Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces, and when accidents happen, the consequences can be life-changing. At MPG Trial Law, we are proud to serve the Atlanta community by standing up for injured workers and their families. Our firm is committed to providing compassionate support and aggressive advocacy for those harmed in construction-related accidents.
We offer comprehensive legal services for all types of construction accident cases, including falls, equipment failures, electrocutions, scaffolding accidents, and injuries caused by unsafe work conditions. Whether your case involves workers’ compensation, third-party liability, or both, our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At MPG Trial Law, we take a proactive legal approach. Thoroughly investigating each case, identifying all responsible parties, and developing strategic solutions tailored to your needs. Our dedication to client satisfaction and proven record of successful outcomes set us apart as trusted advocates for Atlanta’s construction accident victims. Contact us today to speak to an Atlanta construction accident lawyer about your recent accident.
Common Types of Construction Accidents in Atlanta
Construction sites are filled with hazards, and when safety measures fail, workers can suffer serious injuries. Some of the most common types of construction accidents in Atlanta include:
Falls from Heights
Falls are one of the leading causes of construction injuries. Workers on scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops face significant risks if proper fall protection is not in place. These accidents can result in broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or even fatalities. Employers have a duty to provide safety equipment and training, and when they fail, injured construction workers may have a strong legal claim.
Falling Objects
Tools, equipment, and building materials can fall from elevated work areas, striking workers below. Even with helmets, falling object accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries, fractures, and other serious harm. These accidents are often preventable with proper site organization and following construction industry safety protocols.
Electrocutions
Construction workers frequently work near exposed wires, unfinished electrical systems, and power tools. Contact with live electricity can lead to severe burns, nerve damage, or fatal injuries. Electrocution accidents often involve violations of workplace safety standards, making them a critical area for legal action.
Equipment and Machinery Accidents
Heavy machinery such as cranes, forklifts, and bulldozers are essential on construction sites but can be extremely dangerous if misused or poorly maintained. Equipment accidents may cause crushing injuries, amputations, or death. Liability may rest with contractors, employers, or even equipment manufacturers in a construction accident claim.
Trench and Structural Collapses
When trenches or unfinished structures are not properly reinforced, they can collapse without warning, trapping or crushing workers. These accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries and raise serious questions about compliance with safety regulations.
Construction Accident Statistics in Georgia
Construction remains one of the most dangerous industries in Georgia, with workers facing high risks of serious injury and death.
Fatal Work Injuries in Georgia
In 2023, Georgia recorded 192 fatal work injuries, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Construction was one of the leading industries contributing to these deaths.
Construction Industry Risks
Nationwide, construction consistently ranks as one of the most hazardous industries. OSHA states that the “Fatal Four” causes of construction deaths (falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-in/between accidents) account for more than 60% of all construction fatalities. Georgia follows this national trend.
Occupational Fatality Rate in Georgia
From 2020–2022, Georgia reported an estimated 3.5 fatal occupational injuries per 100,000 workers, with construction among the industries with the highest rates.
Nonfatal Injuries
Thousands of nonfatal construction injuries occur in Georgia each year, ranging from falls and equipment accidents to repetitive stress injuries. While exact state-level numbers vary annually, OSHA and the Georgia Department of Public Health identify construction as a top contributor to workplace injury-related hospitalizations.
When Should Someone Use a Workers Compensation Claim Instead of a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
After a construction accident in Georgia, one of the biggest questions is whether to pursue workers’ compensation benefits or file a personal injury claim. The answer depends on the circumstances of the accident and who is legally responsible.
Under Georgia’s workers’ compensation system, most employees injured on the job are entitled to workers’ comp. This provides coverage for medical treatment, a portion of lost wages, and disability benefits, regardless of who caused the accident. If you were hurt while performing your job duties, you may qualify for workers’ compensation through your employer’s insurance. However, workers’ comp does not allow recovery for pain and suffering.
A personal injury claim may be pursued if a third party (not your employer) was responsible for your injuries. For example, if a subcontractor’s negligence, a defective piece of equipment, or a careless property owner caused the accident, you may be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages beyond what workers’ comp provides. This could include full lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical expenses.
In some cases, injured workers may pursue both: workers’ compensation benefits from their employer and a personal injury claim against a negligent third party. As you can see, construction accident injuries and the resulting claims are complicated. An Atlanta construction accident attorney from our law firm will carefully evaluate your situation to ensure you pursue every available avenue for compensation under Georgia law.
