Construction work is essential, but it’s also one of the most dangerous jobs out there. From falls and heavy equipment to toxic exposure, the risks are real and often unpredictable. That’s why it’s so important to understand the most common causes of construction site injuries and know when it’s time to call in legal help. When something goes wrong, having the right legal support can protect your rights, make sure you’re treated fairly, and help you focus on healing and getting back on your feet.

1. Falls from Heights

Falls from heights are one of the most common and dangerous accidents on construction sites. Whether it’s working on scaffolding, climbing ladders, or navigating rooftops with unprotected edges, the risk is high—and the injuries can be life-altering. Broken bones, spinal injuries, and head trauma are all too common. What’s worse is when proper fall protection isn’t in place or isn’t maintained. Harnesses, guardrails, and safety nets aren’t optional, they’re lifesaving. If you were hurt in a fall and safety protocols were ignored, it’s time to talk to a lawyer. You deserve to be protected both on the job and after an injury.

2. Struck-by Object Accidents

Stucky-by object accidents happen fast but can leave lasting damage. Picture a wrench falling from scaffolding or a load slipping off a forklift. These incidents can lead to serious construction site injuries like concussions, broken bones, or worse. Even being hit by heavy equipment or caught in a vehicle’s blind spot can be devastating. These accidents are often preventable with the right safety measures: hard hats, warning signs, proper storage, and clear protocols around machinery. When someone fails to follow safety rules and you get hurt, it’s not just bad luck. It may be negligence.

3. Electrocutions

Electrocutions are one of the most dangerous types of construction site injuries. Workers may accidentally come into contact with live wires, exposed circuits, or unmarked power sources. It often happens when there’s poor communication, rushed timelines, or inadequate training. Sometimes, it’s because safety protocols or OSHA guidelines weren’t followed. Electrocution can lead to severe burns, nerve damage, or even death. And when it happens due to someone else’s oversight or failure to follow regulations, it’s more than just an accident—it’s a case worth investigating.

4. Caught-in or Between Accidents

Caught-in or between accidents are some of the most traumatic construction site injuries. These occur when a worker is trapped between heavy equipment, pulled into machinery, or buried in a trench collapse. Unguarded machines, narrow working spaces, and unstable excavation sites are often to blame. The injuries from these accidents are usually severe, including crushed limbs, broken bones, or even fatalities. These are not always just “freak accidents.” They’re often preventable with the right safety measures. 

5. Equipment Malfunctions

Equipment malfunctions can lead to serious, even life-altering construction site injuries. Whether it’s a faulty power tool, a crane with worn cables, or a vehicle with brake failure, the consequences can be devastating. These accidents aren’t always the worker’s fault—sometimes the issue is poor maintenance, and other times the equipment was defective from the start. In these cases, a product liability claim against the manufacturer or maintenance company may be warranted. If you’ve been injured due to malfunctioning equipment, an injury attorney can help investigate the cause and hold the responsible parties accountable so you can focus on recovery.

6. Exposure to Hazardous Substances

Working on a construction site often means being around hazardous substances like chemicals, asbestos, or toxic fumes. Without the right protective gear or clear warnings, exposure can lead to serious long-term health issues like respiratory problems, skin conditions, or even cancer. These aren’t just workplace hazards; they can affect your quality of life for years to come. When employers fail to provide proper safety measures or ignore OSHA standards, they put workers at risk. In these cases, toxic tort claims may be an option. 

When to Call a Lawyer

Not every construction injury requires a lawyer, but there are clear signs that you should make that call. If your injuries are severe, life-changing, or you’re facing a long recovery, legal help can ensure you’re compensated fairly. If your workers’ comp claim gets denied or delayed, or if a third party (like a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer) played a role, an attorney can step in. Safety violations at the job site? That’s another red flag. And if you’re feeling pressured to settle quickly, especially before you understand the full impact of your injury, don’t do it alone. Talk to a lawyer first.

