Construction Accidents Take Several Years to Resolve

It is common knowledge that a career in construction is a dangerous one. In fact, in the US alone, more than a thousand deaths and more than half a million injuries happen in the construction industry every year. Even with this fact, a construction worker still has the right to a safe work place. Plus, his family also has the right to ask for compensation when the company and other related parties are proven to have failed in employing basic safety measures. 

In the US, the laws for workers compensation differ from one state to another. For example, in Pennsylvania the employer cannot be held responsible for negligence if the worker receives compensation benefits and agrees with the terms. That is, of course, if the worker was not injured on purpose. If it is found that he was hurt intentionally, he has the right to sue third parties for punitive damages. Third parties may include companies providing faulty equipment, project architects assigned to the job, directly involved engineering firms, subcontractors, and manufacturers of explosive devices. 

What are the common causes of accidents in construction sites? The causes depend on the trade. 

• Ironworkers can get injured from ladder falls and during decking operations and material handling. 

• Masons get hurt when they fall off improperly constructed scaffoldings

• Laborers get into accidents because they basically lack the experience.

• Electricians get injuries with faulty power lines or in lockout-tagout procedures. They also get into accident when working scissor lifts.

• Many construction-related injuries are sustained when workers do not use Proper Protective Equipment (PPE).

What is included in the compensation coverage?

Although worker’s compensation does not intend to make the injured worker whole again, it is very helpful. Compensation benefits cover medical costs and give the injured worker something to make up for the lost wages while under treatment. As payback, the injured employee cannot sue the company directly. 

The following compensation claims are included:

• Coverage for medical bills 

• Coverage for the earning capacity

• Ample financial security for the family in case the victim dies

How can a construction accident lawyer help?

Because the laws governing worker’s compensation differ, it is crucial that you look for a lawyer who is licensed to practice in the state where you work or where you got injured. You have to locate an expert accident lawyer in Morris Heights to sift through the intricacies of construction contracts.  

People who are unfortunate enough to get accident injuries in New York City while on the job could have been operating a vehicle that plies public roads. If this is the case, a vehicle accident lawyer in Westchester is the right attorney to handle the matter. However, the law firms in Kingsbridge say that construction accident litigation can take years to bring to a close. Further, if other cars in involved in the accident, a motor accident lawyer in White Plains could ask for retainer fees because litigation just takes too long. 

3:52 AM Share: