Louisiana

Construction Accident Attorney

Helping Injured Workers in Louisiana. Over $1 Billion Won.

Construction remains one of the most dangerous lines of work in the United States. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 21% of all workplace fatalities nationwide occur in construction. The industry faces a high fatality rate because workers deal with heavy objects, work at significant heights, and face exposure to hazardous chemicals. These risks put workers in danger of serious injuries. Employers must follow federal safety regulations to ensure worksites remain as safe as possible. When employers fail to provide safe work environments, we hold them accountable for each and every injury they cause.

Beyond individual responsibilities, systemic issues also contribute to high-risk situations. Insufficient training, lack of adequate safety equipment, and excessive work hours without proper breaks further increase the risks that many construction workers face daily. 

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, our Louisiana construction accident attorneys have secured more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for plaintiffs, changing thousands of lives across the state. We have taken on major developers, employers, and insurers in Louisiana because our firm brings together accomplished injury lawyers who understand challenging cases. If anyone can make things right for injured construction workers and their families, it is us. Our commitment includes meticulous legal representation and meaningful support throughout your healing and recovery process.

Contact our experienced Louisiana construction accident attorneys for a free case review: (225) 209-9943.

What Are the OSHA “Fatal Four” Accidents in Construction?

OSHA’s annual fatality statistics highlight the most common causes of construction accidents. Identifying the so-called “fatal four” is a critical step in reducing workplace fatalities. By recognizing these top risks, employers can implement safety measures to address and reduce harm. Targeted training on hazard identification and compliance with safety rules can lower these occurrences.

OSHA lists the most common construction fatalities as the following “fatal four”:

• Falls (39.9% of total construction fatalities)
• Struck by Object (8.4% of total construction fatalities)
• Electrocution (8.5% of total construction fatalities)
• Caught in Between (1.4% of total construction fatalities)

Local job sites, especially those on large projects like bridge construction over the Mississippi River or industrial plant expansions near Lake Charles, present unique hazards not seen on smaller worksites. Plus, Louisiana’s humid climate increases certain risks, such as slips and falls. Each site needs a tailored safety plan that addresses both OSHA requirements and local safety concerns to protect workers and comply with Louisiana standards.

How Louisiana Employers Can Help Prevent Construction Accidents

Employers may fail to meet OSHA standards and sometimes encourage workers to take unnecessary risks. Each construction site should have a thorough safety program, including regular audits, employee feedback systems, and defined corrective actions for safety breaches. Technology, such as wearable safety devices and site monitoring systems, can offer real-time hazard alerts that help prevent accidents. These efforts raise the standard of workplace safety and reduce the risk of injuries on Louisiana construction sites.

Louisiana’s construction workforce often includes both large general contractors and smaller subcontractors. Differences in company procedures or language barriers can lead to confusion about rules. Prevention demands clear communication—sometimes in several languages—guides on parish requirements, and close cooperation with safety inspectors so workers adapt to evolving risks in Louisiana’s fast-changing construction economy.

Employers may be considered negligent when they:

• Permit poor site design or inadequate site inspections
• Fail to note or warn of hazards, such as holes or trenches
• Violate safety standards or OSHA regulations
• Improperly secure work equipment
• Fail to adequately maintain tools or equipment
• Fail to properly train or supervise workers

Injured? Our Louisiana Construction Accident Lawyers Can Help.

After an accident, workers may believe they are at fault, but all too often other factors could have prevented the injury. Employers must maintain safe job sites and train employees on hazards. They must also take adequate steps to prevent employee injuries and ensure that all required tools and equipment are adequately maintained. 

We know construction regulations and analyze every aspect of an accident to identify all liable parties. Our mission is to help victims receive the full compensation they deserve—covering medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and other losses. When you work with our construction accident lawyers in Louisiana, you gain the support of a dedicated legal team and the reassurance that we will protect your rights throughout your claim.

Construction accident claims require a thorough investigation of the job site, including a review of maintenance logs, safety documentation, and the equipment involved. Louisiana’s construction industry often involves both contractors and subcontractors, which can expand the list of responsible parties. Evidence such as site photos, incident reports, or witness statements can strengthen a case by exposing unsafe practices or past violations. Workers who document their injuries and accident details promptly give themselves the best chance for a fair legal recovery.

