Roofing Accidents
Construction is widely recognized as one of the most dangerous lines of work. But even within the field of construction, there are some types of work that are more risky than others. Roofing jobs are particularly hazardous. Roofing jobs require a lot of bending, lifting, and climbing, all while working at an increased height.
Unfortunately, roofing accidents are fairly common, and they can result in catastrophic injuries. Individuals in the Houston, TX, area who are injured in a roofing accident can work with construction accident lawyer Michael E. Shelton to pursue financial compensation for the physical, emotional, and economic damages of their injury.
Common Causes of Roofing Accidents
Roofing jobs are inherently dangerous. Working at increased heights and on uneven surfaces naturally increases the risk of a slip, fall, or other accident. Unfortunately, if proper safety precautions are not taken, the risk of a roofing accident is even greater. Factors that are common causes of roofing accidents include:
- Loose materials
- Falling objects
- Lack of safety equipment
- Insufficient safety training
- Fallen ladder
- Collapsed scaffolding
- Equipment malfunction
- Prolonged heat exposure
- Electrocution
Injuries Caused by Roofing Accidents
Roofing accidents can result in a wide range of injuries. In many cases, an accident causes a construction worker to fall off the roof completely, which can be catastrophic or deadly. Roofing accident injuries that are common among our Houston clients include:
- Puncture wounds
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Spinal cord injury
- Neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Who Is Liable for Roofing Accidents?
Determining liability for a roofing accident is important because it allows our Houston clients to hold liable parties accountable for their damages. Liability for a roofing accident will depend on the specific circumstances of each case.
Michael E. Shelton will gather evidence to determine what caused the accident so we can hold responsible parties accountable. Fault for a roofing accident may fall with the roofing or construction company, a manufacturer of a defective product, or the property owner.
- Construction/roofing company: Many roofing accidents are the fault of the construction or roofing company employed to do the job. A failure to provide safety equipment, improper training, or neglect of OSHA standards can all lead to roofing accidents.
- Manufacturer: If an accident is the result of faulty safety equipment or a defective tool, the manufacturer of that piece can be held liable for accident damages.
- Property owners: Property owners are rarely held liable for roofing accidents. However, if unsafe property conditions lead to an accident, the property owner may be held liable under premises liability laws.
Roofing Accident Damages
Physical injuries are only one type of damage that may stem from a roofing accident. Accident victims are likely to suffer physically, emotionally, and financially. It is important that the person or party who is liable for the accident be held accountable for all damages related to the accident, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of wage earning potential
- Funeral expenses, loss of income/benefits, and loss of consortium (in the event the accident is fatal)
Contact Us
Construction accident lawyer Michael E. Shelton has helped many clients obtain the financial compensation they are due following an accident. If you’d like to learn how our legal team can be of assistance to you in the aftermath of a roofing accident, send us a message online or call (713) 807-0700 as soon as possible to schedule a consultation.
