Common Handyman Accidents

Handymen encounter a wide array of potential hazards as they perform their multifaceted job roles. From residential to commercial properties, the variety of tasks that fall under a handyman’s purview can be deceptively risky. To ensure safety and avoid common accidents, it is crucial for handymen to understand these dangers and employ vigilant safety practices.

If you are injured as a result of one such accident, remember that you may have legal options available. 

Types of Common Handyman Accidents

Before you find yourself in the middle of an injury claim, it’s important to understand how and why these accidents happen. The following are some of the most common types of handyman accidents: 

Falls from Heights

For many handymen, working at high elevations is just another day at the office, but it’s not without risk. Accidents involving heights often result in severe injuries due to the impact of the fall. The use of ladders, scaffolding, and work platforms can lead to unanticipated slips or collapses. The consequences of these incidents can mean fractures, spinal injuries, and traumatic head injuries.

Tool-Related Injuries

Tools are one of the most important parts of the job for a handyman, but they can also be dangerous if not handled with care. Power tools, such as saws and drills, are designed to cut through materials effortlessly, which includes flesh and bone. They can cause lacerations, amputations, and eye injuries that require immediate medical attention.

Electrical Accidents

One wrong move when working with electrical systems can lead to immediate and serious injury. Electric shocks can stop your heart or cause burns to the body. The insidious nature of electrical injury means that some symptoms may not manifest until days or even weeks later, highlighting the dangers of the trade.

Lifting Injuries

Handymen often undertake heavy lifting as part of their work. When done improperly, lifting heavy items can cause strains, sprains, and even significant damage to the back. Over time, these injuries can lead to chronic pain and may require extensive rehabilitation or surgery.

Exposure to Harmful Substances

In the course of repairs and renovations, handymen may come into contact with a variety of substances that can cause harm. Paints, solvents, asbestos, and other chemicals pose health risks if inhaled or come into contact with the skin. Long-term exposure may lead to more serious conditions such as respiratory problems or even cancer, like mesothelioma. 

If you’ve been in the handyman business for any amount of time, chances are you’ve encountered at least one of these risks. If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Legal Rights and Protections for Handymen

Handymen are not immune to the risks of workplace accidents; understanding your legal rights and protections is pivotal if an injury occurs. You generally have a few potential avenues for recourse, including:

Workers’ Compensation

Most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance which helps cover medical costs and wage loss after job-related injuries, regardless of who was at fault. If you work for someone else who has this type of insurance, this could be an option for you. 

Personal Injury Claims

If negligence contributed to your accident – whether due to unsafe work conditions or faulty equipment – or you work for yourself or your employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against your employer. 

Third-Party Claims

Sometimes, parties other than your employer could contribute to the harm you suffered. This might involve manufacturers if the tools were defective or property owners whose lack of maintenance led directly to an injury. In these cases, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party in addition to filing a workers’ compensation claim.

If you’re unsure about who may be responsible for your injury, it’s best to consult with a workplace injury attorney in Los Angeles who can help assess your case and determine the best course of action. Contact Grey Law to schedule a free consultation.