Can a Connecticut Trench Collapse Trigger a Personal Injury Claim?

 Posted on July 19, 2024 in Personal Injury

A recent trench collapse at a Connecticut work site resulted in the tragic death of an employee. The company in charge of the job had prior violations relating to trench safety. OSHA investigated the incident, determining that at least five employees had been exposed to dangerous conditions.

Construction site accidents and fatalities are not uncommon; the industry has higher injury rates than most other professions and has experienced more total deaths than any other industry since 2008. Construction workers who survive their careers on the job site can also expect mobility problems, respiratory issues, and an increased risk of hearing impairment. Trench collapse can cause severe injuries or even death, yet these accidents are largely preventable.

Injuries sustained from a trench collapse in Connecticut are usually compensated under workers’ compensation. In some cases, a claim against a third party whose negligence contributed to the accident can also be filed. An experienced attorney can help identify negligent third parties and hold them accountable for the accident and resulting injuries.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Trench Collapse Injuries and Death?

Those who work in trenches and tunnels are aware of the inherent dangers involved. Because of this, even the simplest error or failure to precisely follow safety rules could result in devastating consequences. Factors that are most often involved in trench collapse include:

• The trench is not properly protected and supported by shoring, shielding, and cutting trench walls at an angle.
• There are insufficient inspections; trenches must be inspected daily by qualified personnel.
• There is a lack of proper ingress and egress—those working in a tunnel that is four feet deep or deeper must have a way to get in and out quickly and safely via steps, ramps, ladders, or other means.
• Excavated and removed soil is not placed far enough back from the trench to keep it from falling back in.

Cave-ins are the primary cause of trench accidents, along with falls into the trench, drownings from accumulated water in the trench, oxygen depletion or deprivation injuries, inhalation of toxic fumes, and electrocution.

Who Could Be Held Liable for Trench Collapse Injuries?

Construction workers who waive their rights to sue an employer for trench collapse injuries by filing a workers’ compensation claim may still have a valid personal injury claim. Those who could potentially be held liable for injuries caused by trench collapse include:

• General contractors or subcontractors  
• Engineers and architects who designed the project
• Owners of the property
• Companies that sold or manufactured defective equipment

Regarding the Connecticut trench collapse that resulted in a worker’s death, OSHA determined that at least five employees had been exposed to dangerous conditions. OSHA officials further found that the employees were not properly educated on trenching hazards or provided cave-in protection for the 12-foot trench. These violations were determined "willful," resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in penalties.

 Contact a Greenwich, CT Construction Site Accident Lawyer

Pursuing compensation following a trench collapse accident is extremely important. The money you receive from an equitable settlement can help you pay for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Deciding on a construction site accident lawyer is an equally important decision.

You need a highly experienced Metro New York Area construction site accident attorney from Ivey, Barnum & O'Mara, LLC who will work hard to protect your future following your trench collapse accident. Call 203-661-6000 to schedule your free consultation with an attorney who is not only highly skilled but also actively involved in civic and charitable organizations in the area.