If you have been injured at work as a result of a construction industry accident, there may be circumstances where a personal injury claim can be brought.

Accidents in the construction industry are among the most serious types of workplace incident. Construction sites often involve working at height, heavy machinery and changing environments, which can increase the risk of injury where appropriate safety measures are not in place.

In many cases, construction accidents arise from risks that could have been identified and managed. Where an injury is caused by unsafe conditions or a failure to follow proper procedures, there may be circumstances in which a personal injury claim can be brought.

This page focuses on construction industry accidents in the workplace and the circumstances in which a claim may arise.

These types of workplace accidents can affect employees, contractors and agency workers across a wide range of industries.

How construction site accidents happen

Construction site accidents can occur in a wide range of situations. Common causes include:

• falls from scaffolding, ladders or unfinished structures
• being struck by moving vehicles, machinery or falling materials
• unsafe or poorly maintained working platforms
• inadequate site supervision or risk management
• defective or unsuitable equipment
• poor housekeeping, including debris or obstructed walkways

Construction sites are often busy environments involving multiple contractors and trades. Without clear systems and safety controls, risks can arise quickly.

Employers’ and contractors’ responsibilities

Those responsible for construction sites have a duty to take reasonable steps to ensure that workers are kept safe.

This may include:

• carrying out appropriate risk assessments
• providing suitable training and supervision
• ensuring equipment is safe and properly maintained
• implementing safe systems of work
• managing site conditions to reduce foreseeable risks

Responsibility may not rest with a single party. Depending on the circumstances, liability can involve employers, contractors, subcontractors or site managers.

The impact of construction accidents

Injuries on construction sites are often serious due to the nature of the work involved.

These may include:

• fractures and soft tissue injuries
• head, brain and spinal injuries
• crush injuries
• long term or permanent disability

The impact of a construction accident can extend beyond the initial injury, affecting the ability to work, carry out physical tasks or return to previous roles.

In some cases, recovery may take time or involve ongoing treatment or rehabilitation.

Claiming compensation for a construction accident

If a construction accident was caused by a failure to meet appropriate safety standards, a claim for compensation may be possible depending on the circumstances.

A claim may take into account:

• the nature and severity of the injury
• any loss of earnings or time off work
• the longer term effect on daily life
• treatment or rehabilitation needs

Each case will depend on its own facts, based on the circumstances of the accident and the available evidence.

How our construction accident solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury solicitors at Clarkson Wright & Jakes have experience in dealing with construction industry accident claims and can assist with:

• reviewing how the accident occurred
• identifying who may be responsible
• gathering evidence, including site information and reports
• obtaining medical evidence where required
• explaining available funding options, including no win no fee arrangements and Legal Expenses Insurance, where applicable

We understand that construction site accidents can involve multiple parties and complex circumstances, and we consider each case based on its own facts.

What happens first?

The first step is a confidential, no obligation conversation.

We will listen to what has happened, consider how the accident occurred and whether appropriate safety measures were in place, and explain whether there may be a basis for bringing a claim.

We can also outline what the next steps may involve if you decide to proceed. There is no pressure to move forward, and any discussion can take place at a pace that feels right for you.

Time limits for construction accident claims

Personal injury claims are subject to time limits. In most cases, a claim must be started within three years of the accident or the point at which you became aware of the injury.

Because construction site accidents may involve multiple parties or site investigations, early consideration can help ensure that relevant information is preserved.

Construction industry accident claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim if I was injured on a construction site?

A claim may be possible depending on how the accident happened and whether appropriate safety measures were in place, including whether safe working practices were followed.

What if I am self employed or working as a contractor?

A claim may still be possible depending on the circumstances, including who was responsible for the conditions on site and how the work was being managed.

Who is responsible for a construction site accident?

Responsibility will depend on how the accident occurred and may involve an employer, contractor, site manager or another party.

Do I need to prove fault?

A claim will depend on whether it can be shown that a duty of care was not met and that this contributed to the accident.

Speak to us about a construction accident claim

If you have been injured in a construction industry accident, an initial conversation can help you understand whether there may be grounds for bringing a claim and what steps may be available.

There is no obligation to proceed, and all enquiries are handled in confidence.

Contact our Personal Injury team at Clarkson Wright & Jakes to discuss a construction industry accident claim.

Contact our Personal Injury team at Clarkson Wright & Jakes on 01689 887887 or at cwj@cwj.co.uk to discuss an electric shock or electrocution claim. 

Alternatively, you can complete our Personal Injury Calculator here.