Landscape architects are accountable for designing parks, gardens, and other public and private outdoor spaces. In spite of the fact that their work frequently results in aesthetically pleasing and functional landscapes, poor design can result in severe or fatal construction accidents.
Landscape architects must ensure that outdoor designs are secure for all visitors, employees, guests, and others who visit or work at the site. During the planning phase, landscape architects must create the project with safety precautions in mind. If you are wondering, “Can I get help with my construction accident case? The answer is yes.
Landscape Architects Cause Frequent Construction Accidents
- Slippery Conditions
Landscape architects have the responsibility for designing aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor spaces. Some designs contain fall hazards that pose a risk to the construction crew. Uneven or unevenly shaped pavers, curbs, planters, stairs, slippery surfaces for walking, insufficient lighting, and other factors can lead to severe trips and falls. Slip-and-fall or trip-and-fall accidents frequently result in severe injuries, including, among others, fractured bones, injuries to the head, back, and neck trauma, spinal cord damage, and broken bones.
- Objects Falling
In addition to designing constructions and features that pose the danger of falling objects, landscape architects are also accountable for their creations. Unsecured structures, such as trellises, pergolas, and shelters, can cause injuries if they collapse. Injuries caused by falling objects may include concussions, fractures, bone breaks, or even more severe injuries. Identifying possible dangers and taking reasonable precautions to reduce risks to employees on-site must be a component of the planning process.
Landscape Architects’ Contributions to Construction-Related Injuries
Landscape architects play a crucial role in designing aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor spaces. Among the most prevalent contributors to construction site injuries are:
A dearth of interaction between the landscape architect and the construction team is one of the leading causes of construction-related injuries. When a landscape architect fails to communicate the design explicitly or disregards the construction team’s feedback, the likelihood of worker injuries increases. In addition, severe or catastrophic injuries can result if the landscape architect disregards or is oblivious to possible hazards in the design, such as uneven surfaces or hidden obstacles.
When is a Landscape Architect Liable for Damages?
Landscape architects must ensure that their designs are safe, functional, meet their clients’ requirements, and conform to the industry’s safety standards. When landscape architects fail to meet these requirements, there is a high risk of injury or death among construction laborers.
By developing plans with hazardous design flaws, a landscape architect is negligent if he or she fails to meet industry safety standards. When a severe construction accident occurs, a party may be held liable if the design is hazardous or the architect lacks to assess potential dangers.