A routine day at a Bethesda job site nearly turned tragic as two workers found themselves trapped in a collapsing trench. The quick intervention of Montgomery County emergency services kept the situation from deteriorating further, but this incident serves as a reminder of both the dangers inherent in construction work, and the necessity of our workers’ compensation system. Today’s Malloy news brief will cover this Bethesda construction accident in depth.
On Tuesday, March 10th, Montgomery County fire and rescue services were summoned to the 8100 block of Bethesda’s Kentbury Drive. Three men were digging a trench roughly ten to twelve feet in depth, looking for a leak, in the vicinity of a residential home when the trench unexpectedly collapsed. One man found himself buried up to his chest, while another was buried all the way to his head. Thankfully, the third man was able to free himself and contact emergency services.
Fire and rescue services arrived around noon and began a methodical, professional rescue effort, careful not to cause further collapses which may have buried the trapped men deeper. By 2 PM, both laborers had been freed and the more-deeply buried man was in transit to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment. We tip our caps to Montgomery county’s hardworking emergency responders, whose commitment and professionalism regularly keeps stories like these from turning tragic.
In the US, the construction sector employs around 7 million people. According to occupational deaths, construction is also the most hazardous occupation in the United States. A vibrant industry of building and contracting enterprises is required to support the DMV area’s rapid development. However, this cutthroat industry frequently puts the company’s earnings ahead of the wellbeing of its employees. For a construction company, getting the next contract—or not—can mean the difference between life and death. However, for their staff, the steps needed to get the next contract may be the difference between life and death. Injuries can result from strict schedules, poorly managed locations, and lengthy shifts for workers in dangerous situations.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), construction fatalities can generally be grouped into four main categories.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, Malloy Law is here to help. Whether you’re filing for workers compensation or pursuing a personal injury claim against a negligent party, our experienced and talented team will evaluate your case free of charge and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. Don’t wait. Contact Malloy Law and let’s win your case.