Construction Site Injuries and the Exploitation of Foreign-Born Workers: A Call for Justice

Construction sites are among the most dangerous work environments in the U.S., particularly for foreign-born workers. These individuals often take on the most hazardous tasks, facing a higher risk of serious injury or even death. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, foreign-born Hispanic or Latino workers made up 14% of work-related deaths in 2021, despite accounting for only 8.2% of the U.S. workforce. The construction industry, in particular, sees the highest rates of fatalities for these workers, with falls, slips, and trips being the most common causes.
This disturbing trend highlights not only the dangers of construction work but also a systemic problem: companies taking advantage of their foreign-born workforce. In Texas, this issue is especially pronounced. Construction companies rely heavily on immigrant labor, but when accidents happen, these same companies often try to cover up the incidents, downplay the severity of injuries, or ignore the pleas of family members, especially when the injured or deceased worker’s family resides in another country.
The Role of Plaintiff Attorneys: Advocating for Injured Workers
As plaintiff attorneys, we are committed to representing individuals who have been harmed by negligence, regardless of their background or immigration status. We see far too often how employers attempt to silence or intimidate injured workers, hoping that their legal status and fear of repercussions will prevent them from seeking justice. However, injured workers, no matter their immigration status, should never be afraid to speak to an attorney. Attorney-client communications are confidential, and workers have the right to legal representation without fear of exposure or retaliation.
It’s critical that we do not allow companies to exploit immigrant labor and then turn their backs when negligence leads to serious injuries or fatal accidents. In many cases, these workers are the backbone of the construction industry, performing labor-intensive tasks in challenging conditions. Yet, when they are injured, companies may fail to provide adequate medical care, compensation, or even basic answers about what happened.
This is particularly troubling when a worker’s family is abroad, leaving loved ones in the dark about the circumstances of a death or serious injury. Families seeking answers are often ignored, as companies distance themselves from the incident and avoid accountability. This negligence not only harms the injured workers but also their families, who may be financially dependent on the worker’s income.
Construction Workers Have Rights, Regardless of Immigration Status
Construction workers, especially foreign-born workers, face significant risks on the job. But they also have rights. If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, do not hesitate to reach out to an attorney. Whether you are a documented or undocumented worker, you deserve justice, and you have the right to seek legal counsel without fear. Together, we can ensure that companies are held accountable for their negligence and that no worker is left to suffer in silence or family is left in the dark after a preventable accident.
Please note this article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for legal advice.

Mikal Watts
Mikal C. Watts is Board-Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and is a Martindale-Hubbel AV Rated Lawyer.