Preventable construction site accidents involving trenches and excavations are all-too-common and some of the most dangerous types of construction accidents that can occur. If you’ve been injured in a Texas trench or excavation accident, contact Houston construction accident attorney Steve Lee – 1-800-232-3711.

Texas Trench and Excavation Accidents

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Every construction site company and foreman is required by law to harbor a safe environment for the workers present on that site. When safety protocol is neglected, people get hurt. Unfortunately, preventable construction site accidents involving trenches and excavations are all-too-common and some of the most dangerous types of construction accidents that can occur.

After a serious construction site accident like a Texas trench or excavation accident, Workers' Compensation may not be able to provide you with enough money to cover long-term medical costs, lost wages, and the quality of life that is affected by serious or permanent construction site injuries. During this time it is vital that you seek the advice of an experienced Houston construction accident attorney who can examine your case and explain your legal options for seeking compensation.

Texas
Trench and Excavation Accidents

Natural conditions that were not properly recognized, faulty trench construction, and even malfunctioning or reckless use of construction equipment (such as excavators and backhoes) can all contribute to trench accidents. It is well known that trenches are dangerous work areas and require extra safety precautions to avoid preventable trench and excavation accidents.

Common hazards that contribute to the danger of trench accidents include:

  • Falls;
  • Falling debris;
  • Cave-ins;
  • Toxic fumes;
  • Drowning;
  • Wall collapse; and
  • Electrocution as a result of buried utility lines.


While mild trench accidents may only result in bruises and broken bones that Workers' Compensation can generally handle, life-altering or permanent injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, amputation, or even fatal injuries can and do occur.

Required Safety Precautions to Prevent Trench Accidents

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) has required specific safety protocol that must be followed by all construction sites that utilize trenches or perform excavations. Besides providing necessary personal safety equipment, required trench safety measures set forth by OSHA include:

  • Special walking surfaces around the edge of trenches;
  • Soil type evaluation at the trench site;
  • Trench boxes or other retaining structures;
  • Locating all utility lines;
  • Providing adequate ventilation;
  • Ensuring safe access to and from the trench bottom;
  • Edge barriers trench sides; and
  • Monitoring for hazardous weather conditions.


While it is true that accepting Workers' Compensation prevents you from being able to sue your employer after a Texas trench accident, there are often third-parties such as vendors and contractors who are responsible for trench and excavation safety. If any of those parties were responsible for your Texas trench accident, they may be liable for paying for your medical bills and other accident related expenses.

Contacting a Houston Construction Accident Attorney

If you are facing serious or permanent injuries after a Texas construction accident, you need the legal expertise of an experienced Houston construction accident attorney to help you fight for fair compensation. Contact the law offices of Steven Lee, P.C. today at 713-921-4171 or 1-800-232-3711. Help is available 24 hours a day and the initial consultation is always FREE. We are also able to provide transportation options as well as home and hospital visits.



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Steven M. Lee, PC
5823 Gulf Freeway
Suite 300
Houston, TX 77023
Phone: 713-921-4171
Toll Free: 800-232-3711

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