Window washing is one of the most dangerous jobs in Houston, especially on high-rise office towers that line the downtown skyline. A single misstep, faulty piece of equipment, or overlooked safety measure can change a worker’s life in an instant. If you or a loved one suffered harm in a fall or other accident while cleaning windows, you may be unsure of where to turn for help.
Speaking with a Houston window washing accident lawyer could give you clarity during this uncertain time. A knowledgeable construction injury attorney from KGS Law PLLC could review the details of your situation, identify who bears responsibility, and help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
How Do Window Washing Accidents Happen?
Window washers rely heavily on gear, such as scaffolds, harnesses, and lifts. When this equipment is poorly maintained or improperly secured, accidents may occur.
Contributing factors may include:
- Inadequate training for new workers
- Building owners cutting corners on safety
- Weather conditions like high winds or rain
- Defective ladders, ropes, or suspension devices
When businesses and property owners fail to uphold safety standards, they may be held legally accountable. A window washing accident attorney in Houston could investigate whether negligence played a role in your injuries.
What Compensation Is Available for Window Washing Injuries?
A fall from a height often results in catastrophic harm. Victims may face broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or long-term disability. Beyond the physical toll, many families struggle to cover hospital bills and adjust to the sudden loss of income.
Through a lawsuit, you can often recover for both financial and emotional losses, such as:
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Lost wages and reduced future earnings
- Permanent impairment or disfigurement
- Ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation
In Texas, because not every employer offers workers’ compensation, many injured window washers must explore personal injury claims—that is where a Houston attorney familiar with window washing accident cases can step in.
Liability for Window Washing Accidents
Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 95.003, property owners and contractors must provide reasonably safe work environments and follow required cleaning safety standards. If safety rules are ignored, the employer may be held liable for resulting injuries.
For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards codified in 29 C.F.R. § 1910.66 require building owners who install powered platforms for building maintenance to meet certain standards.
Cases involving high-rise or other window cleaning often center on premises liability, negligent hiring or training, or defective equipment. A lawyer familiar with Houston window washing injury cases could explain which legal theory applies to your situation and help build your claim.
Independent Contractors in Window Washing
Unlike many industries, many window washers are hired as independent contractors instead of employees. This classification complicates their legal rights. While employees may be covered by workers’ compensation, contractors are often left without that safety net.
This means that pursuing a civil claim may be the only path to recovering damages. However, contractors can still argue that a building owner, property manager, or equipment manufacturer failed to meet safety obligations. Including this angle makes these cases more complex but also opens the door to broader forms of compensation. Our Houston attorneys could review the specifics of your window washing accident case to determine the best path forward.
Contact a Houston Window Washing Accident Attorney for Help Today
If you or someone you love was injured in a window washing accident, you do not have to carry the burden alone. A Houston window washing accident lawyer could review your circumstances, explain your rights, and take steps to hold negligent parties accountable.
At KGS Law PLLC, we understand the unique risks window washers face and the devastating impact of a serious accident. Reach out today to discuss your case with a seasoned lawyer and take the first step toward financial recovery and peace of mind.