Construction sites are known for their potential dangers, and construction workers face a variety of risks on a daily basis. Accidents on construction sites can cause severe injuries and fatalities. Just some of the most common accidents for construction workers include
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Falls
Falls from heights are the leading cause of injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. Workers can fall from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, and other elevated surfaces. Proper fall protection measures, such as harnesses, guardrails, and safety nets, can help prevent falls. If you fell, your lawyer will want to know if these were in place.
Struck by objects
Construction sites have a lot of moving parts, such as heavy machinery, cranes, and vehicles. Workers can be struck by flying debris, falling tools, or moving equipment.
Electrocution
Electrical hazards are common on construction sites, and workers can be electrocuted if they come into contact with live wires or electrical equipment.
Caught in-between
Workers can be caught in-between objects, such as equipment, walls, or trenches. This can cause crushing injuries and suffocation.
Repetitive motion injuries
Not all injuries happen in an instant. Construction work often requires repetitive motions, such as lifting, carrying, and bending. These motions can cause injuries over time, such as back pain, muscle strain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Proper training, equipment, and job rotation can help prevent these injuries.
Heat-related illnesses
Construction work often takes place outdoors, and workers can be exposed to extreme heat and humidity. This can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses. Proper hydration, rest breaks, and PPE can help prevent these illnesses. If your employer isn’t allowing you to take breaks, this is something your lawyer will certainly want to know.
Employers can help prevent accidents by providing proper training, equipment, and PPE, as well as implementing safety protocols and procedures. If yours did not, that is when a lawyer should be brought in.
Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Construction accidents can happen even in the most secure locations. They can leave workers dependent on their workers’ compensation insurance for financial support. However, their compensation claim can be disputed, and their benefits denied, or they might not fully benefit from them in some instances.
In some construction accident cases, more than one party might be liable for your injuries due to their negligence. All of these situations are perfect examples of when you should hire a personal injury lawyer after a construction accident.
A personal injury lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, the liable parties are held accountable for their negligence, and your compensation is fair in proportion to the injuries and other losses you have suffered. Here is what you should know.
Construction Accidents and Compensation Claims
A workers’ compensation claim isn’t the only financial support a construction accident victim can receive after a traumatic event. Sometimes, the building owner, contractor, or other entities can also be held accountable for their negligence and the victim’s injuries.
New York has many powerful and effective labor laws that come into play in construction accidents, and a lawyer can help you understand and use these laws in your favor. The accident scene will be analyzed by many professionals to determine how it occurred and who is at fault, but who is to say that your employer won’t mess with evidence or use witness statements in their favor?
With a lawyer by your side, you can rest assured that the investigation and preservation of evidence won’t be tampered with, and experts collaborating with your lawyer will ensure that you have a strong case on your hands.
With their help, you can prove that the property owner or contractor was negligent or that unsafe construction equipment was used. If they are responsible and were aware of their actions, they will most likely seek assistance in undermining or denying your claim.
However, you can gain the upper hand with legal assistance and receive compensation well beyond your workers’ compensation benefits, especially since personal injury lawyers know how specific injuries can affect a person’s life.
Enforcing Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Even though most workers qualify for workers’ compensation, that doesn’t mean they can’t lose their eligibility when receiving benefits. Reporting the accident promptly and accurately, visiting approved doctors, and following their treatments are crucial for your case.
A mistake could lead to your workers’ compensation getting denied. This is when a workers’ compensation attorney can help you get your compensation and ensure that your benefits are upheld.
They will also check what benefits you receive and if any are missing. Some workers can qualify for disability benefits, for example. You should benefit from full medical care coverage and accurate disability benefits after a work-related accident. A lawyer can ensure that you do so for as long as necessary.
