Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in Florida. With constant activity, heavy machinery, elevated work areas, and tight deadlines, even a small safety failure can result in life-changing injuries. Every year, construction workers across the state suffer serious harm because safety rules were ignored, equipment was defective, or supervisors failed to protect their crews.
While construction work carries inherent risks, many accidents are entirely preventable. When injuries occur due to unsafe work conditions or negligence, Florida law allows injured workers and their families to pursue compensation beyond basic workers’ compensation benefits.
At Moore Payne Law, Attorneys Geoff Moore and Spencer Payne represent construction workers and families affected by serious job site injuries throughout Florida. Their mission is to hold negligent parties accountable and help victims secure the financial support they need to recover and move forward.
Why Construction Sites Are So Dangerous
Construction sites combine multiple high-risk elements in a fast-paced environment. Common factors that increase the likelihood of serious accidents include:
- Working at significant heights
- Operating heavy machinery and power tools
- Exposure to electrical systems and wiring
- Inadequate safety training
- Poor communication between contractors
- Rushed schedules and cost-cutting measures
When safety protocols are not strictly enforced, workers are often the ones who pay the price.
Common Causes of Construction Site Injuries in Florida
Construction accidents frequently stem from negligence rather than unavoidable danger. Common causes include:
- Falls from heights, such as scaffolding, ladders, or roofs
- Falling objects, including tools, debris, or building materials
- Electrocution from exposed wires or improper grounding
- Machinery accidents, involving cranes, forklifts, or power tools
- Caught-in or caught-between accidents, where workers are crushed or pinned
- Trench collapses due to improper excavation support
- Slip and fall hazards caused by debris, uneven surfaces, or wet areas
These hazards are well-known within the construction industry, and employers and contractors are required to take reasonable steps to prevent them.
Catastrophic Injuries Common on Construction Sites
Construction site accidents often result in severe or catastrophic injuries that permanently change a worker’s life. These may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Amputations or crush injuries
- Severe burns or electrical injuries
- Multiple fractures or internal organ damage
- Permanent disfigurement or scarring
In the most tragic cases, construction accidents result in fatalities, leaving families facing emotional devastation and financial uncertainty.
Workers’ Compensation Is Not Always Enough
Florida’s workers’ compensation system provides limited benefits to injured employees, regardless of fault. While workers’ compensation may cover some medical expenses and partial wage replacement, it does not provide compensation for:
Additionally, workers’ compensation claims are often delayed or denied, leaving injured workers struggling to cover basic expenses.
In many construction accident cases, additional legal claims may be available against third parties whose negligence contributed to the injury.
When Third-Party Liability Applies
Construction sites typically involve multiple companies working simultaneously. This creates opportunities for third-party liability when someone other than the direct employer causes an injury.
Potentially liable third parties may include:
- General contractors or subcontractors
- Property owners or developers
- Equipment or tool manufacturers
- Maintenance or inspection companies
- Engineers or safety consultants
For example, if defective equipment causes an injury, the manufacturer may be held liable under product liability law. If a subcontractor creates a hazard that injures another worker, that company may also be responsible.
Moore Payne Law carefully investigates each case to identify all responsible parties, not just the employer.
OSHA Violations and Construction Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets safety standards for construction sites. Common OSHA violations include:
- Failure to provide fall protection
- Lack of proper training
- Inadequate protective equipment
- Unsafe scaffolding or ladders
- Poor hazard communication
While OSHA violations do not automatically guarantee compensation, they can serve as powerful evidence of negligence in a construction injury lawsuit.
Proving Negligence in a Construction Injury Case
To succeed in a third-party construction injury claim, it must generally be shown that:
- The defendant owed a duty of care to the worker
- That duty was breached through negligence or unsafe practices
- The breach caused the injury
- The worker suffered damages
Moore Payne Law builds strong cases by gathering:
- Accident reports and site documentation
- OSHA investigation findings
- Witness statements
- Safety manuals and training records
- Expert testimony from construction safety professionals
- Medical evidence detailing the severity of injuries
Early investigation is critical, as job sites change quickly and evidence can disappear.
Compensation Available to Injured Construction Workers
Depending on the circumstances, injured workers may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical treatment and future care
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Full lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
In fatal construction accidents, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims for loss of financial support and companionship.
Moore Payne Law works to ensure compensation reflects the true long-term impact of the injury, not just immediate costs.
How Moore Payne Law Helps Injured Construction Workers
Construction injury cases are complex and often involve powerful corporations and insurers. Attorneys Geoff Moore and Spencer Payne bring experience, preparation, and determination to every case.
Their approach includes:
- Thorough investigation of the job site and accident
- Collaboration with safety and medical experts
- Aggressive negotiation with insurers and defendants
- Trial-ready preparation to maximize leverage
Clients receive personalized attention, clear communication, and strong advocacy from start to finish.
What to Do After a Construction Site Injury in Florida
If you are injured on a construction site:
- 1.
- Seek immediate medical attention
- 2.
- Report the injury to your employer
- 3.
- Document the scene and your injuries if possible
- 4.
- Avoid signing statements without legal advice
- 5.
- Contact Moore Payne Law as soon as possible
Taking action early helps protect your rights and strengthens your case.
Standing Up for Injured Construction Workers Across Florida
Construction workers build Florida’s cities, roads, and communities. When unsafe work conditions cause serious injuries, those responsible must be held accountable.
Moore Payne Law is committed to protecting construction workers and their families across Florida. Attorneys Geoff Moore and Spencer Payne fight for justice, accountability, and the compensation workers need to rebuild their lives.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured on a Florida construction site, contact Moore Payne Law today for a free and confidential consultation.