Construction is a tough industry to make a living in. Working on a construction site is certainly not a job for the week among us as it requires physical strength, mental toughness and an ability to recover quickly from physical exertion.
Sadly the line between “tough” and “exploited” is too often blurred or erased. Many construction workers are unaware of their rights or afraid to speak out when they are violated.
In the aftermath of a construction accident, not asserting rights can result in lacking the financial resources necessary to recover and make ends meet for your family. We hope you never need this information, but knowing what your rights are after an accident can make all the difference in the world.
You May Have Multiple Sources of Financial Recovery Available
Workers injured on the job have a right to bring a workers’ compensation claim for medical benefits and lost earnings. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the injury, there may also be a personal injury claim to be made.
If the accident was a result of negligence by a third-party (not the worker or employer) or the injury is considered a “grave injury” such as death, or the loss of a leg, arm, or multiple fingers.
For Safety, The Buck Stops With Property Owners and General Contractors
Everyone on a construction site should be focused on doing the right thing at all times in terms of safety. However, property owners and general contractors are responsible for making sure that safety devices and procedures are in place to protect construction workers. These devices include ladders, properly assembled scaffolds, and harnesses.
Lawyers Are Not All Created Equal
Just as you wouldn’t call an electrician to fix your plumbing, you need to be sure that any lawyer you call is experienced in construction injury cases. Even the smallest missed detail in your case could result in you going without the financial compensation and benefits you and your family deserve.
Finding Ways To Make Ends Meet
The challenge of figuring out how to pay medical bills an other expenses after an accident is compounded by the loss of earnings while an injured worker is unable to work.
There are a number of sources of benefits and compensation that can keep you afloat while your claim is processed. First of all, you can rely on your own health insurance to pay for your medical treatments after an injury.
Workers’ compensation benefits can provide you with the medical coverage you need as well as compensation for lost wages while you are unable to work.
If you file a personal injury claim for your injury, a successful verdict or settlement can result in financial compensation for your lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical costs.
The key to obtaining any of these benefits is making sure you have a knowledgeable, proven lawyer looking out for your interests after an accident.