New Jersey Fatal Construction Accidents

The loss of a loved one is always a traumatic event, but it can be especially difficult to accept when it involves a workplace accident. The construction industry is known for being more dangerous than most, but a fatal accident is still a shocking event that will impact the lives of surviving family members forever.

If your loved one passed away due to a New Jersey fatal construction accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. This award cannot erase what happened, but it could cover the unexpected financial cost that comes with a family member’s death. Let a dedicated construction injury attorney help you pursue a measure of justice after a tragedy.

Construction Accidents That Could Be Fatal

Construction work is known for being dangerous, and fatal accidents are unfortunately common. When negligence leads to these incidents, a wrongful death action is possible. This type of lawsuit holds the negligent party accountable and provides financial compensation to the surviving family members. Some of the common types of fatal New Jersey construction accidents that could lead to wrongful death claims include the following:

Falls

Falls are by far the most common type of accidental injury on a construction site. They can happen on level ground due to a tripping hazard, or they can occur from a great height due to issues like faulty scaffolding. These injuries can prove to be life-threatening, especially when a person’s head or neck absorbs most of the impact.

Struck-By Accidents

A struck-by accident involves when a falling, moving, or swinging object strikes a construction worker. This could involve a falling cinder block or an uncontrolled wrecking ball.

Explosions and Fire

Construction sites are often home to volatile chemicals, including gasoline. They are also frequently full of flammable items like insulation. When fires break out, the injuries can be catastrophic. These incidents can occur due to careless welding, smoking on site, faulty wiring, or the improper use of portable heating sources.

Machinery Accidents

Injuries involving heavy machinery occur frequently in this industry. Even well-trained workers can make a single mistake that results in devastating accidents. The risk of an injury is made worse when there is improper training or a lack of safety controls.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Action?

The right to file a wrongful death lawsuit is different from one state to another. Many jurisdictions allow the surviving relatives of the deceased party to file legal action on their own, but that is not the case in New Jersey. Instead, only the personal representative of the estate can bring a wrongful death action.

Often, the decedent’s last will and testament will name an individual to act as their personal representative at the time of their passing. If one is not named, the court has the power to select someone to act as an administrator who can file the lawsuit. Often, judges appoint family members to this role.

Regardless of who files the lawsuit, any proceeds from the claim will go to the deceased party’s heirs. A fatal construction accident lawyer in New Jersey can assist with this process.

Talk to a New Jersey Fatal Construction Accident Attorney Today

If your family member lost their life in a New Jersey fatal construction accident, a civil suit might be your best shot at justice. A wrongful death action could provide your family with the resources needed to cover the unexpected costs that followed your loved one’s passing. It might also offer the best chance to hold the negligent party accountable. Reach out today to learn more during a private consultation.