Arizona Trench and Excavation Injury Lawyers

When driving around open trenches and excavation sites, it is important to exercise caution as these areas can be particularly dangerous. There are several risks to consider when working in these areas, including the potential for vehicle damage and personal injury.

First of all, open trenches and excavation sites can be hazardous for drivers due to the risk of the vehicle sinking into the trench or falling into the excavation site. The sides of the trench or excavation site can be unstable and could collapse, which can cause serious injury or death to the driver and passengers. Additionally, the loose dirt and debris around the excavation site can make it difficult to drive and can cause vehicles to skid or lose control.

Another danger when driving around open trenches and excavation sites is the potential for vehicle damage. The materials used in these areas can be rough and abrasive and can cause scratches, dents, and other damage to vehicles. These materials can also get caught in the tires, which can cause a flat tire, damage rims, and even lead to an accident.

Finally, when driving around open trenches and excavation sites, it is important to be aware of any heavy machinery in the area. These machines can be loud and startle drivers, which can cause them to lose control of their vehicles and potentially lead to an accident. It is also important to note that these machines can be unpredictable, suddenly appear out of nowhere, and possibly cause serious property damage or personal injury.

Trench and Excavation Accidents on Arizona Construction Sites

Working in open trenches and excavation sites can be an extremely dangerous job, as the potential for serious injury is high. Trenches and excavations can collapse and workers can be buried alive, crushed, or suffer from numerous other injuries.

The most common type of injury occurring in open trenches and excavation sites is a crush injury. These injuries happen when a trench wall collapses and a worker is caught in between the weight of the dirt and the weight of the equipment. The pressure can cause severe trauma to the body, broken bones, internal organ damage, and even death.

Falls are another common type of injury that occurs at these construction sites. Workers can slip and fall due to wet or slippery surfaces of the trench floor, or because of uneven terrain. Falls can lead to broken bones, head injuries, spinal trauma, and even more serious medical conditions.

In addition to the risks posed by the trenches themselves, there are also the potential hazards of tools and equipment. Workers can be injured by machinery and tools if they are not properly maintained and operated. Injuries can range from minor cuts and scrapes to broken bones, lacerations, amputations, and other serious conditions.

Finally, workers can suffer from illnesses and diseases due to poor air quality in these environments. Workers can be exposed to hazardous dust particles and fumes, or mold, which can lead to respiratory illnesses, such as asthma and silicosis.

No matter what type of injury occurs in open trenches and excavation sites, they can be incredibly dangerous and lead to serious health problems. It’s important that if you were hurt on a job site, you contact the Arizona trench and excavation injury lawyers at Torgenson Law who can evaluate your case and help you get compensation for your injuries.

What Are Common Causes of Trench and Excavation Accidents in Arizona?

Trenches and excavation sites are necessary for the purpose of construction and infrastructure improvements. However, they can be highly dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike. Accidents that occur in these construction zones can often lead to serious injury or even death.

One of the most common causes of accidents in trenches and excavation sites is unstable soil. The surrounding soil of a trench or excavation site is usually freshly dug and can easily become unstable, which can cause the walls to collapse suddenly. This can be especially common during rainy weather when the soil becomes saturated with water and can no longer support the weight of the trench.

Another common cause of accidents in trenches and excavation sites is hazardous gasses and fumes. Construction workers can be exposed to dangerous gasses and fumes while in the trench, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide.

These gasses can cause serious health problems, so it is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent exposure. This includes using appropriate ventilation systems, wearing protective equipment, and monitoring the air quality in the work zone.

Finally, another common cause of accidents in trenches and excavation sites is falling debris. Debris can easily fall into the trench, such as large rocks, concrete, or pieces of equipment, which can cause serious injury or death. To prevent these types of accidents, it is important to ensure the trench is surrounded by a protective barrier and that the workers in the trench are wearing protective helmets.

Common Injuries from Trench and Excavation Accidents in Arizona

Trench and excavation sites are incredibly dangerous worksites that can lead to numerous injuries, some of which can be life-altering or even fatal. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified four main types of common injuries from trench and excavation site accidents.

• Broken bones. The main type of injury is caused by collapse, which can occur when the sides of the trench or excavation become unstable and collapse on the worker. This can cause broken bones, crush injuries, or internal injuries.
• Head trauma. Falling objects, such as tools or equipment, can cause severe injuries. These objects can cause serious head trauma and other bodily injuries. To prevent this type of injury, workers should be required to wear hard hats and be instructed to keep the worksite clear of debris.
• Lung damage. Lung damage can occur from hazardous atmospheres, such as toxic fumes or contaminated air. This can happen when an excavation site is not properly ventilated or when hazardous materials are present. To prevent this type of injury, workers should be provided with respirators and protective clothing, and ventilation systems should be installed in the work area.
• Electric shock. Electrocution can occur when a worker comes into contact with an uninsulated power line or other electrical source. To prevent this type of injury, workers should be provided with insulated tools and equipment, and any power lines should be identified and marked to alert workers of their presence.

Trenches are often dug to bury electrical, fiber optic, or plumbing lines underground. This is dangerous work, and these excavation sites often have accidents that can cause serious and even fatal injuries, so it’s important that employers take the necessary steps to protect their workers.

Working around heavy equipment at excavation sites can present dangers to both workers and the public at large. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trench or excavation site accident, call the Arizona trench and excavation injury lawyers at Torgenson Law to learn about your right to compensation for your injuries or damages.

Our injury attorneys start with a free case evaluation to help you decide which steps to take next, and then we walk you through the entire process. Call 602-726-0747 or reach out to us online today. Our Arizona-based team is dedicated to helping you file a claim and getting you the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.