Workers Compensation and Third-Party Lawsuits for Construction Workers Injured on a Construction Site
A construction worker has a number of options available to him when he gets injured on a construction site. Some of them include workers’ compensation, no-fault, and third-party lawsuits. The latter two are important because they are often used to cover costs associated with a worker’s injuries.
Workers’ compensation
Injuries to construction workers are common and can lead to a loss of wages, permanent disability, and financial hardship. These injuries can be the result of falls from heights, tool malfunctions, and slipping on materials.
There are some legal options for injured construction workers. However, the process can be complicated. You should speak with an attorney before filing a claim.
What happens if I got injured on a construction site due to my own negligence?
Construction employers are often motivated to invest in the health and safety of their employees. This includes providing safety measures on the job site. Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses and a percentage of lost wages.
The construction industry is an important part of the economy. It provides well paying jobs to many previously overlooked groups. But it also can be a dangerous environment. Heavy machinery is a danger and hazardous materials are often used. Moreover, construction jobs often involve working with other contractors and subcontractors.
Injured construction workers can file a lawsuit against their employer, land or project owner, and equipment manufacturers for faulty tools. Alternatively, they may sue for personal injury or wrongful death.
No-fault system
Injuries on a construction site can be very serious. They can be caused by falling objects, defective equipment, or unsafe maintenance of machinery. Luckily, workers’ compensation provides a legal safety net that pays for injuries and lost wages. But, to receive these benefits, you do not need to prove who was at fault in the accident.
This is a major advantage of no-fault systems. The process of filing a claim is simplified. Instead of arguing over blame, the process moves faster and is much less complicated.
If your construction injury is due to a third party’s negligence, you have the right to sue them. For example, you may be able to sue a landowner if the land was not maintained properly or if your employer failed to warn you about a hazard.
Depending on the state in which you live, your injuries may be covered by a no-fault system. In California, for instance, you can get full workers’ compensation benefits if you fall into a trench. However, in some other states, you’ll need to show that you were at fault.
Third-party lawsuits
If you have been injured while working on a construction site, you may be eligible to file a third-party lawsuit against the party responsible. Construction sites are often a busy workplace and injuries can happen in a variety of ways. A car accident can occur, for example, or a ladder can collapse, causing a worker to fall.
Although workers’ compensation provides some benefits, it is not always enough to cover the expenses associated with a work-related injury. Third-party litigation is a way to obtain additional compensation. Injuries can be catastrophic, and require months or years of recovery. Often, a successful third-party case will include money for lost wages, medical costs, and pain and suffering.
You can file a claim against a contractor, a subcontractor, a property owner, or a general contractor. The key is to determine who was liable for the accident. This can be a difficult task, as each party can have different levels of responsibility.
Common locations
Construction sites can be a dangerous place. With so many tools and equipment, there is a lot of opportunity for accidents. While some accidents are minor, others can be fatal. To protect themselves, construction workers should wear safety harnesses and other protective gear.
One of the most common forms of injury on a construction site is a fall. Falls can cause a number of severe injuries including broken bones and brain injuries. The most serious of these injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
A fall on a construction site can also happen from a ladder or scaffolding. Other hazards include falling debris, holes in flooring, and other items that can snag a worker.
In addition to falls, construction workers are at risk of being hit by cars or other vehicles on the job. Traffic accidents can be extremely hazardous for construction workers, who often work long hours in extreme conditions.
If you or a loved one are injured in a construction accident, you may be eligible for compensation. You should contact an experienced attorney, who can review your case and help you get the compensation you deserve.