Choose LeBaron & Jensen for Reliable Lawyers

If you’ve been injured on a construction site, your health should always come first. Seek medical attention immediately, and once you’re stable, it’s time to consider your legal options. A construction accident can lead to long-term challenges, and you deserve to have your rights protected. At LeBaron & Jensen, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process, explore your options, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to talk with an experienced injury attorney and get the support you need during this difficult time.

School zones should be safe havens for children, but all too often, they become the scene of heartbreaking tragedies. Despite flashing lights and lowered speed limits, distracted or reckless drivers still pose a serious threat to young pedestrians. When a child is killed in a school zone accident, the devastation ripples through families and communities. Holding drivers accountable isn’t just about justice—it’s also about preventing future loss. In this blog, we’ll explore how wrongful death cases can help bring awareness, accountability, and change where it’s needed most.

Understanding School Zone Laws

School zones are designed to keep kids safe, but that only works if drivers follow the rules. Speed limits in these areas are usually reduced during school hours to give drivers more time to react. It’s also the law to stop for school buses with flashing lights and to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore these rules by speeding, texting, or failing to stop. These violations can lead to tragic consequences. Understanding and obeying school zone laws is about avoiding tickets, but it’s also about protecting young lives and making sure everyone gets home safely.

What Constitutes a Wrongful Death in a School Zone

A wrongful death in a school zone happens when a child or pedestrian is killed because of someone else’s careless or reckless actions. Legally, it means that the death could have been prevented if the driver had acted responsibly. Common examples include speeding through a school zone, driving while distracted (like texting), or failing to yield at a crosswalk. These actions show negligence—meaning the driver didn’t take reasonable care to avoid harm. When that negligence leads to a fatal accident, it may be considered a wrongful death, and the responsible driver can be held accountable through legal action.

Who Can Be Held Liable

When a wrongful death occurs in a school zone, the at-fault driver is typically the first person held legally responsible. If they were speeding, distracted, or failed to follow school zone laws, they can be sued for negligence. But in some cases, others may also share the blame. For example, if the driver was on the job, their employer could be held liable. If a vehicle malfunction contributed to the accident, the manufacturer might be at fault. Rarely, local governments or municipalities can be held accountable—especially if poor signage, lack of crosswalks, or faulty traffic signals played a role.

Legal Steps for Families Seeking Justice

For families who have lost a loved one due to a school zone pedestrian accident, the emotional toll is often matched by overwhelming questions about what to do next. Filing a wrongful death claim is a legal step that allows families to seek accountability and compensation for the devastating loss. The process typically involves proving that the driver (or another responsible party) acted negligently. Claims must be filed within a specific time frame, often within two years of the incident, making it essential to act quickly.

Families may pursue several types of damages, including compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of future income, and the emotional pain and suffering caused by the sudden loss. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded as a way to punish reckless behavior and help prevent similar tragedies.

Navigating this legal process alone can be daunting, especially while grieving. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a knowledgeable wrongful death or personal injury attorney. They can handle the paperwork, investigate the accident, and advocate for the family’s rights, helping them focus on healing while ensuring justice is served.

The Role of Evidence in Proving Fault

Proving fault in a school zone pedestrian accident hinges on strong, clear evidence. From the moment the incident occurs, every detail matters. Eyewitness statements can provide powerful firsthand accounts of what happened, while surveillance footage can visually capture the event in real time. Police reports also play a major role, offering an official record that includes initial findings, citations issued, and statements from both the driver and witnesses.

Beyond the basics, more technical evidence can help paint a complete picture. Cell phone records may show if a driver was texting or making a call at the time of the crash. Skid marks, road conditions, and data from the vehicle’s black box can reveal speed, braking patterns, or lack thereof to further support claims of negligence. 

Legal teams use this evidence to build a strong case. They may work with accident reconstruction experts, subpoena records, and gather testimony to prove the driver was at fault. This meticulous process not only helps strengthen a wrongful death claim, but also ensures that those responsible are held accountable. It’s all about uncovering the truth and fighting for justice on behalf of the family. 

