Workers Compensation Attorneys
Even the most responsible and safe construction worker, may end up getting hurt on the job at one point or another. A worker may wear safety gear at all times, use equipment as it was intended and never take any risks. Despite doing everything right, a construction worker may suffer from an accident. A worker who was hurt on the job may feel as though their employer is not responding appropriately to what happened. When this is the case, many workers may turn to a legal professional for advice on how to proceed.
Q: What if being a construction worker is just a dangerous job?
A: Even though construction workers do have one of the most risky jobs out there, this doesn’t mean an employer can be irresponsible in regards to safety and regulations. Construction sites are more dangerous by nature, but workers still deserve the right to work in a reasonably hazard free environment. Employers for construction companies must do what they can to prevent terrible accidents from happening at all.
Q: What are the most common reasons for construction accidents?
A: There are several ways that even the most safety-conscious construction worker may get hurt on the job. Construction accidents can result in the worker experiencing mild to severe injuries that require immediate medical attention. In the most devastating of circumstances, a construction worker may not survive the accident or succumb to conditions later on in the hospital. Here are some of the more common ways construction accidents happen:
- Chemical spills
- Explosions
- Crane accidents
- Falling rock, brick or building materials
- Electric shock
- Severe burns
- Scaffolding falls
- Malfunctioning machinery
Q: What are my legal options if I want to seek compensation for the accident?
A: Construction accidents can be incredibly complicated, so it is typically encouraged that an injured worker consults with a lawyer that is familiar with these types of cases. There may be more than one reason for the accident happening, which means different parties may have some degree of liability. Your legal options an depend on the laws for your particular state. In general, there are often two ways that a construction accident may be handled:
- Construction accidents may have to go through the state workers compensation program, which can mean the worker has trouble pursuing a personal injury lawsuit through the court system.
- Some states may allow personal injury lawsuits related to construction accidents, so the best way to find out what the rules are based on where you live is to talk with a legal professional.
Q: Should I just try to work things out with my employer?
A: This depends, as your employer may be more or less willing to respond to the accident with compassion and support. In some situations, an employer may try to wrongfully fire a worker for utilizing workers compensation benefits. The worker who sustained the injury may be costing the company money in medical bills. To help avoid being retaliated against for the accident, it may be best to get legal advice from a construction accident lawyer Des Moines, IA relies on first. Thank you to our friends at Johnston Martineau, LLP for their insight into personal injury claims and construction site accidents.