If you have been injured in a construction accident because of another person’s negligence, contact our Louisiana construction accident lawyers for a free case review: (225) 209-9943!

Understanding Construction Accidents in Louisiana

Louisiana’s legal framework for construction accidents includes both state laws and federal rules. The state focuses on worker safety and supports local initiatives to improve jobsite protections across Louisiana. Workers should understand their rights under Louisiana labor laws, which can include access to workers' compensation benefits and options for recovery through personal injury claims. These legal remedies can help pay for medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages while a worker recovers.

Most Louisiana construction companies must carry workers' compensation insurance, which gives employees access to prompt care and compensation without litigation. When employer negligence or third-party liability plays a role, our team at Clayton, Frugé & Ward can take steps to hold the at-fault parties accountable. We help Louisiana workers understand their legal rights and navigate complex disputes so their voices are heard in court or with insurers.

Navigating construction accident laws in Louisiana requires understanding the differences between Louisiana’s civil code and the common law systems used in most states. The civil code may impact timelines, how damages are calculated, and how fault is proven. In claims against subcontractors or equipment manufacturers, venue and jurisdiction rules can be critical. Attorneys who work frequently with Louisiana’s construction statute updates and regional courts can help applicants understand the best forums for their case and avoid missing key legal deadlines.

Comprehensive Support for Injured Workers

Recovering from a construction injury takes more than physical healing. Injured workers need practical support with medical care, lost wages, and the uncertainty of returning to work. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, our team provides legal guidance, helps clients coordinate with medical and rehabilitation providers, and gives direction on claims paperwork and follow-up needs that can arise months after an accident.

Rehabilitation after a construction accident in Louisiana can require a range of treatments—orthopedic, neurologic, and physical therapy care are common. Many workers benefit from resources for job retraining, trauma counseling, and help arranging workplace accommodations through Louisiana agencies. Getting the right local help quickly supports a smoother recovery and can increase independence for those coping with serious work injuries.

Our Louisiana construction accident lawyers are familiar with Louisiana’s network of medical professionals and rehabilitation centers and can connect clients with these resources to help them receive the right care for their injuries. By building strong relationships within our local community, we empower people hurt on job sites to focus on healing while we strive to relieve the legal stress involved in fighting for fair compensation.

Common Construction Injuries in Louisiana

Construction accidents in Louisiana often result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-term or permanent consequences. 

Some of the most common injuries arising from construction accidents include: 

• Falls: Falls from scaffolding or ladders often cause fractures, head injuries, and blunt force trauma.
• Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries are devastating and, sometimes, deadly, often resulting from falls or struck-by incidents.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal injuries often require ongoing medical treatment and may lead to permanent impairment or paralysis. 
• Burns and Electrocution: Workers exposed to electrical hazards face the risk of severe burns or electrocution.
• Crush Injuries: Those in excavation sites may suffer crush injuries from cave-ins or falling materials. 
• Lacerations: Cuts and lacerations are also common due to the frequent use of heavy machinery and sharp tools on job sites.
• Heat Stroke or Heat Exhaustion: Louisiana’s construction industry sees a higher risk for heat-related illnesses, especially during summer months. 
• Dehydration: Prolonged work under high humidity can lead to dehydration or heatstroke, which can be just as life-altering as traumatic physical injuries. 
• Eye Injuries: Eye injuries may occur from flying debris and/or a lack of adequate protective eyewear.
• Repetitive Motion/Strain Injuries: Repetitive motion injuries, as well as overuse and overexertion, can result from frequent heavy lifting.
• Toxic Exposure: Respiratory conditions caused by dust and chemical exposure are relatively common. 

These injuries impact not only a worker’s ability to earn a living but may also lead to growing medical costs or the need for specialized therapeutic care far beyond the initial emergency or surgery.

Who May Be Liable for a Construction Accident?

Determining liability in a construction accident often involves examining the actions of more than one employer or supervisor. Several different parties may be responsible for safety on a job site, and the laws in Louisiana recognize this complexity. 

