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Charlotte, NC (May 14, 2024) - According to local news sources, North Carolina is experiencing a tragic rise in construction worker fatalities, with preventable deaths occurring at alarming rates.
Lenin Romero, framing windows on a home in Wilmington, fell from a ladder and was impaled by an uncapped steel rod. A simple $2.30 safety cap could have saved his life. Joshua “Kerrey” Brindle was buried alive in Albemarle when an unprotected trench collapsed. Using a “trench box” could have prevented his death.
Timoteo Luna Anbroci, working on a steep roof in Charlotte, fell to his death. A safety harness might have saved him. In 2023, six construction workers died in Charlotte, including in a high-profile scaffolding collapse and a fire.
Construction deaths in North Carolina have been increasing. Over the past decade, nearly 360 construction workers died, with 47 fatalities in 2022 alone, the highest in a decade. Hispanic workers, who make up about 27% of the workforce, accounted for more than 60% of these deaths last fiscal year. Many of these fatalities were preventable with basic safety precautions and equipment, but state safety inspections have decreased by more than half since 2013.
North Carolina’s construction fatality rate of 11.5 deaths per 100,000 workers in 2022 is 20% higher than the national average and two and a half times higher than the rate for all workers in the state. Interviews with construction workers reveal that safety often takes a backseat to cost-cutting and meeting deadlines. Kenny Price, an insulation installer in Charlotte, noted that rushing and cutting corners lead to hazards.
Despite industry claims of prioritizing safety, state safety inspections are down due to staffing shortages, and fines for violations are often reduced. In 2023, the average penalty for a serious violation in North Carolina was $3,611, below the federal average.
In a tragic case from 2022, Lenin Romero, 39, fell onto a piece of uncapped rebar at a Wilmington construction site. His wife, Amarilis, remembers his last words, “I’ll be OK,” but questions why the safety caps were not used. Another preventable incident in 2023 involved Joshua “Kerrey” Brindle, buried alive in a trench in Albemarle. Despite known safety measures, Brindle Site Services failed to protect its workers.
The deadly fire at the Modera SouthPark complex in Charlotte on May 18, 2023, claimed the lives of Demonte Sherrill and Reuben Holmes. They were trapped on the sixth floor due to inadequate exits and the removal of a temporary stairway. The fire spread rapidly due to the lack of proper water connections and emergency response plans. The families of the victims have filed a lawsuit alleging negligence by Mill Creek Residential Trust and other contractors.
Unsafe practices continue to be observed on construction sites. Reporters witnessed workers without safety harnesses, unguarded rebar, and inadequately barricaded crane operations. Jaime Villalobos, a construction worker, highlighted the shortage of safety harnesses on a high-rise project in Charlotte’s South End.
Most construction deaths in North Carolina are preventable. Falls are the most common cause, but workers have also died from trench collapses, electrocutions, and equipment failures. State inspections and proper safety measures could save lives. Safety advocates call for more inspections, stricter penalties, and better training and equipment for workers.
As the construction boom continues, the pressure to cut costs and meet deadlines often compromises safety. Frank Brown, a construction superintendent in Charlotte, emphasized the importance of safety over schedules. Yet, with fewer than 1% of construction workers in North Carolina belonging to unions, comprehensive safety training is lacking.
The state labor department’s inability to conduct frequent inspections due to staffing shortages leaves many job sites unmonitored. In 2023, only 950 safety inspections were conducted, less than half of those performed in 2013. The Charlotte office struggles with vacancies, further reducing the number of inspections.
To protect construction workers, advocates urge contractors to prioritize safety, conduct regular inspections, and provide necessary training and equipment. With the average penalty for safety violations in North Carolina being lower than the federal average, increasing fines could deter unsafe practices. As Carol Brooke from the North Carolina Justice Center’s Workers’ Rights Project stated, “They have children. They have families. They have lives that mean something. That’s just something everybody should care about.”
Get Help from Rosensteel Fleishman After a Construction Accident
Accidents can be overwhelming, especially when they lead to serious injuries or fatalities. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a construction accident in Charlotte, NC, the legal team at Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers is here to help. Corey Rosensteel and Matthew Fleishman are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional legal support to those in need. To start your free consultation, call 1-704-714-1450.
