Table of Contents

I. Introduction

II. Common Causes of Construction Worker's Injury

III. Things You Should Do If You Are Injured on a Construction Site

IV. Importance of Hiring a Construction Accident Lawyer

V. Seeking Compensation

VI. Conclusion

VII. FAQ

Introduction

Construction sites are dangerous places. The job requires physical exertion. Heavy machinery, heights, and working beside busy roadways are everyday tasks for construction workers. Construction employees, however, face a substantial risk of workplace injury due to the nature of their trade.

Suppose you were hurt on the job as a construction worker. In that case, you may be dealing with significant medical difficulties, persistent pain, and financial concerns due to missed work and medical expenditures. The law protects workers injured on the job in various ways.

Common Causes of Construction Worker's Injury

Construction workers are often subjected to extreme weather conditions, dangerous equipment, and hazardous work environments daily.

1. Falling From Heights

Falling off a ladder or scaffolding is one of the most common causes of workplace injury on construction sites. Workers can fall ladders because of a sudden slip, or a ladder could give way or collapse. Falls from great heights have devastating results, such as spinal cord injuries or head trauma that can leave the victim permanently disabled.

2. Hazardous Equipment

Injuries can also occur when workers operate faulty equipment. Construction equipment is heavy and sometimes poorly maintained, resulting in serious falls or crushing injuries when an operator loses control.

3. Electrocution and Fire

Electrocution is a common cause of construction worker injuries. Workers may be shocked by electrical wire that is improperly installed, or a worker can be burned by equipment that has not been properly grounded. Electrical fires can also occur due to faulty wiring.

4. Falling Objects

Construction job sites are often cluttered with heavy items that can fall and harm workers. Building materials can also be dangerous if they are not properly installed or maintained. A worker could be struck on the head by a piece of falling construction material. These injuries are typically severe and can lead to long-term disability or death.

5. Lack of Safety Training

Construction work is dangerous. There are specific safety precautions that workers should take when doing the work. Safety training is necessary to keep workers from harm, but many construction workers die because they lack proper safety training and the equipment needed for safety.

6. Tractor-Trailer Accidents

Construction workers often work in the shadow of busy roadways. While contractor trucks are meant to safeguard workers, backing up into workers is so common that it is one of the leading causes of construction worker fatalities.

Things You Should Do If You Are Injured on a Construction Site

1. Check Your Injuries and Seek Medical Attention

It's always good to get an immediate medical assessment from a doctor or healthcare provider. Many injured people at work undergo emergency medical treatment at the scene. Seeking the help of doctors right away could also help your case whether you pursue a lawsuit or not.

2. Report Your Workplace Injury

You must report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer should have a plan in place to handle workplace injuries. That plan should detail what you should do if you are injured, who you should contact after an injury, and who you should contact for follow-up care.

3. Make Sure You Get Workers' Compensation

In most states, if you are injured on the job and suffer a work-related illness or injury, you are automatically entitled to workers' compensation benefits. The amount and type of benefits vary from state to state. If you're not sure whether you're covered, talk to a lawyer specializing in workers' compensation.

4. Be Honest

Workers' comp is a no-fault system. That means that the system is designed to compensate workers for their injuries without blaming the worker or the employer. If you accept workers' compensation benefits, you agree that you were injured in the line of duty and have received your employer's conditions of employment. If you later decide to sue your employer for your injuries, however, you may lose your right to these benefits.

5. Get Legal Advice

If you were injured because of someone else's negligence, you might have a valid legal claim against the party that caused your injuries. However, you may be required to report your injuries to your employer and go through the workers' compensation system before filing a lawsuit.

Importance of Hiring a Construction Accident Lawyer

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Construction accident lawyers can help you recover damages in many ways. The first and most important reason you should hire a construction accident lawyer is to help prevent your employer from denying responsibility for your injuries.

Many companies have strict insurance policies that require them to deny responsibility for their workers' injuries. These companies typically have insurance policies that cover them in an accident.

This does not mean that the company denies responsibility. However, it means that the company will typically argue that the accident was the worker's fault. If you were injured, the company could use this defense to avoid paying you compensation.

You may have a valid legal claim against your employer, regardless of their employer's insurance policy requirements. An attorney specializing in construction accidents and workers' compensation will know if your employer's insurance policy allows the company to deny responsibility.

Your attorney can help you fight any efforts your employer may make to deny responsibility for your injuries. If your employer does deny responsibility for your damages, you should still report to your employer. Their insurance company may try to use your lack of cooperation against you in later legal action. Here is a list of how an attorney can and will help:

1. Knowledge of Construction Laws

Construction accident lawyers specialize in the laws and regulations pertaining to construction sites. They are familiar with the specific legal requirements that govern the industry. By hiring a lawyer, you gain access to their expertise in navigating these laws and ensuring your rights are protected.

2. Investigating the Accident

One of the critical roles of a construction accident lawyer is to investigate the accident thoroughly. They will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the site to determine the cause of the accident. This investigation is crucial in establishing liability and building a strong case on your behalf.

3. Gathering Evidence

To support your claim, substantial evidence is necessary. A skilled construction accident lawyer will know what evidence to collect, such as accident reports, medical records, photographs, and expert opinions. They will gather and organize this evidence to strengthen your case and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

4. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts in construction accident cases. They may use various tactics to undervalue your claim or deny it altogether. A construction accident lawyer will handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

5. Negotiating Settlements

In many cases, construction accident claims are resolved through settlements. An experienced lawyer will skillfully negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible settlement. They will consider your current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages to ensure that you receive a fair and just compensation.

6. Pursuing Legal Action

In situations where a settlement cannot be reached, a construction accident lawyer will guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit. They will prepare your case for trial, gather expert witnesses, and represent you in court. Their legal expertise and courtroom experience will be invaluable in pursuing the necessary legal action.

Seeking Compensation

Victims of construction accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Rehabilitation costs
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death

Conclusion

Construction accidents can have a devastating impact on your physical health. They can also have a severe effect on your finances. Compensation for work injuries can provide you and your family with the financial resources you need to get well and recover from your injuries.

In addition, compensation can be used to pay your current medical expenses and compensate you for the permanent injuries resulting from your injuries. Suppose your employer's insurance policy has strict requirements. In that case, it may be in your best interest to speak with a lawyer to determine whether you have any legal claim against the company that caused your injuries.

Don't hesitate to contact a dedicated injury attorney to discuss your rights if you were injured at work. If you need an accident lawyer in Los Angeles, Mendez & Sanchez Law is here to help. Our attorneys and support staff are here to assist you as we negotiate the complex legal landscape to achieve the compensation you deserve. Contact us for any legal needs today!

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