Why Construction Work Has One of the Highest Fatality Rates in North Carolina

Construction is essential to North Carolina’s growth, but it is also one of the most dangerous occupations in the state. Construction workers face daily hazards that can turn deadly in seconds. Falls, heavy machinery, electrical systems, and unstable structures all create serious risks.

When a fatal construction accident occurs, families are often left searching for answers. Understanding why construction work carries such a high fatality rate can help explain how these tragedies happen and what legal options may be available.

Construction Sites Contain Multiple High-Risk Hazards

Unlike many workplaces, construction sites are constantly changing. New structures are built, materials are moved, and equipment is repositioned. This fluid environment increases the chance of dangerous conditions developing.

Common hazards on construction sites include:

• Elevated work areas.
• Heavy machinery.
• Power tools.
• Exposed electrical wiring.
• Trenches and excavations.
• Falling materials.

Even when safety rules are in place, hazards can still arise from human error, poor planning, or equipment failures.

Falls Remain the Leading Cause of Fatal Construction Accidents

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, falls from heights are consistently the top cause of construction-related deaths.

Workers may fall from:

• Roofs.
• Scaffolding.
• Ladders.
• Platforms.
• Structural steel.

Falls often occur when guardrails are missing, harnesses are not used, or surfaces are unstable. A single misstep can result in fatal head trauma or catastrophic internal injuries.

Struck-By Accidents Are Common and Deadly

Construction sites involve constant movement of materials and equipment.

Workers may be struck by:

• Falling tools or debris.
• Swinging loads.
• Vehicles or heavy machinery.

These incidents can cause crushing injuries, severe head injuries, or internal organ damage. Struck-by accidents often happen quickly and without warning.

Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents

Caught-in or caught-between accidents occur when a worker is trapped between objects or machinery.

Examples include:

• Being pinned between equipment and a wall.
• Being caught in moving machinery.
• Trench collapses.

These accidents frequently result in fatal crushing injuries or suffocation.

Electrocutions Remain a Serious Threat

Construction workers regularly work near live electrical systems. Contact with energized wires, faulty tools, or overhead power lines can lead to fatal electrocution.

Electrocution risks increase when:

• Wiring is improperly installed.
• Power lines are not clearly marked.
• Lockout procedures are not followed.

Electrical hazards are especially dangerous because they are not always visible.

Heavy Machinery Increases Risk

Cranes, forklifts, bulldozers, and excavators are powerful tools. When equipment malfunctions or is operated improperly, workers may be run over, pinned, or crushed.

Mechanical failures, lack of training, or poor maintenance can all contribute to fatal machinery accidents.

Why Construction Fatality Cases Raise Legal Issues

When a construction worker is killed on the job, North Carolina workers’ compensation law may provide death benefits to surviving family members.

Workers’ compensation death benefits may include:

• Payment of funeral and burial expenses.
• Weekly wage replacement for qualifying dependents.

These benefits are intended to provide financial support after a workplace death.

However, construction fatality cases are not always straightforward.

Employers and insurance companies may dispute:

• Whether the death was work-related.
• Whether safety rules were followed.
• Who qualifies as a dependent.

In some situations, a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer or subcontractor, may also share responsibility.

Why Families Often Face Challenges

Families are often dealing with grief while also facing financial uncertainty. At the same time, insurance companies may request documentation, statements, and forms.

Mistakes or delays can impact benefits. Disputes may arise over dependency status or benefit amounts. This can make an already painful situation even more overwhelming.

How Our Board-Certified Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Can Help

Our Board Certified workers’ compensation attorneys at Ramsay Law Firm represent families after fatal construction accidents across North Carolina.

We can help by:

• Explaining workers’ compensation death benefits.
• Handling communication with insurance carriers.
• Ensuring proper documentation is submitted.
• Challenging denied or delayed claims.
• Investigating whether third-party claims may exist.

Board Certification means our attorneys have demonstrated advanced knowledge and experience in North Carolina workers’ compensation law. We focus heavily on workers’ compensation litigation and understand how these cases are evaluated.

Our goal is to protect families’ rights and pursue the benefits available under the law.

Get Help After a Fatal Construction Accident in North Carolina

If your loved one was killed in a construction accident in Charlotte or anywhere in North Carolina, you do not have to navigate this process alone.

Our Board Certified workers’ compensation attorneys at Ramsay Law Firm are here to answer your questions and explain your options. Call (704) 376-1616 or contact us online for a free consultation.

A Voice For The Injured. Here Every Step of The Way.