Why Legal Support Is Important After a Workers Compensation Accident
Understanding your rights after a workplace accident is crucial. Hiring a law firm like Rosensteel Fleishman can make a significant difference in your case. They focus on personal injury and workers' compensation law, ensuring you get the best representation.
Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm
Working with a professional worker's compensation injury law firm provides several benefits. First, they understand the complexities of workers' compensation laws and can navigate the legal system efficiently. They also ensure all paperwork is correctly filed and deadlines are met. Additionally, having experienced attorneys increases your chances of receiving fair compensation.
What Does a Charlotte Accident Lawyer Do?
A Charlotte worker's compensation lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. They work to prove liability and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. By managing the legal process, they allow you to focus on recovery.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help After a Workers Compensation Accident?
A personal injury attorney can provide valuable assistance after a workplace accident. They will assess your case, explain your legal options, and represent you in court if necessary. Their goal is to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses, helping you to move forward with your life.
If you've been involved in a workplace accident, don't hesitate to seek legal help. Contact Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers at 1-704-714-1450 for a free consultation and let them help you through this challenging time.
How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Help Charlotte Workers Compensation Victims
The recent tragic incidents reported in Charlotte underscore the critical need for expert legal assistance for victims and their families. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers are well-equipped to support those affected by such devastating accidents. With their extensive experience in handling personal injury and workers' compensation cases, they provide invaluable assistance to victims and their families during these challenging times.
Families like those of Lenin Romero and Joshua “Kerrey” Brindle, who suffered unimaginable losses due to preventable construction accidents, can find a reliable ally in Rosensteel Fleishman. The firm's deep understanding of workers' compensation laws in North Carolina allows them to effectively advocate for the rights of injured workers and their families. They work tirelessly to ensure that clients receive the compensation they are entitled to, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
Rosensteel Fleishman also offers compassionate support to families dealing with wrongful death claims. The tragic fire at the Modera SouthPark complex, which resulted in the deaths of Demonte Sherrill and Reuben Holmes, highlights the importance of having a dedicated legal team to navigate the complexities of such cases. The firm’s attorneys can help families pursue justice and secure financial stability following the loss of a loved one.
By choosing Rosensteel Fleishman, clients benefit from a team that is not only skilled in legal matters but also deeply empathetic to the emotional and financial burdens faced by accident victims and their families. Their local presence in Charlotte ensures they are familiar with the specific regulations and legal environment of North Carolina, providing tailored and effective legal strategies.
If you or your family has been affected by a workplace accident, Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to help. Their commitment to securing justice and compensation for their clients makes them a trusted choice for those seeking legal assistance in the aftermath of a construction accident. Contact them today at 1-704-714-1450 to start your journey toward recovery and justice.
Why You Should Choose Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case
When it comes to dealing with the aftermath of an accident, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers are a top-rated firm based in Charlotte, NC, known for their dedication and expertise in personal injury and workers' compensation cases.
Corey Rosensteel and Matthew Fleishman have built a reputation for their compassionate approach and professional conduct. “Our priority is to ensure that every client feels supported and confident throughout their case,” says Corey Rosensteel. This commitment to client care sets them apart in the legal community.
Choosing a local law firm has its advantages. Rosensteel Fleishman understands the specific laws and regulations in North Carolina, providing personalized and knowledgeable legal support. Whether you need a Charlotte personal injury lawyer or a wrongful death attorney in Charlotte, NC, they are well-equipped to handle your case with the utmost care and expertise.
Their familiarity with the local courts and legal environment gives them an edge in navigating complex cases, ensuring that clients receive the best possible outcomes. The firm’s success in securing favorable settlements and verdicts for their clients speaks volumes about their capabilities.
Contact Rosensteel Fleishman Today for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been affected by a construction accident or any other personal injury in North Carolina, Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to help. They offer comprehensive legal services tailored to meet your needs, from personal injury to workers' compensation claims.
Starting a free consultation with Rosensteel Fleishman is easy. Simply call 1-704-714-1450 to speak with their experienced team. They are ready to listen, provide guidance, and help you take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—reach out to Rosensteel Fleishman today and let their expertise work for you.
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