At Mendez Isaac Joudi, PLLC, our construction accident lawyers are dedicated to advocating for those affected by trench collapses in El Paso, throughout Texas, and beyond. Large projects routinely require trenches and excavations for pipes and cables. Built properly, they are routine. Built carelessly, they kill.
Common causes of trench collapses
We have seen many factors contribute to trench collapses. Understanding them is crucial both for prevention and for determining liability:
- Inadequate shoring: failing to properly support trench walls invites sudden collapse, especially in deeper excavations.
- Lack of proper sloping: walls that are not angled correctly are far more prone to cave-ins, particularly in unstable soil.
- Excessive vibration: nearby construction equipment or traffic can destabilize trench walls.
- Water accumulation: poor drainage or unexpected rainfall weakens soil structure and raises collapse risk.
- Improper soil classification: misidentifying soil type leads to safety measures that do not match the actual ground conditions.
- Overloading trench edges: heavy equipment or excavated material placed too close to the edge can cause wall failure.
Our attorneys are well-versed in identifying these causes and can help you determine whether negligence played a role in your accident.
Common injuries in trench collapse accidents
We have represented many trench collapse victims, and these accidents tend to produce severe, life-altering harm:
- Crush injuries: the immense weight of collapsing soil devastates limbs, organs, and bone.
- Suffocation: workers trapped under soil can suffer oxygen deprivation, leading to brain damage or death if not rescued quickly.
- Traumatic brain injuries: falling debris or the force of the collapse can cause concussions or worse.
- Spinal cord injuries: vertebral fractures and spinal cord damage, with the potential for paralysis.
- Internal injuries: internal bleeding or organ damage that may not be immediately apparent.
- Fractures and dislocations: broken bones and dislocated joints throughout the body.
- Psychological trauma: survivors frequently experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression after a collapse.
OSHA has been warning about this for decades
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has long recognized the danger of trench collapses and has made trench safety one of its leading initiatives for decades. Yet trench collapses remain a leading cause of death at construction sites. The rules exist. The deaths continue because people do not follow them, and that is exactly what a negligence case is built on.
Your rights matter
If you or a loved one has been affected by a trench collapse in El Paso, West Texas, or anywhere in New Mexico, you should not have to carry the burden of someone else's negligence. Call 915-444-1085 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation. We will help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you need to recover.