Possible liable parties in a construction accident can include: 

• The general contractor
• Subcontractors
• Equipment manufacturers
• Property owners
• Any person or party whose negligence caused the injury

Each may hold a duty to maintain safe working conditions or provide warning of known dangers, depending on their specific role and contractual responsibilities.

Under Louisiana law, employers usually provide workers’ compensation, but when third-party negligence occurs—such as a defective product or the reckless action of another contractor—injured workers may seek compensation through a third-party injury claim. In cases involving municipal or state-owned projects, different rules or notice requirements may govern who can be held liable and how lawsuits proceed. Identifying all responsible parties early can improve a worker’s options and may increase available financial relief for medical care, wage loss, or other long-term effects of a serious accident.

What to Do After a Construction Accident in Louisiana

Taking the right steps after a construction accident can help protect your health and strengthen your ability to recover compensation. Immediately after an injury, seek medical care first—even minor issues now could signal a more serious condition later. Afterward, document every aspect of the incident, including the time, location, and those present at the scene. If possible, take photos of hazardous conditions or faulty equipment that contributed to the event, as this evidence can be critical down the line.

Louisiana law also requires that most work accidents be reported to an employer as soon as possible. Delays may affect access to workers’ compensation benefits or legal rights, so written communication works best to create a record. Keep copies of all medical bills, receipts, and correspondence related to your injury. Consider consulting a construction accident attorney in Louisiana with knowledge of the local legal system to clarify your options and ensure your next actions support your claim. Taking these steps promptly can preserve your rights and provide a clearer path toward financial and physical recovery.

To speak to a construction accident attorney in Louisiana at no cost, call (225) 209-9943 or contact us online today.

Louisiana Construction Accident FAQ

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Construction Accident?

Protect your health and safety immediately after a construction accident. Seek medical care right away, even if you feel fine, since some injuries may appear later or get worse over time. A prompt medical exam creates an official injury record, which can be critical for future workers' compensation claims or legal actions.

Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible and provide detailed information about what happened. Document everything connected to the incident, including witness contact details, photos of the site, and communications with your employer. Next, contact a Louisiana construction accident attorney at Clayton, Frugé & Ward to review your options for compensation and ensure your rights remain protected throughout the claims process.

How Are Construction Accident Claims Handled in Louisiana?

Handling a construction accident claim in Louisiana typically includes several stages. First, your attorney collects all details about the accident and, if needed, consults experts to build a strong claim foundation. Next, your attorney files the required paperwork with the proper courts or agencies. During discovery, both sides exchange information and may start negotiations for a fair settlement. If a resolution isn’t reached, the case may go to trial for a judge or jury to decide liability. By working with our team early, you put yourself in the best position to achieve a better result.

What Compensation Is Available for Construction Accident Victims?

Victims of construction accidents in Louisiana may receive compensation through workers' compensation and personal injury lawsuits. Workers' compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and disability benefits without proving fault against an employer. If you can show negligence or third-party liability, you may also claim for pain and suffering, ongoing medical costs, rehabilitation, and sometimes punitive damages. Our team at Clayton, Frugé & Ward evaluates all possible avenues to help maximize your recovery, working to secure the compensation you need to move forward.

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

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a construction accident is generally two years from the date of the accident if the incident occurred on or after July 1, 2024. If the accident happened before this date, you have one year to file a personal injury lawsuit.

If you need to apply for workers' compensation, file your claim right away. Most of the time, you must report the injury to your employer within 30 days to stay eligible for workers' comp benefits. The deadline to file a workers' compensation claim in Louisiana is one year from when the injury happened or from when you discovered the injury.

Because of these strict deadlines, secure legal representation as soon as possible. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we know timely action is critical and guide our clients efficiently through the legal process.

Can I Sue My Employer for a Construction Accident in Louisiana?

Workers' compensation laws in Louisiana usually prevent employees from suing their employers for accidents on the job. However, if intentional harm or a third party’s negligence—such as that of a contractor or equipment manufacturer—caused the injury, legal action may be possible. We recommend you consult a construction accident attorney at our firm who can assess your claim and identify potential cases against third parties. Clayton, Frugé & Ward reviews your situation thoroughly and offers trusted guidance on all your possible legal options.