Each year approximately 100 workers die and more than 1,000 workers are injured in trench collapses. Most of these accidents are caused by failure to comply with safety regulations that govern trenching and excavation work. Construction, utility and other laborers who work in or around trenches are at risk of cave-ins, suffocation, exposure to toxic fumes, falls, drowning, electrocution, explosions and heavy equipment accidents. More than two-thirds of all deaths resulting from excavation accidents are caused by cave-ins; this is not surprising considering that one cubic yard of soil usually weighs in at more than 2,000 pounds.

Trench collapses resulting in injuries or death can raise a host of complicated legal issues. Only an experienced workplace accident lawyer can evaluate the factors that may affect an injured worker’s ability to recover damages. Some of these factors include workers’ compensation law; insurance coverage; the parties responsible for the worker’s injuries, such as landowners, contractors, sub-contractors, equipment suppliers, design professionals or manufacturers; and compliance or non-compliance with state and federal occupational and worksite safety regulations.

The dedicated trial lawyers of Feldman Shepherd understand that on-the-job accidents can result in injuries that are severe and prolonged, causing physical, emotional and financial hardship to injured workers and their loved ones. We are committed to helping workers and their families throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey secure all of the compensation to which they may be entitled. This may include damages for pain and suffering, financial losses, emotional distress, medical expenses and in some cases, punitive damages for another party’s wrongdoing.

At Feldman Shepherd, we strive to obtain the best possible recovery as expeditiously as possible. We are here to serve you with hard work, attention to detail and a caring approach tailored to your individual needs. If we may be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us today.