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It's no question that construction work plays a significant role economically in the United States. In most major cities, everywhere you look, some form of construction takes place. However, we may not see the risk construction workers face daily. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry is home to some of the most dangerous jobs. Many injured construction workers may not realize their right to file a workers' compensation claim.
Workers Compensation
Construction workers who are injured on the job may pursue financial compensation by filing for workers' comp. This system is set in place for people who suffer from on-the-job injuries and offers almost-guaranteed compensation to help pay for medical bills and cover lost wages. Filing a workers' compensation claim prohibits the injured worker from filing a lawsuit regardless of whether the employer or anyone else was at fault.
Third-Party Construction Accident Claims
Workers giving up their right to file a lawsuit for quick and almost-guaranteed compensation amounts is known as "the grand bargain" of the worker's comp system. However, depending on the state and the circumstances of the injury, the injured worker may still be able to file a lawsuit over the accident if:
- One of the parties responsible for the accident isn't the employer
- The injury is a result of the employer's intentional misconduct
- The employer denied the worker's compensation claim in bad faith
- The injury is a result of the employer's gross negligence
- The employer didn't have workers' compensation insurance coverage
Coverage
In most cases, the injured worker could likely recover:
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Lost wages
- Reimbursement for medical expenses
- Punitive damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
Construction Related Injuries
When working on construction sites, a few injuries are more commonly seen than others. These include:
- Falls
- Struck by falling objects
- Electrocution
- Back injuries
- Burns
- Getting crushed or run over
Workers aren't the only people who can suffer from construction-related injuries. Non-construction workers, including pedestrians who just so happened to end up on the worksite, wandering children, or drivers traveling through a road construction zone, are also a part of the category of people who could be injured. Legal actions may differ depending on who is injured. For example, if a construction worker is suffering from an injury, they may be eligible to seek worker's compensation. If a non-worker is suffering from a construction injury, they would likely benefit from filing a personal injury claim.
Contact a Lawyer
If you or someone you know has suffered from a construction site-related injury, you may be entitled to compensation. Here at Emery Reddy Serious Injury Department, we have the skill required to fight a case just like you. Contact one of our award-winning attorneys to discuss the details of your case and better understand your legal rights. We want to help.
Call us today (206) 202-2562 at or visit us online and fill out a form to schedule your free consultation.