Protecting Your Rights After A Trench Collapse In Texas
At Mendez Isaac Joudi, PLLC, our lawyers are dedicated to advocating for those affected by trench collapses in El Paso, Texas, and beyond. Construction sites, especially those with large projects and new buildings, often require trenches and excavations for various purposes, such as laying pipes and cables.
However, the failure to construct these trenches properly can lead to injuries and, tragically, unnecessary fatalities. Trench collapses, in particular, pose a significant risk, as soil can weigh up to 3,000 lbs. per cubic yard. Victims may suffer crushing injuries or even suffocation due to equipment failures or improper construction.
Experienced Legal Guidance For Trench Collapse
With over 50 years of combined experience, the workplace accident attorneys at MIJ understand the complexities of trench collapse cases. We are here to ensure that your rights are protected after you have been hurt at work.
The Importance Of Trench Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has long recognized the importance of preventing trench collapse accidents. It has made trench safety one of its leading initiatives for decades. Yet, despite these efforts, trench collapses continue to be a leading cause of death at construction sites.
Your Rights Matter
If you or a loved one has been affected by a trench collapse, you have rights, and you should not have to bear the burden of someone else’s negligence. We are here to help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you need to recover.
Common Causes Of Trench Collapses
At Mendez Isaac Joudi, PLLC, we’ve seen various factors contribute to trench collapses. Understanding these causes is crucial for prevention and determining liability:
- Inadequate shoring: Failure to properly support trench walls can lead to sudden collapses, especially in deeper excavations.
- Lack of proper sloping: When trench walls aren’t angled correctly, they’re more prone to cave-ins, particularly in unstable soil conditions.
- Excessive vibration: Nearby construction equipment or traffic can cause soil vibrations, destabilizing trench walls.
- Water accumulation: Poor drainage or unexpected rainfall can weaken soil structure, increasing collapse risk.
- Improper soil classification: Misidentifying soil type can result in inadequate safety measures for the specific ground conditions.
- Overloading trench edges: Placing heavy equipment or excavated materials too close to the trench edge can cause wall failure.
Our attorneys are well-versed in identifying these causes and can help you determine if negligence played a role in your trench collapse accident.
Common Injuries In Trench Collapse Accidents
Our attorneys have represented numerous trench collapse victims. These accidents often result in severe, life-altering injuries:
- Crush injuries: The immense weight of collapsing soil can cause devastating damage to limbs, organs and skeletal structures.
- Suffocation: Victims trapped under soil may suffer oxygen deprivation, leading to brain damage or death if not rescued quickly.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Falling debris or the force of collapsing soil can cause concussions or more severe brain trauma.
- Spinal cord injuries: The impact of a collapse can result in vertebral fractures or spinal cord damage, potentially causing paralysis.
- Internal injuries: The pressure from soil and debris can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, which may not be immediately apparent.
- Fractures and dislocations: The force of collapsing earth often leads to broken bones and joint dislocations throughout the body.
- Psychological trauma: Survivors may experience PTSD, anxiety or depression due to the traumatic nature of trench collapses.
Are you suffering from any of these injuries due to a trench collapse? Our experienced lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. We’re committed to holding negligent parties accountable and helping you on your path to recovery.
Contact Our Trench Collapse Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by a trench collapse in El Paso, West Texas or anywhere in New Mexico, the team at MIJ is here to help. We offer free consultations to discuss your personal injury case and answer your questions.
Contact us today at 915-289-0020 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation. Let us be your advocates as we fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you need to move forward after a trench collapse.