KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Being a construction worker is the most dangerous job.
- In case of damage, seek help from a lawyer to protect your rights and get workers’ compensation.
- The common injuries include falls, strains, electric shocks, being hit by an object, and even exposure to chemicals.
- If you want more compensation, you can seek help from third-party lawsuits with the help of a lawyer to handle paperwork and get your best result.
- Always record everything to strengthen your case, from what happened to the treatment.
Did you know? The US Department of Labor releases that 2024 OSHA’s injury tracking application recorded 370000 work-related injuries and illnesses across the United States.
No one can deny that construction work is one of the riskiest jobs around the world, and the above numbers say it all. If you are in construction, you already know safety is not just instruction–it’s life-saving.
Prevention is better than a cure– first, you should know how to protect yourself. In case an accident happens, protecting your rights becomes another important procedure. Speaking with a lawyer can help you understand how to get fair compensation and navigate the complex rules about workers’ compensation and third-party claims.
Even a San Diego construction accident lawyer says that you might be able to claim more than you think through a third-party suit. However, its procedure is not simple.
So let’s break down some factors to help you decide the next step.
As a construction worker, you have the right to safeguard yourself in the workplace. Workers are given adequate training by employers on safety and dangers, as well as the availability of suitable equipment.
Injured employees are entitled to receive workers’ financial compensation to cover all costs arising from occupation-related injuries, such as hospital bills and lost wages. You also have the right to be treated by a doctor of your personal preference.
Don’t delay in reporting your injury because the time frame might be the most critical factor for your claim. In the event of employer disciplinary action or denial of your claim, seek legal counsel.
Construction accident lawyer Ross Bozarth says, if you suffered an injury on a construction site as a guest or visitor, it is important to find out what your legal rights are when it comes to paying for your medical charges. The contractor of the site or the owner construction firm may be at fault.
IMPORTANT FACT
“Each day, every 6000 people die on an average due to work-related accidents or disease. (Source: International Labour Organization)”
The common accidental injury at construction sites may arise, and knowing the types of injuries you are likely to face can keep you more conscious.
Falls from uncovered edges or unsecured ladders. Improper lifting or unfamiliar continuous motions can cause strains. Electric shocks from faulty wiring or tools pose the greatest risk to one’s life.
Tools or materials crashing from heights can cause maximum damage. Also, cuts and scrapes coming from sharp-edged sections and objects should be aware of.
Exposure to a highly toxic mix of chemicals may cause long-term Illness.
These injuries and illnesses must be observed cautiously if you wish to file a claim for your injuries.
After injuries on a construction site, always keep in mind that the more quickly you call a lawyer, the sooner your healing may start.
If the injury is serious or requires lengthy treatment, you should hire an attorney for representation. If claims are denied by the employer or you are coerced into signing away your rights, an attorney should be call for.
Some confusion may take place when you are filing a claim. So, consulting a lawyer surely clarifies any confusion and supports you with the claiming procedure. If multiple parties are involved in the incident, having a lawyer to deal with this type of complexity can be useful to your case.
Documentation of a construction injury will work as strong evidence for making a strong case. After the accident, take loads of pictures in real time as evidence, which includes the scene, injuries, and dangerous conditions of your surroundings.
Keep a record of your medical treatments: visits to a doctor, medicine, rehab, and the like. This documentation is useful in clarifying the extent of the victim’s injuries and the full extent of their loss.
Gather statements from other coworkers who witnessed the accident. Then collect their testimonies on record and take their contact details for references in the future. Your witnesses can support your claims with their statements.
Note down the points depicted in the image below, as a quick view of injuries that you must keep a record of.
Differentiating between workers’ compensation claims and third-party lawsuits is most valuable when you are negotiating for the settlement of an injury sustained at a construction site.
Workers’ compensation benefits are given without fault, including medical bills and work wages. But generally speaking, these assertions prevent one from suing the employer.
In a third-party lawsuit, you may pursue the case for more compensation from third parties apart from your employer, who are alleged to have imprudently contributed to your injury. For instance, you can give notice to seek compensation from a subcontractor or an equipment manufacturer.
Since there may be many similar and competing complications in these two claims, consulting a lawyer who knows both would surely help you maximize your award and sort out these procedure-related nightmares.
It takes courage to present yourself in a dangerous working environment. That is why being aware of your rights gives you an extra layer of protection for your security.
Ans: Falls from heights, muscle strains, being struck by falling objects, burns from chemicals etc., are some common types of work injuries.
Ans: Date, description, name of coworkers, and medical treatment records are important recordable factors for the documentation.
Ans: It usually depends on the case. If everything goes smoothly, it might take a few weeks or a couple of months. But if there are issues, it may take a little longer.
Ans: Make sure that the injury happened while doing work tasks, reported within weeks, must have medical records, and safety rules were broken by officials. Under these conditions, you are able to apply for compensation.
