Construction Accidents and Your Legal Rights
Construction is one of the most essential industries in our society, but it’s also one of the most dangerous. From high-rise buildings to residential homes, workers face daily hazards that can result in severe injuries. National Construction Appreciation Week, starting on September 15th, offers an excellent opportunity to honor the hardworking men and women in construction. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the risks that come with the job and understand the legal protections available if an accident occurs.
Common Construction Injuries
Construction sites are dynamic environments where injuries can happen quickly and unexpectedly. Some of the most common injuries reported include:
- Falls from heights
- Being struck by falling objects
- Equipment-related accidents
- Electrocutions
- Exposure to hazardous materials
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
Construction Accident Lawyer David Greene from Greene & Phillips Injury Lawyers says these injuries can range from minor incidents to life-threatening accidents. Whether it’s a slip and fall or being struck by heavy equipment, these cases require serious attention due to the industrial nature of construction work.
OSHA and Construction Site Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) plays a critical role in protecting construction workers by enforcing safety regulations designed to prevent accidents. OSHA requires employers to provide a safe working environment by ensuring proper training, maintaining equipment, and following safety protocols like the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Unfortunately, not all employers or contractors fully comply with OSHA standards, which can lead to avoidable accidents. If an injury occurs due to OSHA violations, it may open the door for additional legal action against the employer or other responsible parties. Greene & Phillips can help investigate whether OSHA standards were violated and determine how that impacts a worker’s compensation claim or potential third-party lawsuit.
Steps to Take After a Construction Injury
If you or someone you know is injured on a construction site, it’s essential to act quickly and correctly:
- Report the Injury: Immediately inform your supervisor about the accident. Ensure that a formal report of the incident is made, and the proper authorities are notified.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the injury you received on the job site seems minor, it’s vital to seek medical care. Construction injuries can sometimes be more severe than they initially appear.
- Document the Incident: Collect as much evidence as possible, including photos of the scene, witness statements, and medical records.
- Consult a Lawyer: Construction injury claims often involve both workers’ compensation and potential third-party claims. Greene & Phillips emphasizes the importance of hiring a local law firm experienced in handling construction accidents to ensure you receive the maximum compensation to cover your medical bills and pain and suffering.
Workers’ Compensation and Beyond
In Alabama, construction site accident workers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if they are injured on the job. These benefits cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and a portion of lost wages. However, many workers are unaware that they may also be eligible for additional compensation through third-party claims. If another party (such as an equipment manufacturer) is found liable for the injury, you may be able to recover further damages beyond workers’ comp.
For example, if you’re injured by faulty equipment, you could file a product liability claim against the manufacturer. Greene & Phillips works closely with clients to investigate every potential angle to ensure all benefits are maximized. Our construction accident attorneys have the experience and proven results to get our clients the best possible result.
Misconceptions About Construction Accidents
There are a few common misconceptions about construction injuries that may prevent workers from seeking the full compensation they deserve:
- “I haven’t worked here long enough to qualify.” Whether you’ve been on the job for years or were just hired for the day, you are entitled to workers’ compensation if you are injured on the job.
- “It’s just workers’ comp.” Many workers think workers’ compensation is the only remedy available. In reality, you may have additional claims depending on the circumstances of your accident.
Contact Greene & Phillips for Legal Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident on the job, it’s essential to contact an experienced local construction injury lawyer. At Greene & Phillips, we have years of experience handling construction injury cases and are ready to help you navigate the complex legal process. Whether it’s filing a workers’ compensation claim or pursuing third-party litigation, we are committed to ensuring our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
For more information, call or text us at 251-300-2000.
full article on Fox10TV.com