Georgia Laws That Pertain to Construction Accident Lawsuits
Construction accident cases in Georgia are governed by a combination of state laws and federal safety regulations. Understanding these laws is critical to determining your rights and the type of claim you may pursue.
Georgia Workers’ Compensation Law (O.C.G.A. § 34-9)
Most construction workers in Georgia are covered under the workers’ compensation system. This law requires employers with three or more employees to carry workers’ comp insurance. It provides benefits for medical care, partial wage replacement, and disability if you are injured on the job. However, workers’ comp generally prevents employees from suing their employer directly for negligence.
Georgia Personal Injury Law (O.C.G.A. § 51-1 and § 51-12)
If a third party, such as a subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer, was responsible for your accident, you may file a personal injury lawsuit. Georgia law allows injured workers to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term disability when negligence can be proven.
Wrongful Death Law (O.C.G.A. § 51-4)
If a construction accident results in death, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Georgia law allows recovery for the “full value of the life of the decedent,” which includes both financial contributions and intangible losses such as companionship.
OSHA Regulations (Federal Law)
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets federal safety standards for construction sites. Employers are required to provide a safe workplace, proper training, and protective equipment. OSHA violations can serve as powerful evidence of negligence in a construction accident lawsuit.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Advice Promptly
After a construction accident, many injured workers and their families feel overwhelmed by medical treatments, lost income, and the uncertainty of what comes next. In these difficult moments, it may be tempting to put off contacting an attorney. However, seeking legal advice promptly is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights and your future.
One of the key reasons to act quickly is Georgia’s statute of limitations. For most personal injury claims, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to pursue compensation altogether. Even with workers’ compensation claims, strict deadlines apply for notifying your employer and filing for benefits. An experienced construction accident lawyer ensures these deadlines are met so your case remains valid.
Prompt legal action also preserves critical evidence. Construction sites change rapidly; equipment is moved, hazards are repaired, and witnesses may become harder to locate. By contacting a lawyer immediately, you increase the chances of capturing photographs, reports, and testimony that can strengthen your claim. Without this evidence, proving negligence or unsafe conditions becomes much more difficult.
Additionally, early legal guidance protects you from the tactics of insurance companies. Insurers often move fast to minimize payouts, sometimes pressuring victims into unfair settlements before they understand the full extent of their injuries. Having a legal team on your side from the start ensures that your rights are defended and that you do not accept less than you deserve.
Finally, seeking advice promptly gives you peace of mind during a stressful time. A dedicated attorney can explain whether you should pursue workers’ compensation benefits, a personal injury claim, or both, and will begin building a strategy tailored to your situation. This proactive approach not only maximizes your potential recovery but also allows you to focus on healing while your lawyer handles the legal complexities.
We encourage anyone hurt in a construction accident to reach out as soon as possible. The sooner you seek legal advice, the stronger your case will be and the closer you’ll be to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Construction Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation
At MPG Trial Law, we know the devastating impact a construction accident can have on workers and their families. From painful physical injuries to overwhelming medical bills and lost wages, the aftermath can feel impossible to manage alone. That’s why our firm is dedicated to fighting for the fair compensation you deserve under Georgia law. We approach every case with a combination of compassion for our clients and aggressive advocacy against those responsible.
Our strategies are designed to maximize your recovery and provide you with the resources needed to move forward. We begin with a thorough investigation of the accident, collecting site reports, safety records, witness statements, and, when necessary, expert testimony. This allows us to build a strong foundation that clearly demonstrates negligence or unsafe practices.
Next, we focus on identifying all potential sources of compensation. In many cases, this includes pursuing workers’ compensation benefits from your employer while also filing a personal injury claim against negligent third parties such as subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. By exploring every legal avenue, we ensure no opportunity for recovery is overlooked.
We also leverage our experience in negotiating with insurance companies. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, but our legal team knows how to counter these tactics with detailed evidence and skilled advocacy. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators who will fight tirelessly in court to secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care.
Most importantly, we keep our clients informed and supported throughout the process. You are never just a case number at MPG Trial Law; you are a person whose future matters. You may be suffering from significant pain and inconvenience. You may be unable to work and unable to take care of your family. You may be unable to pay your bills. Fortunately, you do not need to face these challenges alone.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact MPG Trial Law today for a free case evaluation and let us stand by your side in the fight for justice and fair compensation.