Construction sites are among the most dangerous working environments. Beyond the physical nature of the work, there are many moving parts and potential hazards. Personal injuries at construction sites are very common. Here are a few things you should know about construction site injuries and your ability to receive compensation.
Common Types of Construction Injuries
Personal injuries at construction sites vary in nature and severity. According to the Occupational Safety & Healthy Administration (OSHA), the most common injuries (in no particular order) are:
- Repetitive Motion Injuries
- Injuries from Lack of Protective Gear
- Electrical Shock
- Scaffolding Malfunctions
- Falls
- Trench Collapses
The resulting types of injuries include anything from chemical exposure to burns, brain/head injuries, broken bones, muscular injuries, and more. Some injuries are short-term while others can be lifelong or life-threatening.
Compensation for Construction Site Injuries
All employers in Massachusetts are required to carry worker’s compensation insurance to cover work-related injuries. Injuries sustained while performing a work-related task should be covered by this policy. It typically includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and disability. In cases where injuries result in loss of life, dependents can be eligible for compensation.
In cases where injuries may result from negligence or other wrongdoing, you may decide to sue your employer. Worker’s compensation does not cover such lawsuits, so this is something you would pursue directly. If other parties, such as suppliers and subcontractors are involved, you may include them in your lawsuit as well.
Legal Help with Lawsuits for Personal Injuries at Construction Sites
Whether you file a worker’s compensation claim and/or file a lawsuit depends on the circumstances of the case. It is important to seek legal counsel before making this decision, although the decision should be made promptly before any statute of limitations expires. Contact us if you’d like to discuss your case. We’ll take the time to review the circumstances surrounding your accident and advise you on how to best proceed. Should you decide to sue, we will help you gather evidence, outline compensation claims, negotiate settlements, and/or litigate your case in a court of law. Although no amount of money may truly be enough to cover the pain and suffering you experience from construction site accidents, receiving compensation can ensure proper medical care and improve your quality of life.