Industrial workplaces and construction sites pose many threats to workers and visitors. One such risk is the presence of empty elevator shafts at worksites. Falls down these empty/open spaces can prove disastrous. Should any negligence lead to a severe accident, our personal injury attorneys will hold the negligent party accountable and advocate for the injured.
The Dangers of Empty Elevator Shafts at Worksites
Workers and their employers must exercise caution when working on buildings with elevators. These elevator shafts present significant falling hazards. Even in structures that are not particularly tall, a fall into an elevator shaft can lead to substantial injuries and even death.
What makes these kinds of falls especially dangerous is how difficult it may be to extract the victim from the bottom of the elevator shaft and the items or structures that may be located there. Victims of these falls need immediate medical attention, but the nature and location of the injury make urgent care more difficult to administer.
Safety Lines and Harnesses Are Crucial
Safety lines or safety harnesses must be used to prevent serious falls when working near or around an elevator shaft. Simple precautions can mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy.
Following Safety Protocols
In addition to providing safety lines and harnesses, companies must have safety protocols to prevent major accidents. Protocols should include labeling any falling hazards and keeping walkways near steep drops clear of slipping or tripping hazards.
Failure to maintain the safety of employees and visitors can be a sign of negligence, and that’s where our legal experts come into play.
How Our Worker Injury Attorneys Can Help You
Our construction accident attorneys have years of experience with serious injury litigation. We will work closely with clients to ensure that any injuries are accounted for and compensation is sought to cover medical bills, the estimated cost of rehabilitation, and other associated losses. In the case of a fatal fall down an elevator shaft, our legal team will seek compensation to cover funerary costs and the emotional pain and suffering caused by losing a loved one.
Should you be the victim of an elevator shaft fall and are denied workers’ compensation for a legitimate claim, we will take the insurance company to task and make sure you receive what is due to you.
Learn More About Work Injury Litigation
If you or someone that you love has suffered from a serious workplace injury, particularly at a construction or industrial site, we encourage you to contact our Indianapolis work and personal injury attorneys today. Our legal team will fight for you every step of the way to ensure that you receive just compensation following any serious mishaps.