Construction work is dangerous, and the risk of injury is greater. Some of the common construction site injuries result from falling from heights due to unsafe ladders, hazardous scaffolding equipment, faulty equipment, and lack of fall prevention safety equipment. Other accidents may include electrocution, getting caught in machines or equipment, and being struck by accidents.
Although construction work is a dangerous profession, construction workers deserve a safe working environment. Construction injuries are covered under workers' compensation laws, and in some cases, an injured worker might have to pursue an injury lawsuit. Below are the steps to take after a construction site accident.
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1. Consult a personal injury attorney
Consulting a reliable and trustworthy lawyer helps you determine your legal rights and recourse options and the steps to take should you file a personal injury claim. In a construction claim case, you can recover wage loss and medical expenses benefits.
If your injuries result from someone else's negligence, you can file a personal injury lawsuit which can either be a product liability lawsuit or negligence lawsuit. Hiring the services of a reliable and trustworthy personal injury law firm such as Tiemann Law can help you get maximum compensation for your injuries.
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2. Seek medical attention
After being injured, it’s essential to get medical attention, even if your injuries are minor. This is because severe injury symptoms may not manifest until after hours or days since the accident. Prompt treatment of injuries is essential for your recovery. You can also use your treatment receipts as evidence you sought medical attention if you needed to file a personal injury lawsuit.
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3. Gather accident information
Gathering as much information as possible regarding your accident and injuries can ensure prompt compensation. The information you collect witness contact information if there were any present at the accident scene. Taking photographs of the accident scene comes in handy, especially if you need to prove that your employer didn't provide you with the necessary protective gear.
The photos can also act as proof of the injuries sustained due to the accident. Keep track of all your medical expenses for accurate compensation. Take note of any correspondence with your employer about your injuries or accident.
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4. Report your injury to your employer
Failing to report your injuries for fear of losing your job doesn't serve your best interests. Reporting your injuries to your supervisor or employer ensures you have accident documentation and may even bring to light unsafe practices to curb future accidents. If your employer asks you to sign any worker's compensation forms, it’s essential to consult an attorney to determine if you’re fairly compensated and advise you accordingly.
Reporting your accident accelerates your worker’s claim compensation process and authenticates your claim before the court, your employer, and the insurance company. If an accident occurs, OSHA requires companies to take specific steps to avoid future accidents and injuries.
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5. Seek worker’s compensation
Worker’s compensation covers lost income and medical expenses incurred due to on-job injuries. You have the right to this compensation if your injuries are work-related, your employer is insured for worker’s compensation, and your injuries aren’t as a result of your negligence.
Endnote
Construction site cases can be complicated and challenging to handle. Hiring a competent and reliable personal injury attorney can help you get total compensation for your injuries.
