Should I Hire A Construction Accident Attorney?

Your chances of sustaining injuries if you work in the construction industry are high compared to people working in other occupations. While most work-related injury claims are limited to workers’ compensation benefits, in some cases, you can seek additional compensation from a third-party claim.

Contacting a construction accident attorney is the best way to determine whether the limitations of workers’ compensation laws apply to your case. Our lawyers understand that construction accidents can be life-changing. We are ready to fight for your right to secure fair compensation for your injuries and the emotional pain you suffered.

Common Accidents on Construction Sites

Construction accident claims sometimes result from acts of negligence. Carelessness on construction sites often leads to serious injuries and can be fatal in some cases.

Here are some of the most common types and causes of accidents on construction sites:

• Falls: Severe injury or death may result when a construction worker falls while working at high elevations.
• Falling objects: Falling tools, scaffolding, debris, drones, equipment, or even other workers may land on someone below and contribute to serious injury.
• Negligence in hiring or training: When workers fail to have proper training or qualifications to perform a task, especially those involving machinery or safety equipment, it can lead to an accident.
• Defective tools: Dangerous equipment that malfunctions due to inadequate design or manufacturing can lead to severe injuries.

How the accident occurred and the parties involved will determine who should be liable for the accident. Anyone from the property owner to the construction company, general contractor, government agency, or even manufacturer of a defective product may be responsible for a construction accident. Reaching out to a construction accident lawyer can help you determine if you should file a personal injury lawsuit and what entities are responsible for the accident.

Who Should Pay for a Construction Accident Injury?

In most construction accidents, injured workers will qualify for worker’s compensation but cannot file a lawsuit or claim against their employers for negligence. However, in cases of negligence where a third party, such as the manufacturer of a defective tool, fails to uphold a standard of care, you can recover compensation by filing a personal injury insurance claim or lawsuit.

Suppose a defective product like a malfunctioning crane or faulty saw leads to injuries. In that case, the manufacturer, seller, or designer of the defective device can be liable for the worker’s injuries.

Personal injury claims often base liability on negligence or carelessness, and the plaintiff’s lawyer must show that an act of negligence was directly responsible for the subsequent injuries and damages the plaintiff sustained.

In cases where an accident happens because of a negligent worker for another company, the other employer may be vicariously liable for the accident, which means you can sue that employer to increase insurance policy limits and possible compensation.

What Damages are Available in a Construction Accident Lawsuit?

Economic and non-economic damages are available in construction accident claims. Damages are typically monetary and awarded to the victim to compensate for losses they sustained due to the accident.

Some examples of compensatory damages in a construction accident lawsuit include:

• Lost income
• Long-term care
• Medical expenses (including medications or hospitalization costs)
• Rehabilitative treatment or physical therapy

Our lawyers will evaluate your case and determine the type of damages you should seek. You may also deserve non-economic damages for emotional pain and mental suffering. Punitive damages are awarded in cases where the defendant’s behavior was especially harmful. These types of damages are meant to deter others from similar actions in the future.

When Should I Hire a Construction Accident Lawyer?

As you can see, your options following a construction accident can be complicated. Contacting a construction accident lawyer as soon as possible is in your best interest and will get you the fairest compensation faster. The longer you wait to pursue a claim, the more difficult it will be to gather evidence in your case.

A reputable construction injury lawyer will always provide a free consultation, so it is in your best interest to speak with one who will account for all injuries and financial losses in your case before signing any settlement offers.

Construction Accident Lawyer FAQs

Who can I sue for injuries from a construction accident?

Any person or entity – outside of your employer – that contributed to your injuries can be liable for damages. Unless you can prove negligence on behalf of a third party, your claim can be limited to a worker’s compensation claim.

Should I retain an attorney for a construction accident case?

Even if you are unsure if someone else was at fault for the accident, it is wise to consult with a lawyer who can guide you through the complex process of construction accident case evaluation and litigation.

What are some common causes of construction injuries?

Accidents on construction sites are common, and some examples of accidents that occur regularly include power tool malfunctions, electrical injury, falls, heavy machinery mishaps, scaffolding failure, or falling debris.

What is OSHA, and what does it mean?

The Occupational and Safety Health Administration, or OSHA, sets workplace safety standards. Negligence is often provable in cases where property owners or other third parties fail to adhere to OSHA rules and guidelines.

How much is the typical settlement award for a construction accident case?

The settlement amount depends on several factors, including the extent of your injuries and in what state your injury occurred. Speaking to an experienced personal injury lawyer is the best way to figure out exactly how much you can potentially recover, as we can evaluate your losses and the recovery you need to cover them.

Contact Our Office for Your Free Consultation

If you suffered injuries in a construction accident, you may seek compensation for your injuries. A construction accident lawyer with the right experience can build a solid claim on your behalf and recover the maximum amount of compensation in your case.