The Maine equipment accident and failure attorneys of Peter Thompson & Associates are dedicated to defending the rights of victims injured by the negligence of others. We have helped numerous individuals harmed by equipment accidents and other construction failures. Our firm provides unparalleled legal representation to clients across Maine.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a large majority of construction accidents are caused by accidents involving construction equipment and tools. While ensuring speed and efficiency, these products are also extremely dangerous. In fact, equipment failures cause some of the most devastating accidental injuries and deaths in the construction industry. The unsupervised or improper use of equipment can cause the loss of fingers, limbs, and life. Construction workers are especially at risk. Even with proper skill and experience, equipment accidents can still happen when workers are not wearing, or lack sufficient protective gear. A mechanical failure or other defect in the product may also cause serious harm.
Construction injuries typically result from accidents involving:
Equipment failures and other accidents are generally caused by negligence. Negligence refers to careless behavior by a responsible party, causing injury to the victim. Federal and state laws hold negligent parties liable for any injuries caused by their conduct. Negligence may involve a variety of factors, from inadequate training and protective equipment to improper engineering and inspection. OSHA regulations require workers to wear appropriate protective gear such as hard hats, eye masks, and gloves when operating dangerous machinery. On site, contractors and employers have a duty to properly train their workers and provide fall-safe equipment. Injured employees may have a claim for damages through workers’ compensation or by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent parties.
Like employers, manufacturers also have a duty to make a safe product. Construction equipment must pass rigorous inspection and quality checks before being placed on the market. Clear instructions and warning signs must accompany dangerous building tools, advising consumers how to safely use the product. These directions may include advice for proper storage or warn against removing the product’s safety guard. If consumers choose to ignore these instructions, they are partially at fault for their injury. But when equipment fails due to an intrinsic product defect, the manufacturer may be liable. Because manufacturers are in the best position to correct defects and prevent injuries, they are strictly liable for any harm that results. This means that injured consumers can recover against manufacturers without having to prove negligence. Showing harm caused by any intended or reasonably foreseeable use of the product is sufficient. The manufacturer of the defective tool may be liable for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. In some cases, the court may also award punitive damages, attorney’s fees and costs.
If you were injured in a construction accident, the experienced Maine equipment accident and failure lawyers of Peter Thompson & Associates can help. We have successfully handled all types of construction accident and product liability cases, recovering million-dollar verdicts for clients throughout Maine. Our investigators and qualified experts perform a comprehensive evaluation of the injury, identifying all potential sources of liability. Whether your injury was caused by a product defect or negligence at the construction site, we can help you and your loved ones obtain full compensation for your harm. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are committed to aggressively pursuing your case to ensure the best outcome possible at trial or through settlement. Call 800.804.2004 for a free consultation or contact us online.