Construction workers face risks every day on the job, including struck-by hazards, reckless drivers, slip-and-falls, and particle pollution exposure. Just this year in Detroit, a worker was killed after being struck by debris.
Situations like these are unfortunately common, and when they do happen, families are left wondering “what’s next?”
Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys is here to help mourning families and injured workers get the justice they deserve. Request a free consultation with one of our construction accident attorneys today.
Current Construction Projects in Detroit
Detroit is a growing city, and with every growing city, there is construction. The latest newsletter from Detroit’s Construction & Demolition Department shows that in 2024, there were over 7,000 homes that were demolished. Michigan also launched a Detroit Block by Block initiative that highlights some of the city’s demolition and restoration projects, including the Chandler Park Athletic Dome, Lynch Elementary School, and many more.
Some of Detroit’s current projects include:
- Mammoth Building demolition
- Emagine Theater
- The Alexandrine Apartments
- United Artists Building
- Henry Street Apartments
- The Jazz Club
- Milwaukee Junction Multi-Building Development
- Greystone Senior Housing Complex
- Joe Louis Arena Redevelopment
In addition to residential and commercial initiatives, Detroit has over 100 road construction projects on I-75, I-94, M-1, and M-10.
As Detroit continues to fund more projects, construction workers will continue to put their lives at risk to complete them.
Who Is Liable?
Construction accidents can often involve multiple parties, including the employer, the construction worker, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, and more.
A construction accident attorney can’t determine liability without knowing the details of the case, as each situation is unique.
Michigan’s Common Workplace Doctrine provides some guidance for determining employer liability by stating that the employer could be liable if it’s proven that they failed to take reasonable steps within their supervisory and coordinating authority, if they failed to guard against readily observable and avoidable dangers that created a high degree of risk to multiple workers in a common area.
In some situations, the injured person could be held partially liable. In such cases, courts will follow MCL 600.2959. Under this law, the court determines the percentage of comparative fault and then reduces the damages by that determined percentage. In these cases, economic damages are impacted, and noneconomic damages aren’t awarded.
In most cases, determining liability is challenging and requires an experienced construction accident attorney.
Common Types of Construction Accidents
In 2025, the most common types of construction accidents resulting in fatalities include:
- Struck by an object
- Falls (from elevated height)
- Inhalation of hazardous materials
- Electrocution
Under Michigan law, employers are required to identify hazards on-site and create a safety program to mitigate these risks. Construction is a known high-risk industry, so employers should have a safety program in place.
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FAQs
It can be easy to misinterpret existing laws or fail to keep up with changes. That’s why we’re here. Whether you’ve lost a loved one or you’re recovering from a serious injury, you can have peace of mind knowing you have a team of experienced attorneys on your side.
Below are some of the most common questions we’ve received regarding construction accident cases, but know that we’re always available to answer any additional questions you may have.
How Does Workers’ Compensation Work?
Your employer is responsible for submitting a workers’ compensation claim to their insurance company. Once your employer submits that, your workers’ compensation coverage is activated.
If the incident was so severe that it left you permanently disabled, your workers’ compensation will cover you for life. This means that you won’t ever have to pay for medical treatment related to your injuries. Keep in mind that once you turn 65, your benefits could be reduced by up to 50%, or when you start receiving Social Security retirement benefits.
What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?
Workers’ compensation covers part of lost wages and medical treatment (related to the injury); there aren’t copayments or deductibles to worry about. However, it does not cover coasts associated with pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of future income.
Can I Sue My Employer If I Receive Workers’ Compensation?
No, you cannot sue. If your injuries were the direct result of someone else’s negligence, we recommend contacting an attorney to discuss the possibility of a case. You can read this article for more information.
How Do I Start the Process?
First, seek medical help. Your health is the most important factor. Once you’ve received the care you need, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a personal injury firm like Giroux Pappas.
When Should I Talk to an Attorney?
As soon as possible. Although you have three years (from the date of your accident or injury) to file a claim, we never recommend waiting that long. As more time passes, it’s easier to lose invoices and medical treatment information, and it becomes harder to remember critical details about the situation over time.
How Much Will It Cost to Hire an Attorney?
Most personal injury attorneys, like Giroux Pappas, work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you pay nothing upfront, and your attorney will take a percentage of your settlement, should they recover one for you.
Should I Bring Anything During My Consultation?
No. During your initial consultation, our construction accident attorneys will ask for your version of the incident and other details, including:
- The time and location of the incident.
- Sustained injuries and if you were treated at a hospital.
- IF there was an accident report filed with OSHA or with your employer.
- Were there any 3rd parties involved with the incident and the company names
If we take your case, additional information will be needed for case development, and your attorney will provide guidance on the documentation that’s needed.
When you schedule your free consultation with Giroux Pappas, please let us know your preferred location. We can travel to you, if needed, especially if you’re in the hospital.