Fort Myers Construction Accidents

Fort Myers Construction Accident Lawyer | Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, P.A.

Construction sites are among the most dangerous work environments, where serious injuries can occur in an instant. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident in Fort Myers, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, P.A., our dedicated construction accident lawyers have been fighting for injured workers and their families throughout Southwest Florida since 1962.

Understanding Construction Accidents in Fort Myers

Construction accidents can happen to anyone on a job site - workers, visitors, or passersby. These incidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the inherent dangers present at construction sites, including heavy machinery, hazardous materials, unstable structures, and working at dangerous heights.

Common Types of Construction Accidents

Construction sites in Fort Myers face unique challenges due to Florida's weather conditions and rapid development. The most frequent construction accidents we handle include:

• Falls from Heights - The leading cause of construction fatalities, these accidents occur when workers fall from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or unprotected edges. Florida's OSHA requirements mandate fall protection systems for work performed six feet or higher.
• Struck-by Accidents - Workers can be struck by falling objects, moving vehicles, or swinging equipment. These accidents often occur when proper safety protocols aren't followed or safety equipment fails.
• Electrocution Injuries - Contact with live electrical wires, faulty equipment, or power lines can cause severe burns, cardiac arrest, or death. Electrical accidents are particularly dangerous in Florida's humid climate.
• Caught-in/Between Accidents - Workers can become trapped in excavations, crushed by heavy machinery, or caught between moving equipment and stationary objects.
• Equipment Malfunctions - Defective tools, machinery failures, or inadequate maintenance can lead to serious injuries on construction sites.

How Our Fort Myers Construction Accident Attorneys Can Help

When you're injured in a construction accident, multiple parties may be responsible for your injuries. Our experienced attorneys thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case to identify all liable parties and maximize your compensation.

Comprehensive Case Investigation

Our legal team conducts detailed investigations that may include:

• Examining OSHA safety records and violation reports
• Reviewing construction site safety protocols and training records
• Consulting with construction safety professionals and engineers
• Analyzing equipment maintenance records and manufacturer defects
• Interviewing witnesses and documenting the accident scene
• Working with accident reconstruction specialists when necessary

Identifying All Responsible Parties

Construction accident cases often involve multiple defendants, including:

• General Contractors - Responsible for overall site safety and coordination
• Subcontractors - May be liable for unsafe work practices in their specific trades
• Property Owners - Can be held responsible for dangerous site conditions
• Equipment Manufacturers - Liable when defective tools or machinery cause injuries
• Architects and Engineers - May bear responsibility for design defects that create hazards

Personal Injury Practice Areas We Handle

• Car Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Bicycle Accidents
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Boat Accidents
• Bus Accidents
• Slip and Fall
• Medical Device Defects
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Electric Scooter Accidents
• Golf Cart Accidents

Fort Myers Legal Landscape and Local Resources

Fort Myers serves as the judicial center for Lee County, with the Lee County Justice Center located at 1700 Monroe Street handling most civil litigation matters. Our attorneys are familiar with the local court system and have established relationships with judges, court personnel, and opposing counsel throughout the area.

The rapid growth and development in Fort Myers has led to numerous construction projects throughout the city, from downtown high-rises to residential developments in areas like Gateway and Estero. This construction boom has unfortunately coincided with an increase in workplace accidents and injuries.

Workers' Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims

Workers' Compensation Benefits

If you're an employee injured on a construction site, you're typically entitled to workers' compensation benefits, which may include:

• Medical expenses related to your injury
• Partial wage replacement during recovery
• Vocational rehabilitation if you cannot return to your previous job
• Disability benefits for permanent impairments

Third-Party Personal Injury Claims

When parties other than your direct employer contributed to your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking additional compensation for:

• Full wage replacement for lost income
• Pain and suffering damages
• Future medical expenses
• Loss of earning capacity
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Compensation Available in Construction Accident Cases

The compensation available in construction accident cases depends on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the degree of negligence involved. Our attorneys work diligently to secure maximum compensation for:

Economic Damages:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Modifications to your home or vehicle for disabilities
• Vocational retraining expenses

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of consortium for spouses

Why Choose Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, P.A.

Since our founding in 1962, we have built a reputation as one of Southwest Florida's most trusted personal injury law firms. Our board-certified attorneys bring decades of combined experience to every case, and we have successfully represented thousands of injured clients throughout the region.

Our Advantages:

• Six Decades of Experience - Established in 1962, we understand how personal injury law has evolved
• Board-Certified Attorneys - Our lawyers have achieved the highest level of professional recognition from the Florida Bar
• Local Knowledge - Deep understanding of Fort Myers courts, judges, and legal procedures
• Comprehensive Resources - Ability to handle complex cases requiring extensive investigation and professional witnesses
• No Fee Unless We Win - We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accidents

How long do I have to file a construction accident lawsuit in Florida?

Florida's statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally four years from the date of the accident. However, certain circumstances may affect this timeline, so it's important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

Can I sue if I was partially at fault for my construction accident?

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. You can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault for the accident, though your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if my employer doesn't have workers' compensation insurance?

If your employer failed to carry required workers' compensation insurance, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit directly against them, in addition to any third-party claims.

How much is my construction accident case worth?

The value depends on factors including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, degree of negligence, and impact on your quality of life. Our attorneys provide free case evaluations to discuss potential compensation.

Do I need a lawyer for a construction accident claim?

Construction accident cases are complex, often involving multiple parties, insurance companies, and legal theories. Having experienced legal representation significantly improves your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

What should I do immediately after a construction accident?

Seek immediate medical attention, report the accident to your supervisor, document the scene if possible, gather witness information, and contact an attorney before speaking with insurance representatives.

Find Out If You Have a Case

If you've been injured in a construction accident in Fort Myers or anywhere in Southwest Florida, don't wait to protect your rights. The experienced construction accident lawyers at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, P.A. are ready to evaluate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (239) 397-3691 or visit our contact page to schedule your free consultation. Time is critical in construction accident cases, so call now to find out if you have a case.