We all know that construction work can be dangerous. However, construction sites can also be dangerous – and sometimes deadly — places for people just going about their lives.
Those in charge of a construction site are responsible for taking all reasonable precautions to keep pedestrians, cyclists and observers at a safe distance. What exactly a “safe distance” is, however, may not be that easily calculable. Things go wrong around construction sites all the time. Who is responsible if someone not involved in the project suffers an injury? It depends.
If someone ignores the warning signs, tape or even safety fences and barricades and gets into an area that’s clearly restricted, they can have a hard time holding anyone else responsible for their injuries. But what if you were staying outside the restricted area and still suffer an injury? Equipment and debris can be dangerous if they fall from a high level and strike someone passing by. Pieces of fencing have been known to fly off and cause fatal injuries.
Determining who is responsible can be tricky
There are typically multiple parties involved in a construction project. When something goes wrong, it’s common for them to pass the buck to someone else rather than step up and take responsibility. A general contractor and subcontractor may blame one another for example. They may both ultimately blame the owner of the property.
That’s why you need to seek experienced legal guidance to ensure that a proper investigation is done and that the appropriate party or parties can be held liable. This is crucial to helping ensure you get the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.