Construction sites can be bustling with activity, heavy machinery, and countless workers all trying to finish a job on time. However, this fast-paced environment also creates potential hazards. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more than 20% of all worker fatalities in the U.S. happen in construction. It’s not surprising that construction workers are more prone to serious injuries than those in other industries.
In fact, according to the National Safety Council, construction accidents account for a large percentage of all workplace injuries and fatalities in the U.S. These accidents often involve serious, life-altering injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord damage.
In such circumstances, it’s not just about recovering physically, but also about recovering financially. Workers are often left wondering how to cover the cost of treatment, lost wages, and long-term care, especially when negligence or unsafe conditions are involved.
While some may turn to workers’ compensation, it’s important to understand that Goldman, Daszkal & Associates does not handle workers’ compensation cases. Instead, our firm focuses on personal injury claims that arise from construction accidents, particularly when third-party negligence is involved. These types of claims are separate from the workers’ compensation process and can help injured workers seek additional compensation when someone other than their employer is at fault.
This is where a construction accident lawyer steps in. They play a vital role in helping injured workers not only understand their rights but also in ensuring they are compensated for their suffering. But when exactly should you reach out to a construction accident lawyer?
Common Causes Of Construction Accident Injuries
Some of the most common causes of accidents include falls, which are the leading cause of construction worker injuries. Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or roofs are frequent and often serious. Being struck by objects is another common cause, with items such as tools, equipment, or materials falling or being projected and causing injuries.
Electrocution is also a major risk, as construction workers often work near power lines and electrical equipment, which can lead to severe burns or fatalities. Caught-in or between accidents occur when workers are trapped between machinery or other objects, resulting in crushing injuries.
Vehicle accidents, too, are prevalent, as workers often use trucks or other heavy machinery, and collisions or accidents involving these vehicles can result in significant injuries.
Understanding these hazards helps you know why accidents happen. If you were hurt because rules weren’t followed, like missing guardrails or unsecured loads, you may have the right to compensation. We’ve seen how simple oversights lead to serious harm. By knowing the common causes, you can spot when negligence may be involved and take action.
When Should You Hire a Construction Accident Lawyer?
Understanding when to contact a lawyer after a construction accident can be challenging, especially when emotions and physical pain are involved. Here are key situations where hiring a construction accident lawyer becomes crucial:
1. Serious Injuries or Disabilities
If your injury results in significant medical treatment, long-term disability, or permanent damage, it’s essential to consult with an attorney. Major injuries that require long-term treatment, result in permanent damage, or significantly impact your ability to work should be reviewed by a lawyer to explore personal injury claim options.
2. Third-Party Liability
In many construction accidents, workers are not just at risk from their employer’s actions but from third-party contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. For example, if a subcontractor’s faulty equipment causes your injury, a lawyer can help identify liable parties and pursue personal injury compensation. These cases are completely separate from workers’ compensation claims.
3. Lack of Proper Safety Measures
If your injury resulted from the failure of a third party to follow safety regulations or provide adequate training or equipment, this could open the door to a personal injury claim.
4. Wrongful Death
If a loved one has passed away due to a construction accident, an attorney can help the family navigate wrongful death claims, ensuring that the deceased worker’s family is compensated for their loss.
5. Complex Liability Issues
Sometimes construction accidents involve multiple parties, such as contractors, subcontractors, property owners, and equipment suppliers. Sorting through who is at fault and proving liability can be complicated, especially when multiple insurance companies are involved. A lawyer can ensure that all parties are held accountable.
6. Settlement Offers that Don’t Reflect Full Compensation
Insurance companies often make early settlement offers to close cases quickly. These offers can be much lower than the compensation a worker truly deserves, especially for long-term injuries. A lawyer ensures that you’re not undercompensated and that your long-term needs are addressed.
How Can a Construction Accident Lawyer Help?
Once you decide that you need a lawyer, it’s important to understand how they can support you throughout the process. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps your attorney will take to ensure you get the compensation you deserve:
1. Investigating the Accident
Your lawyer will begin by investigating the cause of the accident. This may involve visiting the site, gathering witness statements, reviewing safety protocols, and analyzing any equipment that contributed to the accident. In construction cases, detailed investigations are often needed to establish the cause of the accident and who is responsible.
2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements or denying claims altogether. A skilled attorney will handle all communication with insurance adjusters, ensuring that you’re not taken advantage of and that your claim is processed properly.
3. Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. Construction accident cases can be complex, but a lawyer will be prepared to represent your interests in court, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable.
4. Pursuing Third-Party Claims
In situations where a third party’s negligence caused the accident, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit against that party. This may include claims against equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, or property owners who failed to maintain safe conditions on the site.
5. Ensuring Fair Compensation
A construction accident lawyer will help determine the full extent of your damages, including:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages (for the time you missed work)
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Rehabilitation costs
- Funeral costs (in wrongful death cases)
If your case goes to court, your lawyer will fight for your rights. With their knowledge of the legal system, they will present compelling evidence, call witnesses, and make strong arguments to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available.
What to Look for in a Construction Accident Lawyer
When hiring a construction accident lawyer, make sure to look for the following:
- Experience: Your lawyer should have experience in personal injury law, specifically in construction accidents.
- Track Record: A strong history of successful cases and settlements is a good indicator of a lawyer’s competence.
- Communication Skills: Choose a lawyer who is responsive and keeps you updated on your case’s progress.
- Contingency Fee Structure: Most construction accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win your case.
A construction accident can change your life in an instant. While Goldman, Daszkal & Associates does not handle workers’ compensation claims, we are experienced in personal injury cases involving third-party negligence at construction sites.
Remember, the construction industry is a complex environment, with multiple parties involved in many accidents. A skilled attorney can navigate this web of complexity, providing you with the legal expertise and support you need.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, contact Goldman, Daszkal & Associates today for a consultation. Your rights and future should not be left to chance, and an experienced construction accident lawyer can make all the difference.