Choose LeBaron & Jensen for Legal Help

LeBaron & Jensen is here to support families facing the unimaginable loss of a loved one due to wrongful death. With compassion and experience, our legal team helps you understand your rights, navigate complex legal processes, and fight for the justice your family deserves. We handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on healing. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, we are committed to securing the compensation and accountability you need to move forward. Let us stand by your side during this difficult time—contact us today for a free consultation.

Flying is generally safe, but sometimes turbulence can turn a routine flight into an unexpected and uncomfortable experience. Whether it’s a sudden jolt or an intense shake, turbulence injuries can leave you shaken, literally and figuratively. If you’ve been injured while flying and are unsure what your next steps should be, it’s important to understand your options. In this blog, we’ll break down what you need to know about turbulence-related injuries, your rights, and how a personal injury attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Common Turbulence Injuries

Turbulence can strike unexpectedly, turning a routine flight into a rough ride. While most passengers feel nothing more than a few bumps, severe turbulence can cause serious injuries. Sudden jolts can lead to head and neck injuries, especially if you’re not wearing a seatbelt. Passengers walking around may lose their balance, which can result in broken bones or sprains from hard falls. Unrestrained travelers risk concussions from hitting overhead bins or walls. Even those in their seats can suffer whiplash or soft tissue injuries from being thrown forward. Staying buckled up and aware can help minimize these risks.

Who is Most at Risk?

Turbulence doesn’t discriminate, but some passengers are more at risk than others. Those not wearing their seatbelts are the most vulnerable. When turbulence hits, even a small jolt can send unrestrained passengers flying, leading to serious injuries. Flight attendants are also at higher risk as they move through the cabin during the flight. Without the safety of a seat, they can easily get turbulence injuries from the sudden movements. Passengers standing or in the restroom are especially susceptible, too—turbulence can throw them off balance, causing falls or collisions with hard surfaces. 

Can Airlines Be Held Liable?

Airlines do have a responsibility to keep passengers safe, but when it comes to turbulence, they aren’t always held accountable. However, if an airline fails to warn passengers about potential turbulence or doesn’t properly remind them to buckle up, they could be considered liable for any injuries providing proper instructions and responding appropriately to turbulent conditions. Pilots and crew also play a big role in minimizing turbulence injuries and risks. They’re trained to manage situations, communicate warnings, and help keep everyone safe during rough flights. Ultimately, staying informed and following safety guidelines is the best way to protect yourself.

What to Do If You’re Injured

If you’re injured during turbulence, the first thing you need to do is report it to the flight crew immediately. They’re trained to handle medical situations and can provide assistance or call for help if needed. Once you land, seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t feel the full effects of the injury immediately. Some injuries, like concussions or whiplash, may not show symptoms right away. 

Be sure to document everything: take photos of your injury, gather witness statements, and write down the flight details. Lastly, it’s a good idea to consult a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and explore your legal options for compensation. Taking these steps can help ensure your health and protect your rights if you decide to take legal action.

Hiring a personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process if you’ve been during turbulence. Airlines have legal responsibilities to keep passengers safe, and an attorney can determine if negligence played a role in your injury. They can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With legal guidance, you’ll have a better chance of getting the financial support you need to recover.

Preventing Injuries During Turbulence

The best way to prevent injuries during turbulence is simple: always keep your seatbelt fastened, even if the seatbelt sign is off. Turbulence can strike unexpectedly, and being secured in your seat is the best way to avoid injury. Another tip is to store loose items properly. Items like bags, water bottles, or electronics can become dangerous projectiles when the plane shakes, so make sure that everything is tucked away safely. Lastly, always listen to the flight crew’s instructions and heed turbulence warnings. They’re there to keep you safe, and following their guidance will help you stay prepared and avoid accidents. Flying safe starts with these easy, proactive steps.

Find Legal Assistance at LeBaron & Jensen

At LeBaron & Jensen, we specialize in personal injury cases, including aviation accidents, auto accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and more. With years of experience and a dedicated legal team, we fight to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the legal process with confidence.