New data shows that construction fatalities decreased by 10 percent between 2009 and 2010.  In addition, fatalities from construction accidents and injuries have decreased by approximately 40 percent since 2006.

Officials with the Associated General Contractors of America said that the industry has an increased focus on worker safety.  In 2010, there were a total of 751 fatalities in the construction industry.  In 2009, there were 834 construction fatalities.

260 of the construction fatalities were caused by elevated falls.  The second most common cause of fatalities was accidents involving equipment.

“The industry has made safety a top priority in good times and bad, and the new data shows those efforts are helping save lives.  But even one fatality is too many, which is why this data also serves as a somber reminder of the work that still needs to be done,” said the CEO of the AGC.

If you or a loved one has been injured working construction, contact the Raleigh construction accident attorneys of Scudder & Hedrick, PLLC at 919-851-3311 to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer today.