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Construction Vehicle Accidents and Injuries in Florida

Heavy machinery and industrial vehicles are a constant presence on Florida construction sites. From dump trucks and bulldozers to forklifts and backhoes, these powerful machines can easily cause serious injuries or fatalities when they’re operated recklessly or maintained poorly. If you’ve been injured by a construction vehicle—whether as a worker or someone passing by—a Miami construction accident lawyer with Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve on account of your injuries.

Causes of Construction Vehicle Accidents

Unlike private passenger vehicles, construction site vehicles are often massive, loud, and difficult to maneuver. Many have large blind spots, uneven weight distribution, and limited stopping power. They are dangerous even under ideal conditions. Add in distractions, poor visibility, or rushed timelines, and the risk of an accident increases dramatically.

Common causes of Miami construction vehicle accidents include:

  • Inadequate operators training
  • Poor communication
  • Reversing equipment without alarms or spotters
  • Defective brakes, hydraulics, or steering mechanisms
  • Failure to maintain or inspect the vehicle properly
  • Operating vehicles in unauthorized or congested areas

In many cases, the injured person never saw the vehicle coming—or had no time to get out of the way.

Types of Injuries Caused by Construction Vehicles

Construction accident injuries tend to be severe, as these vehicles are built for power and productivity, not pedestrian safety. When a human body is caught in the path of one, the consequences can be life-altering or even fatal.

Some of the most common injuries include:

  • Crushed limbs or traumatic amputations
  • Spinal cord damage and paralysis
  • Pelvic fractures and internal bleeding
  • Brain injuries from impact or being thrown to the ground
  • Fatal injuries in rollover or run-over accidents

Whether you were operating the machine, working nearby, or visiting the site, these injuries can destroy your ability to work and live independently.

Who is Responsible for a Construction Site Vehicle Accident?

Florida law recognizes that construction vehicle accidents can injure both workers and non-workers, and the legal options available will depend on your role at the time of the incident. If you were employed on the site, workers’ compensation may provide compensation and medical benefits. However, when a third party—such as a subcontractor, vendor, or equipment manufacturer—is responsible, you may also have the right to pursue a separate personal injury claim.

For injured workers, this means you may recover more than just wage replacement and medical expenses through the workers’ compensation system. If someone other than your direct employer contributed to unsafe vehicle operation or maintenance, a personal injury lawsuit could allow you to seek compensation for pain and suffering, long-term disability, and future medical care.

For pedestrians, visitors, or motorists harmed by construction vehicles, Florida law allows you to file a negligence claim directly. You do not need to be employed on the site to hold companies accountable for failing to secure work zones, control vehicle movement, or prevent equipment from entering public areas.

In either case, responsible parties may include:

  • A subcontractor operating the vehicle without proper training or supervision
  • A general contractor that failed to enforce safety rules across the job site
  • A third-party vendor or rental company that supplied defective or unsafe equipment
  • The manufacturer of a construction vehicle with a dangerous mechanical flaw

The Miami construction accident lawyers at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada can evaluate your situation, determine who is legally responsible, and pursue every possible source of compensation. Identifying the right defendants early in the process can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Legal Guidance After a Construction Vehicle Crash

Construction vehicle accidents often involve serious injuries and complex legal questions. Insurance companies representing contractors and employers may try to minimize your claim or deny responsibility entirely. Time-sensitive evidence—like vehicle inspection records or site safety plans—can disappear quickly. Involving a Miami construction accident lawyer early allows you to secure that evidence, consult with safety experts, and build a strong case for your damages.

A successful claim may include compensation for:

  • Medical bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering, past and future
  • Future care needs and home accommodations

Florida law limits the time you have to file, so acting quickly is in your best interest.

Talk to a Miami Lawyer About Your Construction Vehicle Injury

If you were injured by heavy equipment or a construction vehicle on or near a job site, legal support can make all the difference. Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada has helped accident victims throughout South Florida since 1976. Our Miami personal injury lawyers understand the physical, financial, and emotional toll of these accidents and will fight to protect and pursue all your rights. There are no legal fees owed unless and until a financial recovery is secured for you. Give us a call at 877-448-8585 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. You can also connect with one of our attorneys through our secure online contact form.


Client Reviews
★★★★★
Carolyn Frank and her firm represented me on a workers compensation injury case, under the defense base act. She did a excellent job from the moment I contacted her until 3 years later the case was settled. Every benefit I was entitled too, Carolyn fought hard to secure. E-mails and phone calls were always returned promptly. Definitely 5 star rating. Daniel
★★★★★
I can't express how grateful I am for Elizabeth Estrada, attorney, and Elizabeth Cantin, secretary, for all the hard work in order to defend me in my time of need. My lawyer and secretary spent time explaining each step and what was to be expected. Because of this I felt a part of the whole process and understood what was going on. Thank you so much for all your hard work!
 Nicole D.
★★★★★
Attorney Elizabeth Estrada did an amazing job representing one of my family members. She is knowledgeable, genuine, trustworthy, and one of the most hard working attorneys that I know. She was readily available to assist my family member throughout the entire process. I felt confident my family was in great hands. Krystine C.
★★★★★

Carolyn is very professional. Honest since the beginning of the process till the end. She set up a game plan with you at the consultation and makes it happen. Peterlee G.
★★★★★
I would like to thank the staff of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A. The staff is professional. My attorney, Ronald Rodman, was responsive towards my email and a great advocate on my behalf for my car accident. I highly recommend this office. I hope that I will not get in a car accident again, but if I do, I'm calling Mr. Rodman. Orlando R.
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