At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we understand the lasting impact a caught-in/between accident can have on your life and your family. Caught-in/between accidents are one of the leading causes of severe injuries on construction sites. Defined by OSHA as incidents where a worker is caught, crushed, or squeezed between heavy machinery, structures, or other objects, these accidents can result in devastating injuries or even death. These devastating incidents—often resulting in crushing injuries, amputations, or worse—are preventable when safety standards are followed. 

If you’ve suffered due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve a team that will stand by your side and fight for justice. With our extensive experience in construction accident cases, we’re here to secure the compensation you need and deserve. Contact us today to get started with an experienced construction accident attorney.  

Common Causes

Caught-in/between accidents typically occur when proper safety protocols are not followed. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Unsecured machinery–Large equipment like cranes, bulldozers, and forklifts must be secured when not in use. Failure to do so can lead to a movement that traps or crushes nearby workers.
  • Improper use of heavy machinery–Heavy machinery must be operated precisely, especially in confined spaces. Operators who are not properly trained or equipment that malfunctions increase the risk.
  • Trench collapse–Trench work poses unique hazards; a collapse can quickly trap workers beneath soil or debris, leading to severe injury or asphyxiation.
  • Falling objects: If materials or tools are not properly secured, they can fall and trap workers between surfaces.
  • Inadequate site supervision–Safety standards may not be enforced without proper supervision, increasing the risk of accidents.

These causes stem from preventable conditions that supervisors and construction site managers must address.

Injuries Caused By Caught-in/Between Accidents

Caught-in/between accidents often result in serious injuries that can have long-term impacts. Injuries include:

  • Crush injuries–Crushing from heavy machinery or structural materials can lead to broken bones, damaged muscles, and severe tissue damage.
  • Amputations–In some cases, the pressure from machinery may cause partial or complete loss of limbs.
  • Head and brain injuries–Impact with hard surfaces or being trapped can result in traumatic brain injuries, with symptoms ranging from concussions to permanent cognitive impairments.
  • Spinal cord injuries–Damage to the spine can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a victim’s quality of life.
  • Internal bleeding–Compression can cause extensive internal bleeding, which may not be immediately noticeable but can be life-threatening.
  • Death

These injuries can result in prolonged rehabilitation, loss of income, and an inability to return to work. In severe cases, they may also cause lasting disability.

Legal Rights for Injured Workers 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a caught-in/between accident on a construction site, you may be entitled to compensation. Legal options include:

Workers’ Compensation

In California, injured workers are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, covering medical expenses and partial lost wages. However, these benefits are often limited and may not address all losses, such as pain and suffering.

Third-Party Claims

Sometimes, a third party (such as an equipment manufacturer or subcontractor) may be liable if their negligence contributed to the accident. Filing a personal injury claim against a third party allows injured workers to pursue additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation.

Wrongful Death Claims

For families who have lost a loved one in a fatal caught-in/between accident, filing a wrongful death claim can provide financial relief and hold responsible parties accountable.

Why Choose Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook?

Having experienced legal support is essential in the aftermath of a construction site accident. That’s where Casper, Meadows, Schwartz, and Cook can help. With years of experience handling construction accident cases, our team understands the complexities of caught in/between incidents and the challenges injured workers face.

We aggressively pursue maximum compensation for our clients, holding construction companies and third parties accountable for negligence. From handling the details of workers’ compensation claims to exploring third-party liability, we offer comprehensive guidance and support. Trust us to guide you through the process and protect your rights at every step. 

Pursuing Justice After a Caught-in/Between Accident 

Caught-in/between accidents can be traumatic and life-altering. At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we understand the complexities of construction accident cases and provide compassionate, results-driven representation to injured workers. If you’ve been injured in a caught-in/between accident, contact us today so we can start working on your claim.