and local regulations not only prevents accidents but creates a safer work atmosphere. 

Construction sites across Baton Rouge are frequently inspected for compliance with these standards, which cover everything from proper scaffolding use to managing hazardous materials. Employers are required to provide appropriate protective gear and ensure all machinery meets safety criteria. Regular audits and safety training sessions are essential in maintaining compliance. As a worker, knowing your rights and the regulations that protect you is paramount in advocating for a safer workplace.

Common Construction Accident Injuries in Baton Rouge

Because of the severity of most construction accidents, the injuries arising from these incidents tend to be equally as catastrophic. Survivors of construction accidents often face not just immediate physical injuries, but also long-term repercussions that affect their quality of life. It is crucial for injured workers to seek both immediate medical treatment and ongoing care to address their obvious and less-obvious injuries, such as trauma-related stress disorders.

Some of the most common construction accident injuries include: 

• Amputation 
• Back and neck injuries 
• Bone fractures 
• Brain injuries 
• Burns 
• Electrocution 
• Eye and face injuries 
• Hearing loss 
• Lacerations and contusions 
• Paralysis 
• Spinal cord injuries 

The physical, emotional, and financial toll of these injuries can be overwhelming, but we are here to help you navigate the recovery process. Our Baton Rouge construction accident lawyers can guide you through this difficult time, helping you seek maximum compensation for your past, current, and future damages.

Filing a Wrongful Death Construction Accident Claim

Tragically, many construction accidents are fatal. If you have lost a loved one due to a construction accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. This type of claim allows families to seek compensation for lost wages, funeral expenses, and emotional suffering, among other damages. 

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we understand that no monetary value can “make up” for the loss of a loved one. However, obtaining compensation can ease some of the burdens during these challenging times by covering expenses and providing financial security. Our team handles these cases with sensitivity, ensuring that the process is as smooth as possible for grieving families. It's essential for families to reach out quickly, as there are time limits to consider when filing these claims.

We approach wrongful death claims with the utmost compassion and sensitivity. Our team understands the profound grief families experience during such a challenging time, and we are committed to fighting for the justice you and your loved one deserves.

How Our Baton Rouge Construction Accident Lawyers Can Help

After a construction accident, it's important that you work with an attorney who understands the nuances of your case, as well as Louisiana's construction industry and personal injury laws.

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we can help by:

• Providing a Free, Personalized Case Evaluation: We can assess the details of your accident and advise you on the best course of action, as well as inform you of your rights under Louisiana law.
• Conducting a Thorough Investigation: Our legal team collects evidence, reviews accident reports, and interviews witnesses to build a strong foundation for your case.
• Identifying The Liable Party/Parties: We analyze job site conditions and determine responsibility, whether it lies with your employer, a manufacturer, or a third party.
• Coordinating with Medical Providers: We can work with providers to obtain copies of your medical records, as well as assist in documenting your injuries and treatments. 
• Negotiating with Liable Parties: Our attorneys handle communications with insurance companies and strive to secure fair settlements that cover medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
• Guiding You Through the Legal Process: We can walk you through each step, from filing paperwork to preparing for court appearances if necessary.

If you are seeking a construction accident lawyer in Baton Rouge, it’s important to choose a team that understands the local challenges facing workers in industries along the Mississippi River and throughout the city’s many development projects. Working with a dedicated attorney means you have an advocate who not only strives to recover fair compensation for medical bills and lost wages, but also recognizes the vital role your work plays in our community. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, every client receives individualized attention and compassionate guidance from their initial consultation to the resolution of their case.

You don’t have to face this alone. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, contact us today. Together, we can pursue the justice you deserve.

Call us at (225) 209-9943 for a free consultation with one of our experienced construction accident attorneys in Baton Rouge. 

Baton Rogue Construction Accident FAQ

What Should I Do Immediately After a Construction Accident?

If you've been involved in a construction accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention, even if your injuries appear minor. Prompt medical treatment not only ensures your well-being but documents your injuries, which is vital for any future legal proceedings you may choose to pursue. 

It's also important to report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. Maintaining a detailed account of the events, including taking photographs and collecting witness statements, can be instrumental in supporting your personal injury or workers' compensation case. 

How Can a Construction Accident Lawyer Help?

A construction accident lawyer plays a crucial role in navigating the legal recovery process. They can help identify the liable party or parties, whether it be the construction company, a manufacturer, or other third parties. Your attorney can also gather necessary evidence to build a strong case. What's more, your lawyer can handle all communication with your employer's insurance company and strive to secure a fair settlement that covers your resulting medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. 

Am I Entitled to Compensation After a Construction Accident? 

If you were injured in a construction accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the extent of your injuries and the circumstances of the incident. If covered, you may be entitled to workers' compensation, which provides medical expense coverage and wage replacement benefits. You could also be eligible for a third-party work injury claim, allowing you to seek compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and loss of earning capacity. Pain and suffering, as well as emotional distress, may also be considered, though such damages are not usually available under workers' compensation. For more information, we urge you to contact our team at Clayton, Frugé & Ward right away.

How Long Do I Have to File a Construction Accident Injury Claim? 

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including third-party construction accident claims, is typically two years from the date of the accident if the incident occurred on or after July 1, 2024. If you were injured before this date, you generally have just one year to sue for damages.

For workers' compensation claims, timelines can be stricter. In addition to having just one year to file a workers' compensation lawsuit (with some exceptions), you are also required to report the injury to your employer within 30 days if you wish to seek benefits. This time frame can vary depending on the specifics of the case, so it's important that you contact a Baton Rouge construction accident lawyer as soon as possible. 

Why Is It Important to Choose a Local Baton Rouge Lawyer?

A local construction accident lawyer, like the attorneys at Clayton, Frugé & Ward, will possess an in-depth understanding of Louisiana's laws and the specific challenges faced by workers in this region. Our local team is familiar with the area's courts and has established relationships with local judges. Furthermore, we bring a personalized touch to each case. We are easy to reach when you need guidance and support.