Workplace Accident Lawyers Serving Atlanta
Our attorneys hold negligent parties accountable
Many people work in an environment where machines, vehicles and equipment pose a potential danger to them and the people around them. Workplace accidents can result in a personal injury that requires medical treatment and prevents a worker from being able to return to the job.
At Fried Goldberg LLC, our personal injury attorneys help the injured by fighting to hold negligent third parties accountable. We understand the impact that a serious injury can have on workers and their families. We build strong cases to recover the financial compensation they need and deserve.
Types of workplace accidents
Workplace accidents can occur in any industry. Common examples include:
- Slips, trips, and falls – These accidents often result from slippery surfaces, uneven flooring, or cluttered walkways.
- Machinery accidents – Improper training, lack of safeguards, or equipment malfunction can lead to severe injuries.
- Transportation accidents – Vehicle-related incidents, such as car accidents or forklift crashes, can occur in warehouses, construction sites, or any workplace involving transportation.
- Falls from heights – Construction sites and industrial settings often involve working at elevated heights. When safety protocols aren’t followed, workers can fall from scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops.
- Chemical or toxic exposure – Workers in industries dealing with hazardous substances may face the risk of chemical spills, leaks, or exposure to toxic fumes.
- Electrical exposure – Failure to follow safety measures can result in direct exposure to live electricity.
- Explosions or fires – These accidents can occur with boilers or in refineries.
Types of injuries in workplace accidents
Workers can suffer a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting consequences. Common injuries seen in workplace accidents include:
- Head and brain injuries – Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur due to falls, falling objects, or workplace collisions, potentially leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, or even permanent disability.
- Back and spinal cord injuries – Accidents involving heavy lifting, slips, or falls can result in back injuries, herniated discs, or spinal cord damage, which can cause chronic pain, paralysis, or limited mobility.
- Burns and electrical injuries – Workplace accidents involving fires, explosions, or electrocution can cause severe burns, nerve damage, or disfigurement.
- Respiratory and occupational illnesses – Exposure to toxic substances, dust, or chemicals can lead to respiratory conditions, such as asthma, lung diseases, or occupational illnesses like mesothelioma from asbestos exposure.
- Broken bones – Falling from a height or being struck by an object or vehicle can result in fractures.
As a result of their injuries, workers may require extensive medical treatment. This can include diagnostic testing, imaging tests, surgery, hospitalization, medication, physical and other types of therapy, home health care, and multiple follow-up appointments with doctors.
Who can be held liable after a workplace accident?
Injured workers are eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits after a workplace accident, no matter who was at fault. But they generally can’t take legal action against their employer, even if there was negligence.
However, it may be possible to file a claim against certain negligent third parties. These include:
- Manufacturers and suppliers – If a defective product or piece of equipment caused the workplace accident, the manufacturer or supplier of that product could be held liable. This could include faulty machinery, tools, safety equipment, or even toxic substances used in the workplace.
- Contractors and subcontractors – In industries where multiple parties work together, such as construction, subcontractors or general contractors may be responsible for maintaining a safe work environment. If their negligence or failure to adhere to safety regulations contributed to the accident, they could be held liable.
- Property owners – If the workplace accident occurred on property owned or controlled by someone other than the employer, the property owner may bear responsibility. This could include premises liability cases where hazardous conditions, such as slippery floors, inadequate lighting, or lack of maintenance, led to the accident.
- Engineers or architects – In cases where a design flaw or structural defect caused the accident, the engineers or architects responsible for designing or inspecting the premises or equipment may be held liable.
- Maintenance and repair companies – If the accident was caused by improper maintenance or negligent repair of equipment, machinery, or vehicles, the company responsible for maintenance or repair could be held liable.
- Independent contractors – If an independent contractor or their employees contributed to the accident, they may be held accountable for their actions or negligence.
- Negligent drivers – If a workplace accident involves a motor vehicle collision caused by a negligent driver who is not an employee, it may be able to hold that driver liable for damages.
Get legal advice as soon as possible.
If you were injured in a workplace accident, it’s important to understand your rights. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help.
While our firm is known nationwide for our work in trucking litigation, we also handle other types of personal injury claims. Our lawyers are determined to help you get the best possible outcome. We can thoroughly investigate your accident to get the facts, build a strong case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Learn more about how we can help by contacting us to schedule a free consultation.