Construction work is one of the most dangerous professions in the United States. Every day, workers face risks on the job site. These include falls from heights, heavy equipment accidents, electrocutions, and collapsing trenches. Because of these dangers, over 200,000 injuries occur each year on construction sites. Of those, 1,000 are fatal.
If you or someone you care about suffers an injury at work, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and what you should do next. This blog explains what you need to know after a job site injury.
What Is a Construction Site Accident?
A construction site accident is an unexpected event that causes injury during construction work. These accidents can happen in many ways, such as:
- Falling from ladders, scaffolds, roofs, or other elevated places
- Being struck or caught in heavy machinery
- Injuries from falling objects
- Getting shocked by electrical wiring or exposure to hazardous chemicals
- Trench collapses trapping or crushing workers underground
By their nature, construction jobs involve many hazards. But, if left unattended or improperly secured, these hazards (like unsafe conditions or defective equipment) can create real and present dangers to workers.
Common Causes of Construction Site Injuries
Knowing the most frequent causes of injuries can help workers stay alert. These include:
- Falls: These are the leading cause of serious injuries and deaths on construction sites. Falls can result from missing guardrails, slippery surfaces, or misuse of equipment like ladders.
- Heavy Machinery Accidents: These injuries happen when machines malfunction or operators make mistakes.
- Falling Objects: When tools, materials, or debris are not secured correctly, they can fall and hit workers below.
- Electrocutions and Hazardous Exposures: Contact with live electrical wires or exposure to chemicals like asbestos can cause severe harm.
- Trench Collapses: Trenches must be properly reinforced. Otherwise, workers risk being buried by collapsing soil.
What You Should Do After an Injury?
Taking the right steps after an injury can save your case and protect your legal rights:
1. Get Medical Help Right Away
Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, get examined by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may worsen if untreated, and medical records will support your legal claim.
2. Report the Injury to Your Employer
Notify your supervisor or employer immediately and make sure the injury is officially recorded. This report is key when filing workers’ compensation claims.
3. Document the Accident Scene
If you are able, take photos of the location, equipment, and conditions that led to the injury. Write down what happened while it’s fresh in your memory. Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
4. Save Any Evidence
Keep any damaged tools, clothing, or equipment related to the incident. This physical evidence may be critical to proving your claim later.
5. Act Quickly Because Time Limits Apply
Legal deadlines for filing claims are strict. In Indiana, you have two years following an incident to make your claim. That may seem like a long time, but if the injury worsens over time, you may end up missing the deadline (or forgetting the injury’s original cause). Missing these deadlines can mean forfeiting your right to compensation.
What You Should Know if You’re Injured on the Job Site
Construction accidents involve complex legal issues. Multiple parties might be responsible, such as your employer, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. Understanding your options can help you get the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost income, and other losses.
Types of Claims You Can File
Workers’ Compensation
This is a no-fault system providing benefits to employees injured on the job. It generally covers medical expenses and some lost wages. However, those benefits might not cover all your damages.
Third-Party Liability Claims
If someone other than your employer caused your injury, you may be able to file a lawsuit for additional compensation. A couple examples would be a subcontractor who used faulty equipment, or a manufacturer of defective machinery,
What Compensation Can You Recover?
You potentially have a right to damages that include:
- Medical bills (past, current, and future treatment costs)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity if your injury limits your ability to work
- Pain and suffering caused by your injury
- Permanent disability or impairment benefits
- Wrongful death damages in the tragic event of a fatal injury
Why Hire Foley & Murphy for Your Construction Injury Case?
When it comes to construction accidents, Foley & Murphy offer unmatched experience:
- Years of dedicated experience
- Millions of dollars recovered for our clients
- Thorough investigations. Leaving no stone unturned
- Seek expert witnesses to prove liability and damages
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
- Trial-ready lawyers if cases must be taken to court
We understand the challenges injured workers face. It can be complicated navigating legal procedures to dealing with insurance adjusters. Our mission is to fight fiercely on your behalf so you can focus on recovery.
Foley & Murphy. Fighting For You.
Getting hurt on a construction site is a serious matter with possibly lifelong consequences. Knowing how to respond right after an injury and understanding your legal options are critical to protecting your future.
If you or a family member has suffered a construction site injury, contact Foley & Murphy for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will explain your rights and help you fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to face this difficult process alone. With Foley & Murphy by your side, you have a trusted legal team committed to your recovery and justice.
